The West Wing

A closer look at the story

The West Wing takes viewers behind the scenes of presidential politics in the capital of the United States. Following the people who make up a fictional administration, the series offers a close look at both the working and the personal lives of the people running the country. President Josiah Bartlet and the team around him must make tough decisions, handle crises and debate ideas with one another day after day. What makes these characters so compelling is their deep devotion to their work and the sense of humour they keep even in the tensest moments. The political issues discussed on the show are never left as distant, abstract matters; they connect directly to problems that affect the daily lives of ordinary people. Characters such as Leo McGarry, C.J. Cregg, Josh Lyman and Donna Moss represent different sides of the administration. Created by Aaron Sorkin and broadcast on NBC from 1999, running to seven seasons and 154 episodes, the political drama stars Martin Sheen, Allison Janney, John Spencer and Bradley Whitford.