Designated Survivor was one of the most captivating political dramas in recent television history. With its gripping narrative and a strong lead performance by Kiefer Sutherland, the show managed to garner a loyal following during its initial run. However, its journey was marred by network changes, fluctuating viewership, and eventual cancellation. In this article, we will explore the rise and fall of Designated Survivor, the factors that led to its cancellation, and its legacy in the realm of television.
The Concept of Designated Survivor
The Origin of the Concept
The idea of a designated survivor is rooted in a real-life government protocol. In the United States, during events such as the State of the Union address, where all top government officials gather in one location, one member of the cabinet is kept at a secure, undisclosed location. This individual is known as the “designated survivor.” The purpose is to ensure the continuity of government in the event of a catastrophic attack that wipes out the leadership.
Inspiration for the Show
The creators of Designated Survivor took this concept and spun it into a thrilling narrative. The show follows Tom Kirkman (played by Kiefer Sutherland), a low-level cabinet member who suddenly becomes President of the United States after an attack on the Capitol during the State of the Union. The premise was fresh, offering a blend of political intrigue, personal drama, and action, which helped it stand out from other political dramas.
The Initial Success
Season 1: A Strong Start
When Designated Survivor premiered on ABC in September 2016, it was met with high expectations. The first season received positive reviews from critics and audiences alike, praised for its intriguing plot, Sutherland’s performance, and the exploration of what happens when an ordinary man is thrust into extraordinary circumstances. The show quickly became a ratings success, drawing in millions of viewers each week.
Critical Acclaim
The initial episodes were lauded for their suspenseful storytelling and the way they handled the sudden shift in Tom Kirkman’s life. The series was praised for addressing issues like governance, terrorism, and conspiracy in a way that felt relevant to contemporary audiences. Kiefer Sutherland’s portrayal of the reluctant president was particularly noted, earning him a nomination for the Critics’ Choice Television Award for Best Actor in a Drama Series.
Viewer Engagement
Designated Survivor managed to keep viewers on the edge of their seats with its twist-filled narrative. The show’s blend of political drama and thriller elements created a unique viewing experience. As the season progressed, the mystery surrounding the attack on the Capitol deepened, adding layers to the story and keeping the audience invested in the characters and their fates.
The Decline Begins
Season 2: Changes in Direction
Despite the success of the first season, Designated Survivor faced challenges in its second season. The show underwent significant changes, including a shift in its showrunners, which led to a change in tone and narrative focus. The series began to move away from the central conspiracy that had driven much of the first season and started to delve into more traditional political drama and procedural elements.
Audience Response
The changes in the second season were not well received by all viewers. While some appreciated the show’s attempt to explore new storylines, others felt that it had lost the unique edge that made it compelling. The ratings began to decline, reflecting the growing discontent among the fanbase. The decision to shift focus away from the central conspiracy and explore more mundane political issues was seen by many as a misstep.
Behind-the-Scenes Turmoil
Another significant factor contributing to the show’s decline was the instability behind the scenes. Designated Survivor went through multiple showrunners during its run, which led to inconsistencies in storytelling and character development. The frequent changes in leadership resulted in a lack of cohesive vision for the series, and this was evident in the uneven pacing and plotlines that emerged in the second season.
The Final Season and Cancellation
Season 3: A New Beginning on Netflix
In May 2018, after two seasons, ABC announced the cancellation of Designated Survivor. However, the story didn’t end there. Netflix picked up the series for a third season, providing the show with a new lease on life. The move to Netflix allowed the creators more creative freedom, and the third season tackled darker, more mature themes, including political corruption, ethics, and social issues.
Changes in Tone and Content
The transition to Netflix came with noticeable changes in the show’s tone and content. The third season was grittier and more intense, with an emphasis on realism. The shift to a streaming platform also allowed for more explicit content, including language and themes that would have been restricted on network television. This change, while refreshing to some, alienated others who were accustomed to the show’s earlier tone.
