The new political thriller Deep State offers a gripping exploration of the covert world operating beneath the surface of global politics. Created by Matthew Parkhill and starring Mark Strong, the series delves into the intricate web of espionage, power, and personal conflict that defines the elusive "deep state" phenomenon. In an exclusive insight into the making of the show, Parkhill and Strong reveal the origins, themes, and moral dilemmas that drive this compelling drama.

From Concept to Screen: The Birth of Deep State

Originally, the show was conceived under the title Benign, focusing on nine operatives over the course of a season. However, Parkhill’s inspiration took a sharp political turn after reading about the Texas-based engineering firm KBR, which profited massively from reconstruction contracts during the Iraq war. This sparked a provocative idea: what if such corporations infiltrated intelligence agencies to manipulate conflicts for profit? The concept reflects real-world complexities where defense contractors build weapons and then secure contracts to rebuild the very targets they helped destroy.

The political underpinnings of the series blend with a deeply personal story centered on Mark Strong’s character, Max Easton—a former spy caught in a moral quandary. Torn between his old family and a newly forged one, Max is compelled to confront the shadows of his past as his illicit world threatens his second chance at normalcy. This dual narrative, combining geopolitical intrigue with intimate human drama, forms the heart of Deep State.

Unpacking the “Deep State”

Contrary to popular belief, the term "deep state" did not originate in recent political rhetoric but was first coined in Turkey in 1996 amid political turmoil and intelligence conflicts. It describes a covert network of intelligence services, defense contractors, and other power players operating beneath the democratic government, maintaining influence regardless of elected officials. The show uses this concept as a lens to explore how continuity of power often resides beyond public view, manifesting through secret alliances and betrayals.

Parkhill emphasizes that while Deep State is fiction, it remains grounded in real-world dynamics. The series benefits from consultancy with former MI6 operatives to maintain authenticity, reinforcing that some plot elements closely mirror actual operations, albeit dramatized for storytelling. This realism sets the show apart from more fantastical spy dramas, presenting a believable and nuanced portrait of espionage.

Character Complexity and Moral Ambiguity

Mark Strong’s portrayal of Max Easton embodies the moral and ethical tensions at the series’ core. A man haunted by his past actions and the lives he has taken, Max struggles with the cost of his profession and what it means to protect both his secretive work and his family. The show doesn’t shy away from depicting the personal toll of espionage, underscoring the sacrifices made away from the public eye.

Strong points out that the richness of the spy world lies in its combination of danger, betrayal, and trust—all essential ingredients for engaging drama. Unlike the glamorized fantasies of spy fiction, Deep State presents a grounded, emotionally resonant story where characters’ conflicts and vulnerabilities are as compelling as the political intrigue driving the plot.

Narrative Ambition and Influences

One of the show’s strengths is its multi-layered storytelling that spans locations and timelines, mainly set between London, Washington, and Beirut. Parkhill cites films such as Syriana as major inspirations, admiring their capacity to combine broad political narratives with intimate human stories. Deep State similarly balances fast-paced action sequences with quieter moments that allow character development and emotional depth to unfold.

The series also explores themes of redemption and second chances, particularly through Max’s relationships with his son and estranged wife. These personal storylines humanize the world of espionage, reminding viewers that behind every covert operation are individuals grappling with universal questions about family, loyalty, and forgiveness.

A New Era of Intelligent Thrillers

Both Parkhill and Strong acknowledge the evolving landscape of television, where streaming platforms and on-demand services have transformed how audiences engage with content. This democratization of viewing has enabled the creation of more ambitious, complex narratives like Deep State. The show’s maturity and intelligence reflect a shift towards “painting on a bigger canvas,” inspired by groundbreaking series such as The Sopranos and Six Feet Under.

For viewers seeking a thriller that combines political relevance with emotional resonance, Deep State offers a fresh perspective on the shadows that shape our world. It’s a story not just about deep political machinations but about the profound impact these unseen forces have on real people and their lives.

Deep State premiered as a timely and thought-provoking exploration of espionage’s hidden depths, brought to life by Matthew Parkhill’s insightful creation and Mark Strong’s powerful performance. Together, they invite audiences to peer inside the shadows and confront the uneasy truths lurking beneath the surface of global power.