Donna Moss (The West Wing)

Janel Moloney is Donnatella Moss at The West Wing.

Bradley Whitford played the Deputy Chief of Staff Josh Lyman at The West Wing. As his assistant Janel Moloney as Donnatella Moss was only credited as a guest star despite appearing in all episodes the first season. Starting out I suspect Aaron Sorkin didn't have any larger plans for this character than he had for others assistants or secretaries like Margaret, Carol and Bonnie. When the second season started no-one was surprised to find Janel among the intro-credits as Donna grew into an important part of the West Wing ensemble during their first season.

In the first episodes Donna is used as a prop to explain political stands with those classic West Wing walk-and-talk conversations with Josh. From the beginning its easy to notice how well Bradley Whitford and Janel Moloney captures their scenes together. Sorkin must have noticed it early as well, as their chemistry is relayed on to make some of the more interesting political storylines quite early in the series.

Josh Lyman and Donna Moss

As seasons pass by Donna grows as a more and more important part of the Bartlet's White House-staff and her assignments slowly grows in importance as well. She never reaches the level of importance for the show as President Bartlet, Josh Lyman, Toby Ziegler, Leo McGarry and C.J. Cregg, but Janel makes this supporting role one of the more memorable long time supports I've ever seen in any show. She's no doubt one of my favorite supporting roles at least.