The last episode of Designated Survivor aired on September 5, 2018, on ABC (for seasons 1 & 2) and August 1, 2019, on Netflix (for season 3). While initially canceled by ABC after its second season, Netflix revived the series for a third and final season before ultimately deciding not to renew it.
Understanding the Designated Survivor Timeline
Designated Survivor resonated with audiences due to its compelling premise: a low-level cabinet member suddenly thrust into the presidency after a catastrophic attack on the U.S. Capitol. The series explored themes of political maneuvering, national security, and personal sacrifice, capturing a dedicated fanbase. However, the show’s journey to the screen and its eventual cancellation involved several key phases.
ABC Seasons 1 & 2: Initial Success and Cancellation
The show debuted on ABC in September 2016 to strong ratings and critical acclaim. Kiefer Sutherland’s portrayal of President Tom Kirkman quickly became a central draw, and the show was praised for its timely themes. Despite solid performance, ABC canceled Designated Survivor after two seasons, citing declining ratings and creative differences.
Netflix Season 3: Revival and Final Chapter
Netflix recognized the show’s potential and acquired the rights, greenlighting a third season that aired in June 2019. This season saw Kirkman navigate the complexities of campaigning for president while facing ethical dilemmas. While generally well-received, Netflix announced in July 2019 that it would not be renewing Designated Survivor for a fourth season, citing high production costs and challenges with scheduling. This marked the definitive end of the series.
Frequently Asked Questions About Designated Survivor
These FAQs address common queries about the series’ cancellation, cast, availability, and potential future.
FAQ 1: Why Was Designated Survivor Canceled by ABC?
ABC’s cancellation stemmed from a combination of factors. While the show initially performed well, ratings declined in the second season. Behind-the-scenes creative changes and budgetary constraints also contributed to the decision. ABC likely saw better opportunities in other projects and opted not to renew the series.
FAQ 2: Why Did Netflix Cancel Designated Survivor After One Season?
Netflix cited production costs and scheduling conflicts as the primary reasons for its cancellation after the third season. Shows with high production values, especially those requiring a large ensemble cast and complex set designs, can become expensive to produce. Additionally, aligning the schedules of all the actors can be challenging. Netflix likely weighed the cost against the viewership and decided that a fourth season wasn’t financially viable.
FAQ 3: Will There Ever Be a Designated Survivor Season 4?
As of today, there are no confirmed plans for a fourth season of Designated Survivor. While never say never, the chances are extremely slim. The show has been canceled twice, and the cast members have moved on to other projects. Reviving a series after so many years and after it has been definitively concluded on multiple platforms is a complex and expensive undertaking.
FAQ 4: Where Can I Watch Designated Survivor?
Designated Survivor is currently available for streaming on Netflix in most regions. However, availability may vary depending on your location. Check your local Netflix catalog to confirm if the show is available in your region. Physical copies of the show (DVDs and Blu-rays) may also be available for purchase.
FAQ 5: What Happened to the Original Showrunner of Designated Survivor?
The show experienced several showrunner changes during its run. The initial showrunner, Amy B. Harris, departed after the first season. Neal Baer took over for the second season, and Keith Eisner served as showrunner for the third season on Netflix. These frequent changes may have contributed to the show’s overall narrative arc and eventual cancellation.
FAQ 6: Who Were the Main Cast Members of Designated Survivor?
The main cast included:
- Kiefer Sutherland as President Tom Kirkman
- Natascha McElhone as Alex Kirkman
- Adan Canto as Aaron Shore
- Italia Ricci as Emily Rhodes
- LaMonica Garrett as Mike Ritter
- Kal Penn as Seth Wright
- Maggie Q as Hannah Wells
FAQ 7: What Was the Overall Plot of Designated Survivor?
The series revolves around Tom Kirkman, the U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, who is unexpectedly appointed President after a devastating attack wipes out the President and most of the Cabinet. Kirkman, an independent, must navigate the treacherous waters of Washington politics while leading the country through a time of crisis and uncovering the conspiracy behind the attack.
FAQ 8: How Did Season 3 of Designated Survivor Differ from Seasons 1 & 2?
Season 3, airing on Netflix, differed from the ABC seasons in several key ways. It embraced a more mature and gritty tone, exploring darker themes and featuring more explicit language. The season also focused heavily on Kirkman’s campaign for president, delving into the ethical compromises and political machinations involved in running for the highest office.
FAQ 9: Is Designated Survivor Based on a True Story?
While the premise is fictional, Designated Survivor draws inspiration from the real-life concept of a designated survivor. In the United States, a designated survivor is a member of the Cabinet who is kept at a secure location during major events, such as the State of the Union address, to ensure continuity of government in the event of a catastrophe.
FAQ 10: Was There a Spin-Off Planned for Designated Survivor?
There were rumors of a potential spin-off focusing on Italia Ricci’s character, Emily Rhodes, but these plans never materialized. The cancellation of the main series likely put an end to any spin-off considerations.
FAQ 11: What Were Some of the Major Criticisms of Designated Survivor?
Some common criticisms of Designated Survivor included its sometimes predictable plotlines, its reliance on clichés, and the inconsistencies in character development across different seasons. The frequent showrunner changes may have contributed to these issues.
FAQ 12: What Made Designated Survivor So Popular?
Despite its criticisms, Designated Survivor was popular due to its timely and relevant themes, the strong performance of Kiefer Sutherland as a relatable and principled leader, and the show’s exploration of complex political and ethical dilemmas. The show also benefited from its engaging premise and fast-paced storytelling, keeping viewers hooked from week to week. Its initial broadcast on network television and subsequent streaming availability on Netflix expanded its audience considerably, solidifying its place in popular culture. The initial shock value of the premise was also a significant draw for viewers curious to see how such an improbable scenario would play out.