Critical Reception
The third season received mixed reviews. While some critics appreciated the show’s willingness to take risks and explore more complex issues, others felt that the series had lost its way. The focus on political campaigns, ethical dilemmas, and personal conflicts was seen by some as a departure from the high-stakes drama that defined the earlier seasons. Despite these critiques, the third season managed to maintain a dedicated fanbase.
The Decision to End the Show
In July 2019, Netflix announced that it would not renew Designated Survivor for a fourth season. The decision was attributed to a combination of factors, including declining viewership and the challenge of maintaining the show’s quality and relevance in an increasingly crowded television landscape. The show’s ending left many storylines unresolved, leading to disappointment among fans who had hoped for a more conclusive finale.
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Factors Leading to the Show’s Cancellation
Inconsistent Storytelling
One of the main reasons behind the cancellation of Designated Survivor was the inconsistent storytelling that plagued the series, especially after the first season. The frequent changes in showrunners led to a lack of narrative coherence, with different seasons feeling disjointed and unfocused. The shift in tone and direction from one season to another confused viewers and eroded the strong foundation laid by the initial episodes.
Declining Viewership
As the show progressed, its viewership steadily declined. The initial excitement and intrigue that drew in millions of viewers began to wane as the storylines became more convoluted and less engaging. The decline in ratings, particularly during the second season, signaled a loss of interest among the audience. Even the move to Netflix couldn’t fully revive the show’s popularity.
Challenges of Sustaining the Premise
Another challenge that Designated Survivor faced was the difficulty in sustaining its original premise over multiple seasons. The concept of an ordinary man becoming president after a catastrophic attack was intriguing, but as the series progressed, it became harder to maintain the tension and stakes that defined the early episodes. The show’s attempt to evolve into a more traditional political drama didn’t resonate with all viewers.
Competition from Other Shows
The television landscape during Designated Survivor’s run was highly competitive, with numerous other political dramas and thrillers vying for viewers’ attention. Shows like House of Cards, The West Wing, and Homeland offered strong competition, and as the novelty of Designated Survivor wore off, it struggled to stand out in a crowded market.
The Legacy of Designated Survivor
Kiefer Sutherland’s Performance
One of the most enduring aspects of Designated Survivor is Kiefer Sutherland’s performance as Tom Kirkman. His portrayal of a reluctant, principled leader navigating the complexities of the presidency remains a highlight of the series. Sutherland’s ability to convey vulnerability, strength, and determination made Kirkman a relatable and compelling character, earning him praise even in the show’s later, more turbulent seasons.
A Unique Premise in Political Drama
Despite its eventual decline, Designated Survivor will be remembered for its unique premise. The show brought a fresh perspective to the political drama genre by exploring what happens when an ordinary person is thrust into the highest office in the land. The early episodes, in particular, offered a thrilling exploration of power, responsibility, and governance in the face of unprecedented challenges.
Impact on Future Political Dramas
Designated Survivor also had an impact on the genre of political dramas, influencing subsequent shows that sought to blend political intrigue with personal drama and action. Its exploration of conspiracy, terrorism, and the human side of leadership provided a template for future series looking to balance high-stakes drama with character-driven storytelling.
The Fanbase and Cultural Impact
Even though Designated Survivor was canceled, it left behind a dedicated fanbase that continues to discuss and analyze the series. The show’s exploration of timely political issues, its suspenseful narrative, and its strong performances have ensured that it remains a topic of conversation among television enthusiasts. The cultural impact of Designated Survivor is evident in the way it has inspired discussions about leadership, governance, and the role of the presidency in modern society.
Conclusion
Designated Survivor was a show that captured the imagination of viewers with its unique premise and strong performances, particularly by Kiefer Sutherland. However, the series was ultimately unable to maintain the momentum and coherence needed to sustain its initial success. Inconsistent storytelling, declining viewership, and the challenges of evolving its premise led to its eventual cancellation. Despite these setbacks, Designated Survivor has left a lasting legacy in the world of political drama, and it remains a significant part of television history.
The journey of Designated Survivor serves as a reminder of the challenges that come with maintaining a hit show over multiple seasons. While it may have faltered in its later years, the series will be remembered for its innovative concept, its exploration of power and responsibility, and the memorable performance of its lead actor.
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