TV Review: Designated Survivor (Season 2, Episode 3)
13th October 2017
Share This Article:
This week’s episode of ‘Designated Survivor’ was the first step away from the Patrick Lloyd plot that launched the series, though his shadow still looms over Hannah Wells’ investigation.
In any case, away from the conspiracy, ‘Outbreak’ packed a punch in its portrayal of current political and social issues in contemporary America. It tackles both institutionalised racism, the whitewashing of history, and the dangerous power of pharmaceutical companies in a capitalist society, whilst staying close to home in exploring how Kirkman’s administration handles such conflicts.
The season’s third instalment is a showcase of how far President Kirkman has come in developing his leadership capabilities, as he handles a viral pandemic and takes on big pharma. His victory in the end continues to highlight his disinterest in his image, pride or in taking credit, but rather his want for what is ultimately best for his people and his country. It’s his character trademark, and even through his personal growth and learning curve, it’s one thing that never lets go.
It does feel like the show is losing him slightly, however. Our introduction into the whole universe of Designated Survivor was Tom Kirkman; nowadays though, it seems he’s merely brought in to jump from crisis to crisis, without ever returning to centre stage the way he was at the show’s inception.

- Article continues below...
- More stories you may like...
- It Is What It Is: Love Island Recap, Week 2
- The only relationships on Love Island 2019 worth talking about are the girls' friendships
- Review: Russell T Davies, Edinburgh TV Festival
You might also like...
People who read this also read...
TRENDING
TRENDING CHANNELS
CONTRIBUTOR OF THE MONTH