Designated Survivor is a political drama series that captivated audiences with its gripping storyline and intricate characters. This article explores the inception, production, and impact of the show, providing a comprehensive understanding of its creation and significance.
The Genesis of Designated Survivor
Concept and Development
The idea for Designated Survivor was conceived by David Guggenheim, a screenwriter known for his work on thrillers. The concept revolves around the U.S. government’s continuity plan, where a lower-level cabinet member is assigned to stay at a secure location during events involving all major government officials, ensuring a line of succession in case of a catastrophe.
Initial Inspiration: Guggenheim was intrigued by the real-life policy of having a “designated survivor” during significant events like the State of the Union address. This policy ensures that the government can continue to function even if a disaster strikes.
Pitching the Show: Guggenheim pitched the idea to ABC Studios, emphasizing the potential for suspenseful storytelling combined with political intrigue. The unique premise immediately caught the attention of executives.
Greenlighting the Series
After several discussions and revisions, ABC ordered a pilot episode in December 2015. The compelling storyline and timely relevance played a significant role in the decision to move forward with the project.
Pilot Episode: The pilot was directed by Paul McGuigan, a renowned director known for his work on shows like “Sherlock.” The episode set the tone for the series, introducing viewers to the central character, Tom Kirkman, played by Kiefer Sutherland.
Production Timeline
Casting and Pre-Production
With the greenlight from ABC, the production team began assembling a talented cast and crew. Kiefer Sutherland, a seasoned actor famous for his role in “24,” was cast as Tom Kirkman, the designated survivor who unexpectedly becomes the President of the United States.
Supporting Cast: The show also featured a strong supporting cast, including Natascha McElhone as Alex Kirkman, Adan Canto as Aaron Shore, Italia Ricci as Emily Rhodes, and Kal Penn as Seth Wright. Each actor brought depth and complexity to their roles, enhancing the overall narrative.
Writers and Directors: The writing team, led by Guggenheim, included talented writers with backgrounds in political drama and thriller genres. Directors like Brad Turner and Chris Grismer contributed to the show’s dynamic visual style.
Filming and Locations
Filming for the pilot episode began in early 2016, with primary locations in Toronto, Canada. The city provided a versatile backdrop for the show’s diverse settings, from the White House interiors to various outdoor scenes.
Set Design: The production design team meticulously recreated iconic locations like the Oval Office and other government buildings. Attention to detail was paramount, ensuring authenticity and immersion for the audience.
Special Effects: Given the show’s premise involving catastrophic events, special effects played a crucial role in depicting explosions, chaos, and the aftermath of attacks. The visual effects team employed advanced techniques to create realistic and impactful scenes.
Broadcast and Reception
Premiere and Initial Response
Designated Survivor premiered on September 21, 2016, on ABC. The pilot episode garnered positive reviews for its gripping storyline, strong performances, and high production values. Viewers were instantly hooked by the suspenseful plot and Sutherland’s portrayal of the reluctant president.
Ratings: The premiere attracted over 10 million viewers, making it one of the most-watched new series of the season. The show’s popularity continued to grow, thanks to word-of-mouth and positive critical reception.
Critical Acclaim: Critics praised the show’s unique premise and the strong performance by Kiefer Sutherland. The combination of political drama and thriller elements resonated with a wide audience, leading to favorable reviews.
Season Progression
Following the successful premiere, ABC quickly ordered a full season, consisting of 21 episodes. The first season delved deeper into the complexities of Tom Kirkman’s presidency, exploring themes of governance, personal sacrifice, and national security.
Character Development: As the series progressed, characters evolved, facing personal and professional challenges. The writers skillfully balanced character arcs with the overarching political narrative, keeping viewers engaged.
Plot Twists: The show was known for its unexpected plot twists and cliffhangers, maintaining suspense and intrigue. Each episode ended with compelling developments, encouraging viewers to tune in week after week.
