🪶 Story & Synopsis
In the thrilling political drama “Designated Survivor,” Kiefer Sutherland takes center stage as Thomas Kirkman, an unassuming U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development who unexpectedly finds himself catapulted into the role of President of the United States after a devastating attack wipes out the existing administration during the State of the Union address.
As the designated survivor for such catastrophic events, Kirkman must navigate the treacherous waters of Washington politics, dealing with both internal and external threats while grappling with his own lack of experience in the highest office in the land.
With a fast-paced narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, “Designated Survivor” delves into the complexities of governance, power struggles, and the personal sacrifices required to lead a nation in crisis.
Throughout the series, Kirkman faces numerous challenges, including uncovering sinister plots, battling against formidable adversaries like the cunning Patrick Lloyd, and making tough decisions that test his moral compass and leadership abilities.
Supported by a talented cast including Natascha McElhone as Alex Kirkman, Adan Canto as Aaron Shore, Italia Ricci as Emily Rhodes, LaMonica Garrett as Mike Ritter, and Kal Penn as Seth Wright, the show weaves a gripping narrative of political intrigue, betrayal, and redemption.
With its blend of action, suspense, and emotional depth, “Designated Survivor” captivates audiences as it explores the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity and the enduring power of hope in the most challenging of circumstances.
🧑 Cast & Crew
Kiefer Sutherland, Natascha McElhone, Maggie Q, Kal Penn, Adan Canto, Italia Ricci, LaMonica Garrett, Tanner Buchanan, Ben Lawson, Paulo Costanzo, Zoe McLellan
| Actor | Role |
|---|---|
| Kiefer Sutherland | Thomas Kirkman |
| Natascha McElhone | Alex Kirkman |
| Adan Canto | Aaron Shore |
| Italia Ricci | Emily Rhodes |
| LaMonica Garrett | Mike Ritter |
| Tanner Buchanan | Leo Kirkman |
| Kal Penn | Seth Wright |
| Maggie Q | Hannah Wells |
| Jake Epstein | Chuck Russink |
| Paulo Costanzo | Lyor Boone |
| Zoe McLellan | Kendra Daynes |
| Ben Lawson | Damian Rennett |
💬 Reviews and feedback
Welcome to the thrilling world of “Designated Survivor,” where political intrigue meets high-stakes drama faster than a politician can flip-flop on a policy! This show has more twists and turns than a rollercoaster designed by a conspiracy theorist, and it’s leaving viewers on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting the next move.
Let’s dive into this rollercoaster ride of a TV series that has captured audience attention with its mix of action, drama, and stellar performances.
Plot and Themes:
The plot of “Designated Survivor” is as intense as a presidential election in a tiebreaker situation. With its focus on political turmoil, government conspiracies, and personal sacrifices, the show keeps you hooked from start to finish. The themes explored in the series are timely and thought-provoking, reflecting real-world concerns about power dynamics and leadership under pressure.
Acting and Characters:
- Kiefer Sutherland shines like a polished diamond in his role as the accidental President, delivering one of his career-best performances. His portrayal of a reluctant leader thrust into chaos is both compelling and authentic.
- The supporting cast adds depth to the narrative, bringing their A-game to each episode. Their interactions and conflicts enhance the overall viewing experience, making you emotionally invest in their fates.
Direction and Cinematography:
The direction of “Designated Survivor” is as sharp as a well-tailored suit in Washington D.C. Each scene is meticulously crafted to build tension and suspense, keeping viewers glued to their screens. The cinematography captures the essence of political intrigue with its sweeping shots and intimate close-ups, creating a visually engaging experience.
Production Design and Special Effects:
The production design of the series immerses you in the world of politics with its detailed sets and authentic locations. From the Oval Office to secret bunkers, every aspect feels realistic and immersive. The special effects add an extra layer of excitement, especially during high-stakes action sequences that will leave you breathless.
Editing, Pace, and Dialog:
- The editing keeps the narrative tight and focused, ensuring that each episode delivers maximum impact without unnecessary filler.
