The Politician

The Politician centers on Payton Hobart, a driven and ambitious teenager who has been set on a path to the presidency since he was a child. With unwavering confidence and a meticulously crafted plan, Payton views his high school years as the crucial battlefield where his future political career will be forged. Portrayed by Ben Platt, Payton's character balances charm, wit, and strategic thinking as he navigates the complexities of adolescent life.

Amidst the competitive environment of high school politics, Payton must deal with rival candidates, unexpected obstacles, and personal challenges that test his determination and values. Alongside him, characters such as Dede Standish, played by Judith Light, provide guidance and support while contributing to the intricate political drama unfolding within their community.

As the show progresses, viewers are treated to a satirical and insightful look into the world of ambition, power, and the often absurd realities of political maneuvering. The Politician blends humor with moments of sincerity, offering a fresh perspective on what it means to pursue leadership and influence from a young age.

Main Cast of The Politician

Fans of Ben Platt will find much to enjoy in his role in the TV series 'The Politician,' where he plays Payton Hobart, an ambitious high school student determined to become president of the United States. This role allows Platt to showcase his acting range beyond musical theater, blending dramatic intensity with sharp comedic timing. Comparing it to his most iconic performance as Evan Hansen in the Broadway musical 'Dear Evan Hansen,' where he portrayed a socially anxious teenager struggling with isolation and grief, 'The Politician' offers a different kind of character: confident, scheming, and outwardly charismatic, yet still complex and layered. An interesting and unexpected detail about his character is that despite Payton's polished and manipulative exterior, he harbors vulnerabilities that align with Platt's strength in conveying emotional depth, offering fans a nuanced and compelling performance that diverges from his musical roots while maintaining his emotional authenticity.

In 'The Politician,' Judith Light delivers a compelling performance as Dede Standish, embodying a sharp, politically savvy figure with a blend of wit and intensity that anchors the show's satirical tone. Compared to her earlier roles, such as the empathetic Karen Foxworth in 'Who's the Boss?' or the resilient Estelle in 'Transparent,' Light's portrayal of Dede showcases her versatility by delving into the darker, more complex facets of political ambition. A trivia fact about Judith Light is that she is also a Tony Award-winning stage actress, highlighting her wide-ranging talents beyond television.

Lucy Boynton played the role of Alice Charles in the TV series 'The Politician.' Her performance was widely praised for its nuanced portrayal of a socially conscious and politically engaged high school student, which brought depth and authenticity to the show's ensemble cast. What made her performance unique was her ability to balance the character's idealism with vulnerability, creating a relatable and compelling figure amidst the show's satirical backdrop. A lesser-known fact about her involvement is that Boynton initially connected deeply with the script because of the show's exploration of youthful ambition, and she often collaborated closely with the creators to develop her character's arc, leading to subtle improvisations that enriched the final scenes.

Zoey Deutch delivers a captivating and nuanced performance as Infinity Jackson in the TV series 'The Politician,' showcasing her ability to embody complex characters with charm and depth. Unlike some of her earlier roles, which leaned more towards youthful romantic leads, Infinity is a layered character that allows Deutch to explore darker emotional territories and sharp wit, highlighting her versatility as an actress. A trivia fact: Zoey Deutch is the daughter of acclaimed director Howard Deutch, which adds an interesting dimension to her understanding of the industry and character portrayal.

Bob Balaban delivers a nuanced performance as Keaton Hobart in 'The Politician,' embodying a shrewd and manipulative political operator with a subtle blend of charm and menace. Unlike his often more affable or quirky roles in films like 'Gosford Park' or 'Waiting for Guffman,' Balaban's portrayal here is darker and more complex, showcasing his versatility as an actor. An interesting trivia fact is that Bob Balaban is not only an actor but also a director and producer, known for his work behind the scenes on projects like 'Gosford Park,' which won an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.

Julia Schlaepfer played the role of Alice Charles in the TV series 'The Politician.' This character is a complex and intriguing figure whose interactions with the protagonist add significant depth to the storyline. The role showcased Schlaepfer's ability to portray nuanced emotional states and brought a fresh dimension to her acting portfolio. Compared to her earlier or more recognized work, this performance stood out due to its blend of subtlety and intensity, allowing her to demonstrate a wider range of dramatic skills and gain greater visibility within the industry.

Crew of The Politician