Evolution and Changes
Transition to Netflix
After two seasons on ABC, Designated Survivor was canceled in May 2018 due to declining ratings. However, the show’s dedicated fan base prompted Netflix to revive it for a third season. The transition to the streaming platform allowed for more creative freedom and a shift in storytelling approach.
Season Three: The third season, released in June 2019, focused on contemporary political issues, including election campaigns, social media influence, and ethical dilemmas. The change in format allowed for more nuanced exploration of these topics.
Global Reach: Being on Netflix expanded the show’s international audience, making it accessible to viewers worldwide. The streaming platform’s binge-watching model also contributed to renewed interest and engagement.
Series Conclusion
Despite the successful transition to Netflix, the show concluded with its third season. The decision to end the series was mutual, with the creators and the platform agreeing that the story had reached a natural conclusion.
Final Season Reception: The final season received mixed reviews, with some praising its bold narrative choices and others feeling it diverged too much from its original premise. Nevertheless, it provided closure to the characters’ arcs and addressed lingering questions.
See also: Is “Designated Survivor” Worth Watching?
Impact and Legacy
Cultural and Political Relevance
Designated Survivor resonated with audiences due to its timely exploration of political themes and its portrayal of an ordinary man thrust into extraordinary circumstances. The show’s ability to reflect contemporary issues contributed to its cultural relevance.
Political Commentary: The series often mirrored real-world political events, prompting discussions about governance, ethics, and the responsibilities of leadership. Its depiction of a diverse and inclusive administration also garnered praise.
Character Archetypes: Tom Kirkman became an emblem of integrity and resilience, embodying the ideal of a principled leader navigating a complex political landscape. The character’s journey inspired viewers and added depth to the show’s narrative.
Fan Engagement
The dedicated fan base of Designated Survivor played a significant role in its longevity and success. Online communities, social media discussions, and fan theories kept the show in public discourse, even during its hiatus.
Interactive Media: The show’s official social media channels engaged with fans through behind-the-scenes content, cast interviews, and interactive posts. This engagement fostered a sense of community and loyalty among viewers.
Merchandising and Spin-Offs: The popularity of the show led to various merchandising opportunities, including books, apparel, and other collectibles. Although no official spin-offs were produced, the show’s universe continued to thrive in fan fiction and online discussions.
Behind the Scenes
Production Challenges
Producing a high-stakes political drama like Designated Survivor came with its own set of challenges. Balancing creative vision with budget constraints, maintaining authenticity, and managing a large ensemble cast required meticulous planning and execution.
Budget Management: The production team had to allocate resources efficiently, ensuring that key scenes involving special effects and intricate set designs were executed flawlessly. Budget considerations influenced decisions on location shooting and post-production processes.
Continuity and Accuracy: Maintaining continuity and accuracy in depicting political procedures and government protocols was paramount. The writers consulted experts and conducted thorough research to ensure the show’s portrayal of political events was credible.
Creative Decisions
The creative team behind Designated Survivor made several pivotal decisions that shaped the show’s direction and impact. From casting choices to plot developments, these decisions were instrumental in crafting a compelling narrative.
Casting Kiefer Sutherland: Casting Sutherland as the lead was a defining decision that significantly influenced the show’s success. His portrayal of Tom Kirkman brought gravitas and authenticity to the role, earning critical acclaim.
Story Arc Planning: The show’s writers meticulously planned story arcs to balance episodic intrigue with long-term character development. This approach ensured that each episode was engaging while contributing to the overarching narrative.
Conclusion
Designated Survivor remains a noteworthy entry in the realm of political dramas. Its unique premise, compelling characters, and timely themes contributed to its popularity and cultural impact. From its inception and production to its broadcast and reception, the show’s journey is a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring appeal of political intrigue.
The series’ exploration of leadership, resilience, and ethical dilemmas continues to resonate with audiences, making it a significant part of television history. Designated Survivor not only entertained but also provoked thought and discussion, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of political drama.
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