"Zero Day" on Netflix got advice from D.C. operatives
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Eric Schultz — a political adviser to former President Obama, and former White House principal deputy press secretary and Senate aide — is credited on-screen as a political consultant for the new Netflix political thriller, "Zero Day," starring Robert De Niro.
Why it matters: Schultz spent several weeks on-set for filming of White House and congressional scenes — advising the director, actors and crew on production, including set design, costumes, props, dialogue and blocking.
De Niro portrays a former U.S. president reckoning with a major cyberattack.
- Axios and its morning newsletter, Axios AM, get a shout-out in Episode 1.
- Jeremy Bash of Beacon Global Strategies also consulted.
Behind the scenes: Schultz advised on the energy and dynamics of the real Oval Office and briefing room — showing how reporters all scream over each other. and how officials respond to the barrage of questions.
- Pro tip: He warned not to make the reporters look too polished — only the network correspondents in the front row usually look camera-ready.
Schultz told me: "The series is terrifying because of how real it feels."
- Schultz has also served as a political consultant to Netflix's "Designated Survivor" reboot, HBO's "Succession" and A24's "Civil War."
🎥 You're invited: At 6pm ET in D.C. Wednesday evening, Axios is hosting "Zero Day" screening and conversation about enhancing U.S. cybersecurity. RSVP here.
