Ronnie’s Fate in The Diplomat: What You Need to Know

The highly anticipated Season 2 of The Diplomat has arrived, bringing with it Ambassador Kate Wyler’s quest to uncover the truth behind the attack on HMS Courageous. Fans are also eager to remember the dramatic conclusion of Season 1, particularly regarding the fate of Ronnie Buckhurst.

When it premiered in 2023, The Diplomat quickly became a sleeper hit on Netflix. The series chronicles the challenges faced by Kate, the U.S. ambassador to the United Kingdom, as she navigates her new responsibilities, secures pivotal alliances, and attempts to mitigate a serious international crisis—all while managing her outspoken husband, who previously held her position.

The cliffhanger ending of Season 1 left audiences in shock: Prime Minister Nicol Trowbridge appeared to orchestrate the attack on the British warship, and a devastating car bomb explosion almost resulted in Kate becoming a widow.

As new characters, including Allison Janney’s portrayal of the U.S. Vice President, join the mix in the binge-worthy series, it’s understandable if you need a refresher on prior events.

Who is Ronnie in The Diplomat?

Ronnie Buckhurst, played by Jess Chanliau, served as a foreign service officer under Stuart Hayford, the Chief of Mission at the UK embassy, alongside Kate in Season 1. While fulfilling the role of an office clerk, Ronnie aided in various diplomatic tasks but became collateral damage during the intense finale.

Ronnie in The Diplomat Season 1 — Netflix

What happened to Ronnie?

Tragically, Ronnie fell victim to the explosive car bomb aimed at Tory Member of Parliament Merritt Grove in the gripping Season 1 finale. Ronnie’s fate was sealed in a desperate moment when Grove sought an urgent meeting with Kate’s husband, Hal—stirring Kate’s anger and igniting underlying tensions.

Against her wishes, Hal met with Grove’s demands, prompting Kate to send Stuart and Ronnie in his place. When they arrived, Grove, frustrated, abruptly left for his vehicle, which detonated as he entered, resulting in his immediate death.

Stuart and Hal managed to escape with their lives, but the explosion severely injured Ronnie. In the opening of Season 2, the medical team fights desperately to save Ronnie’s life. Despite their best efforts during a grueling 10-hour surgery, Ronnie ultimately succumbs to his injuries, leaving Kate and Stuart heartbroken.

Ronnie's body in The Diplomat Season 2 — Netflix

In an interview with TV Line, creator Debora Cahn disclosed that the decision to kill off Ronnie was intentional from the start. She stated, “In this line of work, colleagues often don’t survive. It’s dangerous, and I wanted Kate and Hal’s backstory to reflect choices that lead to tragic outcomes.” This loss not only tests the relationship between Kate and Hal but also shapes Kate’s understanding of her own role and responsibilities.

Seasons 1 and 2 of The Diplomat are currently streaming on Netflix. In the meantime, viewers can explore other exciting series available this month, including updates on Squid Game Season 2, Wednesday Season 2, and Stranger Things Season 5.

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