Netflix’s original political thriller drama Designated Survivor was one of the most-watched shows on the streaming website. The series debuted on ABC in September 2016 and remained on the network before being canceled. Fans were eager to see Thomas Adam Kirkman, who was forced to take America’s presidential position. A major explosion resulted in the death of the president and everyone else in line. Fortunately, Netflix picked up the show for the third season, consisting of ten episodes. After the third episode, fans were eager to know if Kirkman would return for Designated Survivor Season 4.
The political drama follows an American academic named Thomas Kirkman, the Designated Survivor. He is forced to rise from US Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to US President. A massive explosion kills everyone before him in the presidential line of succession. An inexperienced Kirkman takes on the responsibility of a grieving nation in order to restore its glory. Meanwhile, Kirkman also focuses on uncovering the truth behind the attack that shocked the entire nation. The attack also leads to a state of financial and emotional crisis. So, will the shoe return for the fourth installment? Keep reading ahead to find out!
Will the series return for Season 4 of Designated Survivor?
Over the course of three seasons, Designated Survivor has an overall rating of 7.5/10 on IMDB and 71% on Rotten Tomatoes. The show has also been one of the most watched shows on the streaming network for a long time. However, Netflix decided not to go ahead with the fourth episode. The streaming network canceled the series in July 2019 due to complications with the actors’ contracts.
In a statement, Netflix was proud to offer fans a third season. The streaming giant also assured that the three seasons would remain available on the website for years to come. They also expressed their gratitude to lead actor Kiefer Sutherland, the showrunners, executive producers, the show’s cast and crew for their compelling and satisfying performance during the final season.
Why was the designated survivor canceled?
It seems that the show’s ratings and audience reaction aren’t the real reason Netflix has decided not to go ahead with a future episode. During a radio interview with Simon Mayo, Sutherland made it clear that ratings were not central. Sutherland revealed that he didn’t think the series would return for season 4. He also said the actors’ contracts were quite complicated and different from network television. They gave the years a one-year contract, which prompted the actors to take another job. However, Netflix has chosen not to make any statements about the contracts.
Kal Penn has already committed to other projects, including NBC’s new comedy series. However, some actors are still looking forward to the possibility of a return of the show. Benjamin Charles Watson, who plays Dontae Evans, expressed his optimism. He had a feeling that fans would get to see Designated Survivor Season 4. However, the complications led to the show’s cancellation. So if the actors are available in the future, we can expect a revival of the political drama.
How did the designated survivor end up?
Kirkman spoke to his psychologist about the past 36 hours in the final. He was conflicted about whether or not the audio clip was leaked. The clip proved Moss’ possible involvement in the terrorist plot. Meanwhile, Kirkman’s polls rose, bringing him closer to his fourth term in office. Isabel told Aaron why they couldn’t be together. Mars tried to convince Lynn she could run for her father’s old Senate seat. On Election Day, Kirkman was elected to a full term. He organized a victory party for the staff and his supporters.
The FBI arrested Myles Lee and Lorraine for their involvement in both the Kirman and Moss campaigns. Kirkman finally delivered a public-friendly speech after winning the election. But deep down, he felt like he couldn’t handle the task. Thus, the series ended abruptly with a series of loose ends. So if everything falls into place, we can remain hopeful to see Designated Survivor Season 4 and deliver a satisfying conclusion to its devoted fans in the future.
Also read Midnight Mass Season 2: Will it return to Netflix? What are the odds?
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