Shows Like Designated Survivor: Top Political Thrillers You Can’t Miss
“Designated Survivor” captivated audiences with its intense political drama, gripping storylines, and unforgettable characters. Fans of this popular show are always on the lookout for similar content that offers the same blend of suspense, action, and drama. If you enjoy political thrillers that delve into government, leadership, crisis management, and moral dilemmas, then this list is for you. Here, we present a curated selection of shows like Designated Survivor that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
1. House of Cards
Brief Synopsis: Follow Frank Underwood, a ruthless politician, as he manipulates his way to the top of the U.S. government.
Key Similarities to Designated Survivor: Political intrigue, crisis management, moral dilemmas, and strong central characters.
Why You’ll Love It: The masterful performances by Kevin Spacey and Robin Wright, combined with the show’s intricate plot twists and dark themes, make “House of Cards” a must-watch for fans of political thrillers.
2. Scandal
Brief Synopsis: Olivia Pope, a former White House communications director, starts her own crisis management firm, navigating political scandals and personal drama.
Key Similarities to Designated Survivor: Crisis management, political intrigue, and action-packed episodes.
Why You’ll Love It: Kerry Washington’s compelling performance as Olivia Pope, coupled with the show’s fast-paced and scandalous storylines, will leave you wanting more.
3. Homeland
Brief Synopsis: CIA officer Carrie Mathison suspects that a rescued POW may be a sleeper agent planning a terrorist attack.
Key Similarities to Designated Survivor: National security, conspiracy thrillers, and action and suspense.
Why You’ll Love It: Claire Danes delivers a stellar performance as the brilliant yet troubled Carrie Mathison, and the show’s unpredictable plot twists will keep you hooked.
4. 24
Brief Synopsis: Counter-terrorist agent Jack Bauer races against the clock to thwart terrorist plots in real-time.
Key Similarities to Designated Survivor: National security, action and suspense, and strong central characters.
Why You’ll Love It: Kiefer Sutherland’s iconic portrayal of Jack Bauer and the show’s real-time format create an adrenaline-pumping experience that fans of “Designated Survivor” will appreciate.
5. Madam Secretary
Brief Synopsis: Elizabeth McCord, a former CIA analyst, becomes the Secretary of State and navigates international diplomacy and political intrigue.
Key Similarities to Designated Survivor: Political intrigue, leadership and resilience, and moral dilemmas.
Why You’ll Love It: Téa Leoni’s nuanced performance as Elizabeth McCord and the show’s focus on international politics and diplomacy make “Madam Secretary” a compelling watch.
6. The West Wing
Brief Synopsis: Go behind the scenes of the White House as the staff navigates political and personal challenges.
Key Similarities to Designated Survivor: Political intrigue, leadership and resilience, and strong central characters.
Why You’ll Love It: The show’s witty dialogue, well-developed characters, and insightful portrayal of the inner workings of the government will captivate you.
7. Designated Survivor: 60 Days (Korean Remake)
Designated Survivor: 60 Days (IMDb)
Brief Synopsis: A Korean adaptation of “Designated Survivor,” following a similar storyline with a unique cultural twist.
Key Similarities to Designated Survivor: Political intrigue, crisis management, and action and suspense.
Why You’ll Love It: The fresh cultural perspective and strong performances by the cast make this adaptation a worthy companion to the original series.
8. Line of Duty
Brief Synopsis: Follow the investigations of AC-12, a police anti-corruption unit, as they uncover conspiracies within the force.
Key Similarities to Designated Survivor: Conspiracy thrillers, action and suspense, and moral dilemmas.
Why You’ll Love It: The show’s gripping storylines, complex characters, and shocking twists will keep you on the edge of your seat.
9. Bodyguard
Brief Synopsis: A war veteran turned specialist protection officer is assigned to protect a high-profile politician.
Key Similarities to Designated Survivor: National security, action and suspense, and political intrigue.
Why You’ll Love It: Richard Madden’s intense performance and the show’s high-stakes drama make “Bodyguard” a thrilling watch.
10. Quantico
Brief Synopsis: A group of young FBI recruits undergo rigorous training, only to find themselves involved in a major terrorist attack.
Key Similarities to Designated Survivor: National security, conspiracy thrillers, and action and suspense.
Why You’ll Love It: Priyanka Chopra’s standout performance and the show’s engaging plot twists make “Quantico” a must-watch for fans of political thrillers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
1. Is Designated Survivor realistic?
While “Designated Survivor” takes creative liberties, it offers a compelling and dramatized portrayal of political crises and leadership challenges.
2. Why was Designated Survivor cancelled?
“Designated Survivor” was cancelled after three seasons due to declining viewership and other production-related factors.
3. Will there be a Designated Survivor Season 4?
As of now, there are no plans for a fourth season, but fans continue to hope for a revival.
4. What other roles has Kiefer Sutherland played?
Kiefer Sutherland is best known for his role as Jack Bauer in “24” and has appeared in numerous films and TV shows, including “Flatliners,” “Young Guns,” and “Touch.”
5. Are there real-world political parallels in Designated Survivor?
While fictional, “Designated Survivor” explores themes of crisis management, national security, and political intrigue, which resonate with real-world political dynamics.
Conclusion:
If you loved “Designated Survivor,” these shows will undoubtedly keep you entertained with their political intrigue, action, and suspense. From “House of Cards” to “Quantico,” each series offers a unique take on the political thriller genre. Share your favorite shows in the comments below and let us know which series you’re most excited to watch next!
Comparison Table
| Show Title | Streaming Platform | Episodes | Key Similarities |
|---|---|---|---|
| House of Cards | Netflix | 73 | Political intrigue, moral dilemmas |
| Scandal | Hulu | 124 | Crisis management, political intrigue |
| Homeland | Showtime | 96 | National security, conspiracy thrillers |
| 24 | Hulu | 192 | National security, action and suspense |
| Madam Secretary | Netflix | 120 | Political intrigue, leadership |
| The West Wing | HBO Max | 154 | Political intrigue, leadership |
| Designated Survivor: 60 Days | Netflix | 16 | Political intrigue, action |
| Line of Duty | Hulu | 36 | Conspiracy thrillers, moral dilemmas |
| Bodyguard | Netflix | 6 | National security, action |
| Quantico | Hulu | 57 | National security, conspiracy thrillers |