- The pace of the show is as brisk as a White House press briefing, moving swiftly between plot points while still allowing for character development.
- The dialog crackles with wit and tension, reflecting the high-stakes nature of political maneuvering. Sharp one-liners and impassioned speeches keep you engaged throughout.
Binge-watching Tips:
If you’re planning to binge-watch “Designated Survivor,” make sure you have plenty of snacks on hand because once you start watching, you won’t want to pause for even a minute! Also, keep track of all the intricate plot details to fully appreciate the twists and turns this show has to offer.
Now it’s time for my rating: I’d give “Designated Survivor” an electrifying 8/10! This show packs enough political punches to rival any real-life scandal while keeping you entertained from start to finish. So grab your popcorn, settle into your favorite armchair – it’s time for some presidential drama!
In conclusion: With its gripping storyline, stellar performances, and pulse-pounding suspense,”Designated Survivor” is a must-watch for anyone craving an adrenaline-fueled journey through the halls of power. So tune in now – who knows what secrets will be uncovered next?
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Strong supporting cast | High turnover of showrunners |
| Smart and well-written plot | Declining ratings |
| Engaging subject matter | Anti-climactic ending |
| Kiefer Sutherland’s exceptional performance | Long build-up |
| Realistic portrayal of U.S. politics | Flawed and cynical fiction |
| Compelling political intrigue | Some viewers may find it not for everyone |
| High-quality pilot episode | Season 2 becoming a little boring |
| Interesting and timely premise | Squandered potential in pilot episode |
Feedback
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Designated Survivor (TV series) - Wikipedia
Designated Survivor(TV series)
Designated Survivor Genre Created by David Guggenheim Starring Theme music composer Composers - Sean Callery
- Robert Lydecker
- Paul Leonard-Morgan
Country of origin United States Original language English No. of seasons 3 No. of episodes 53 (list of episodes) Production Executive producers - Mark Gordon
- Nicholas Pepper
- Jeff Melvoin
- Jon Harmon Feldman
- Kiefer Sutherland
- Suzan Bymel
- Paul McGuigan
- Amy Harris
- Aditya Sood
- David Guggenheim
- Simon Kinberg
- Neal Baer
Producers - Richard Klein
- Ann Kindberg
- Tommy Burns
Production locations Cinematography - M. David Mullen
- David A. Harp
Editor Michael Schweitzer Camera setup Single-camera Running time 42 minutes (seasons 1–2) 46–53 minutes (season 3)
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Designated Survivor (TV Series 2016-2019) - IMDb
SPONSOREDA low-level Cabinet member becomes President of the United States after a catastrophic attack kills everyone above him in the line of succession.A low-level Cabinet member becomes President of the United States after a catastrophic attack kills everyone above him in the line of succession.A low-level Cabinet member becomes President of the United States after a catastrophic attack kills everyone above him in the line of succession.
- Awards
- 3 wins & 3 nominations
Browse episodesSPONSORED
- Awards
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Designated Survivor (TV Series 2016-2019) - Episode list - IMDb
Wed, Apr 5, 2017
As President Kirkman releases an agenda to reset his presidency, Alex makes a controversial public statement that threatens to derail it. Meanwhile, FBI agent Hannah Wells unknowingly finds herself in the center of a dangerous trap while getting closer to the truth. While the country still mourns the loss of their Vice President.
Wed, Apr 19, 2017
As President Kirkman struggles to put together a new Supreme Court, FBI Agent Hannah Wells goes undercover and discovers much more than she ever could have imagined. Meanwhile, Seth Wright has to contend with journalist Abe Leonard, who returns from the Middle East with an explosive story.
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Designated Survivor: Season 1 | Rotten Tomatoes
Kiefer Sutherland skillfully delivers the drama inDesignated Survivor, a fast-paced, quickly engrossing escapist political action fantasy.
Season 1 – Designated SurvivorWhere to WatchDesignated Survivor — Season 1
Watch Designated Survivor — Season 1 with a subscription on Netflix, or buy it on Fandango at Home, Prime Video, Apple TV.
