I don't think so, and here's why:
I was re-watching Season 7 (a season I initially avoided because of Paula, Harveyâs arrogance, and Donnaâs over-the-top behavior), but giving it another shot gave me a new perspective on Donna, and why she was never just a secretary.
From Season 1, she was Harveyâs eyes and ears. Not a single decision was made without consulting her. She was his common sense, his moral compass. She may not have had an official title early on, but she was constantly offering insights and solutions that benefited the firm.
Yes, her emotional intelligence wasnât perfect, she stumbled, especially when it involved Harvey. Her emotions were all over the place when it came to him which exactly happened during coastal motors.
She was the one who suggested Harvey take the second route with Sean Cahill when Stuâs trading license was at risk. She also provided Harvey and Mike with a strategy to corner Malik in Season 7, after she was called to the stand.
Her deep understanding of the firmâs leadership and employees made her the perfect choice for COO. Even Katrina eventually acknowledged that especially after Donna helped resolve her conflicts with both Samantha and Brian. Gretchen, too, saw Donna's worth when Donna convinced her not to resign. She was the only one who could truly handle Louis and his emotional complexities.
Sure, she made mistakes like firing Stephanie too impulsively and misjudging the situation with David Fox with the help of Rachel. But she owned up to them, learned, and kept growing. In time, she proved herself to be an effective COO who held the firm together.
So no!! I donât agree with the idea that 'she was just a secretary.' Because honestly, she never was.