“Designated Survivor” is a political thriller television series that first premiered on ABC in September 2016. The show, created by David Guggenheim, revolves around Tom Kirkman, a low-level cabinet member who unexpectedly becomes the President of the United States after a devastating attack on the Capitol. With its intense political drama and suspenseful plot twists, many viewers have wondered if the series is based on real-life events or figures. In this article, we will explore the origins of “Designated Survivor,” examine the extent to which it draws from real-life scenarios, and discuss how the series portrays political intrigue and governance.
The Premise of “Designated Survivor”
The central plot of “Designated Survivor” begins with an unprecedented attack on the Capitol during the State of the Union address, which wipes out the entire line of succession. As the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, Tom Kirkman, portrayed by Kiefer Sutherland, is thrust into the role of President. This sudden shift in power forces Kirkman to navigate the complexities of running a country while uncovering the truth behind the attack and dealing with personal and political challenges.
The Concept of a “Designated Survivor”
The term “designated survivor” is not unique to the show; it is a real concept used in U.S. government protocol. During events like the State of the Union address or presidential inaugurations, one member of the presidential line of succession is chosen to remain in a secure location away from the event. This practice is designed to ensure that if a catastrophic event were to occur that incapacitated the President, Vice President, and other key officials, there would still be a constitutional successor available to assume the presidency.
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Is “Designated Survivor” Based on True Events?
While “Designated Survivor” draws inspiration from real-life governmental procedures and historical events, the show itself is a work of fiction. However, it does incorporate elements that reflect real-world political scenarios and challenges.
Real-Life Government Protocols
The concept of a designated survivor is based on actual U.S. government protocols. This practice is meant to safeguard the continuity of government in case of a major disaster. The show accurately portrays the idea that one person in the line of succession is kept away from high-risk events to prevent a complete loss of leadership. This aspect of the show adds a layer of authenticity to its narrative, even though the specific events depicted are fictional.
Fictional Plot Elements
The primary storyline of “Designated Survivor,” including the Capitol attack and the subsequent investigation, is a fictional construct. The series creates a dramatic and engaging plot that is not based on any real-life attack or conspiracy. The show’s creators have crafted a narrative that explores hypothetical scenarios and political dilemmas rather than depicting actual historical events.
Influences from Real-World Events
Although the plot itself is fictional, “Designated Survivor” draws on real-world political and historical events for inspiration. The show incorporates elements of political intrigue, corruption, and the complexities of governance that are reflective of the current political climate. For example, the series touches on themes such as terrorism, political maneuvering, and the ethical dilemmas faced by leaders, which are relevant to real-world politics.
The Impact of “Designated Survivor” on Public Perception
“Designated Survivor” has had a significant impact on how audiences perceive political drama and governance. The show has been praised for its suspenseful storytelling and its portrayal of the complexities of leadership. It also sheds light on the pressures and ethical challenges faced by those in positions of power.
Enhancing Understanding of Political Procedures
By depicting the concept of a designated survivor and the intricacies of presidential succession, the show has helped educate viewers about U.S. government protocols. While the dramatic elements are fictional, the series has sparked discussions about the real-life procedures that ensure continuity of government.
Influence on Political Discourse
The series has also influenced political discourse by highlighting issues such as political corruption, government transparency, and the impact of crisis management on leadership. The show’s portrayal of these themes encourages viewers to think critically about real-world political issues and governance.
Conclusion
In summary, “Designated Survivor” is a fictional television series that uses the concept of a designated survivor, a real government protocol, as a foundation for its plot. While the show incorporates elements of real-world politics and governmental procedures, its storylines and characters are not based on actual events. Instead, the series offers a dramatized portrayal of political intrigue and leadership challenges, drawing on real-world issues to create a compelling narrative.
The show’s impact on public perception of political drama and governance is notable, as it educates viewers about government procedures while exploring fictional scenarios. By blending reality with fiction, “Designated Survivor” provides an engaging and thought-provoking look at the complexities of leadership and political decision-making.
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