What to KnowCritics ReviewsAudience ReviewsMy RatingCast & Crew
Kiefer SutherlandTom KirkmanNatascha McElhoneAlex KirkmanAdan CantoAaron ShoreItalia RicciEmily RhodesLaMonica GarrettMike RitterKal PennSeth Wright
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Designated Survivor - streaming tv show online - JustWatch
Designated Survivor – watch online: streaming, buy or rent
Currently you are able to watch “Designated Survivor” streaming on Netflix, Netflix basic with Ads or buy it as download on Amazon Video, Apple TV, Vudu, Google Play Movies.Watch NowCCHDTV-PG3 Seasons -44min – English, French, Italian, Spanish, GermanSubscription$6.99 / monthCC4KTV-PG3 Seasons -44min – English, German, French, Italian, SpanishSubscription$15.49 / monthWatch similar TV shows on Apple TV+ for free7 Days FreeThen $9.99 / monthCCHDTV-PG3 Seasons -44minBuy$57.57
⚠️ Explanation (Spoiler)
In the Season 3 finale of Designated Survivor, the show presents a gripping ethical dilemma for President Tom Kirkman. As the election day approaches, Kirkman faces a tough decision when his campaign aide Emily Rhodes uncovers an illegally recorded phone call that exposes a sinister bio-terror attack plot orchestrated by Republican contender Cornelius Moss’s strategist. The call implies Moss’s involvement in a scheme to decrease the country’s minority population through sterilization.
The tension escalates as Kirkman is about to address the press, where he is expected to denounce Moss based on the information from the recorded call. However, despite being handed the incriminating evidence by Emily, Kirkman chooses not to act on it. This decision leaves viewers questioning Kirkman’s motives and ethical stance.
Kirkman justifies his inaction by expressing doubts about the authenticity of the recording and the potential political manipulation behind its release. He debates internally about the repercussions of accusing Moss without concrete proof. Kirkman argues that Moss may not have been directly involved in the genocidal plan but was complicit by associating with individuals known for their extremist views and receiving financial support from them.
The President’s reluctance to confront Moss stems from a belief that Moss’s campaign was built on deception and manipulation of conservative voters rather than genuine principles. Kirkman struggles with his desire to win the election and the moral implications of using potentially dubious information against his opponent.
The season finale leaves the audience questioning Kirkman’s integrity and political tactics. Was Kirkman’s decision to withhold the damning evidence a strategic move to secure his victory, or was it a moral failure on his part? The ambiguity surrounding Kirkman’s actions sets the stage for a thought-provoking debate among viewers about the complexities of political leadership and personal ethics in the face of power struggles.
👪 Parents Guide & Age Rating
TV-MA
Age Rating:
Designated Survivor TV show has different ratings based on the platform it is viewed on. When aired on ABC, the series was rated TV-14 with some episodes having a TV-PG rating. However, when Netflix took over for the third and final season, it was rated TV-MA.
Parental Guide:
Parents should be aware that Designated Survivor is a political drama that revolves around a government official who unexpectedly becomes President after a catastrophic attack. The show contains mild profanity with words like “asses” and “hell” being used. Additionally, there are scenes depicting the aftermath of an explosion, showing buildings in cinders and fire, but with no bodies, blood, or gore.
While the first two seasons are considered family-friendly with engaging storylines suitable for mature tweens and viewers above the age of 12, parents should exercise caution with season 3, especially on Netflix, as it introduces increased levels of language and sexuality, including a sudden sex scene in episode 3. Therefore, parental discretion is advised for younger audiences.
📺 Streaming and where to watch
| streaming service | extra information |
|---|---|
| Netflix | You can watch Designated Survivor streaming on Netflix. |
| Amazon Video | You can buy Designated Survivor as a download on Amazon Video. |
| Apple TV | You can buy Designated Survivor as a download on Apple TV. |
| Vudu | You can buy Designated Survivor as a download on Vudu. |
| Google Play Movies | You can buy Designated Survivor as a download on Google Play Movies. |
❝ Quotes and Cult
We're defined by how we respond to them.
When your ship's taking on water, you don't jump, you grab a bucket.
What's on the paper, that tells a story that we want to tell. But what's not on the paper, that's what people remember.
Without truth, there can be no trust.
🤖Designated Survivor Reddit Talks
Designated Survivor: A Show with Intrigue and Controversy
Designated Survivor, a political drama television series, has garnered a significant following on Reddit, where users engage in lively discussions about the show’s plot, characters, and social commentary.
Cancellation and Revival Rumors
One of the most discussed topics on Reddit is the abrupt cancellation of Designated Survivor by ABC after two seasons. Fans were left disappointed and eager for answers, especially given the show’s complex storylines and unresolved cliffhangers. Shortly after the cancellation, rumors emerged that other networks, including Netflix, were interested in reviving the show. These discussions continue to fuel hope among fans that Designated Survivor may return for future seasons.
Hannah’s Controversial Death
The death of Hannah Wells, a fan-favorite character played by Maggie Q, sparked heated debates on Reddit. Hannah’s untimely demise, caused by exposure to a poisonous gas that specifically targeted people of color, was seen by some as a powerful statement on racial injustice. However, others criticized the decision, arguing that it was unnecessary and disrespectful to the character’s legacy.
Real-Life Designated Survivor
The show’s premise, which revolves around a low-ranking cabinet member becoming president after a catastrophic event, has led to discussions about the real-life role of the designated survivor. Reddit users have speculated on who might be chosen as the designated survivor in the event of a national emergency, with some suggesting that the position should be more transparent and accountable to the public.
Spin-Off Possibilities
The potential for a Designated Survivor spin-off has also been a topic of conversation on Reddit. Fans have proposed various ideas, including a prequel focusing on Tom Kirkman’s early days as president or a standalone series following the adventures of other characters from the show. However, no official plans for a spin-off have been announced.
Critical Reception
The overall critical reception of Designated Survivor has been mixed. Some Reddit users praise the show’s engaging plotlines, strong performances, and thought-provoking themes. Others criticize the show’s uneven writing, occasional predictability, and lack of originality. Despite the differing opinions, Designated Survivor remains a popular topic of discussion on Reddit, with fans eagerly awaiting news of its possible revival.
Top discussions
- https://www.reddit.com/r/DesignatedSurvivor/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/television/comments/r4ijmy/whats_your_opinion_on_designated_survivor/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/television/comments/12aqhis/designated_survivor/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/television/comments/jo5wdy/season_3_of_designated_survivor_might_be_one_of/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/television/comments/byiilf/designated_survivor_is_a_different_better_series/
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the abrupt end of Designated Survivor?
Designated Survivor was canceled by ABC after two seasons due to a high turnover of showrunners and declining ratings. However, there were talks to revive the show on other networks like Netflix.
Was Designated Survivor well-received?
Designated Survivor was praised for being a blend of action and drama, with Kiefer Sutherland delivering one of the best performances of his career. The pilot episode was particularly lauded for its excellence.
Is the concept of Designated Survivor realistic?
Yes, the term “Designated Survivor” is real and exists in U.S. politics as a precautionary measure to secure a cabinet member in case of a catastrophe during events like State of the Union addresses.
Why did Hannah have to leave Designated Survivor?
Hannah’s character was killed off after she uncovered a hidden biolab and was exposed to poisonous gas targeting individuals of color, resulting in a dramatic and harrowing exit for the fan-favorite character.
Who is the main antagonist in Designated Survivor?
Patrick Lloyd is the main villain in Designated Survivor, serving as the overarching antagonist throughout the series.
What happened to Mike Ritter in Designated Survivor?
Mike Ritter did not appear in Season 3 of Designated Survivor due to budget and creative changes. It is uncertain if he will return to the show after his absence in that season.
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Wallpapers & Media
🔥 Audience Trends
