Designated Survivor: Season 2, Episode 8 - Home (2017)

In the opening scene of "Home," President Tom Kirkman is in the Oval Office, grappling with the emotional fallout from the recent death of his friend and former Chief of Staff, who was killed in a terrorist attack. He is visibly shaken and reflects on the impact of loss, which sets the tone for the episode. Meanwhile, Agent Hannah Wells is investigating the conspiracy surrounding the attack, and she is determined to uncover the truth, even as she faces pressure from her superiors to back off.

As the episode progresses, Kirkman is visited by his wife, Alex, who encourages him to take a break and spend time with their children. She suggests a family trip to their home in the Midwest, which Kirkman initially resists due to his responsibilities as President. However, he ultimately agrees, recognizing the need for family time and a chance to reconnect with his roots.

The Kirkman family arrives at their old home, where they are greeted by nostalgia and memories. The atmosphere is bittersweet as they reminisce about their past, but there is also tension as they confront the changes that have occurred since they left. Kirkman's children express their mixed feelings about returning, highlighting the emotional weight of their family history.

Back in Washington, D.C., Hannah Wells continues her investigation and discovers a lead that connects the conspiracy to a powerful figure in the government. She faces obstacles as she tries to gather evidence, including pushback from her colleagues who are wary of her digging too deep. Despite the risks, Hannah is driven by her commitment to justice and the need to protect the President.

While the Kirkman family is at home, they engage in heartfelt conversations that reveal their individual struggles and the impact of Tom's presidency on their lives. Kirkman's daughter, in particular, expresses her frustration with the constant media scrutiny and the challenges of being a political family. This moment of vulnerability strengthens their bond and highlights the personal sacrifices they have made.

As the episode unfolds, Kirkman receives a call from his Chief of Staff, Emily, who informs him about Hannah's findings. This news pulls him back into the political fray, and he must balance his family time with his duties as President. The tension between his personal life and professional responsibilities becomes increasingly pronounced.

In a pivotal moment, Kirkman decides to cut his family visit short to address the emerging threat. He returns to Washington, where he meets with his national security team to discuss the implications of Hannah's discoveries. The urgency of the situation weighs heavily on him, and he grapples with the fear of putting his family in danger.

Meanwhile, Hannah confronts the powerful figure she suspects is behind the conspiracy. This confrontation is tense and fraught with danger, as she navigates a web of deceit and betrayal. She manages to gather crucial evidence but realizes that she is being watched, heightening the stakes of her investigation.

The episode culminates in a dramatic showdown where Kirkman must make a critical decision regarding national security. He weighs the potential fallout of taking action against the conspirators versus the safety of his family and the country. This moment encapsulates the internal conflict he faces as a leader and a father.

In the final scenes, Kirkman returns to his family, who are waiting for him with a mix of relief and concern. They share a moment of unity, but the shadow of the conspiracy looms over them, reminding Kirkman of the challenges that lie ahead. The episode ends on a note of uncertainty, with the family together but aware that their lives will never be the same.

In the ending of "Designated Survivor" Season 2, Episode 8 titled "Home," President Tom Kirkman faces a personal crisis as he grapples with the implications of his past decisions. The episode culminates in a tense confrontation with his estranged brother, which forces both men to confront their shared history and the emotional scars that have shaped their lives. Meanwhile, Kirkman's administration deals with the fallout of a significant political maneuver, leading to a precarious situation that tests the loyalty and resolve of his team. The episode concludes with Kirkman reaffirming his commitment to his role as president, despite the personal sacrifices it entails.

As the episode unfolds, we begin with President Tom Kirkman in the Oval Office, where he is preparing for a significant meeting. The atmosphere is tense, underscored by the weight of his responsibilities. Kirkman is visibly strained, reflecting on the challenges he faces as both a leader and a man dealing with personal loss. His internal conflict is palpable, as he struggles to balance his duties with the emotional turmoil stemming from his estrangement from his brother, who has recently re-entered his life.

In a series of flashbacks, we see glimpses of Kirkman's childhood, revealing the complicated relationship he had with his brother. These memories serve to deepen our understanding of Kirkman's motivations and the emotional baggage he carries into his presidency. The juxtaposition of his past with his present highlights the stark contrast between the innocence of youth and the burdens of adulthood.

As the episode progresses, Kirkman's brother arrives at the White House, and their reunion is fraught with tension. The two men engage in a heated conversation, where old wounds are reopened. Kirkman's brother expresses feelings of betrayal and abandonment, while Kirkman struggles to articulate his own pain and the reasons behind his choices. This confrontation is not just a personal reckoning; it symbolizes the broader themes of family loyalty, sacrifice, and the impact of political life on personal relationships.

Meanwhile, Kirkman's team is embroiled in a political crisis involving a controversial decision that could have far-reaching implications for the administration. Chief of Staff Emily Rhodes and other key advisors work tirelessly to navigate the fallout, showcasing their loyalty to Kirkman and their commitment to the country. Their efforts highlight the complexities of governance and the sacrifices made by those who serve in the shadows of power.

As the episode nears its conclusion, Kirkman makes a pivotal decision regarding his brother, choosing to extend an olive branch despite the pain of their past. This moment signifies a turning point for Kirkman, as he acknowledges the importance of family and the need for reconciliation. The emotional weight of this decision is evident on his face, reflecting both relief and lingering sorrow.

The episode wraps up with Kirkman reaffirming his dedication to his role as president, standing resolute in the face of adversity. He understands that his position requires sacrifices, not just for himself but for those he loves. The final scenes depict Kirkman looking out over the White House grounds, a symbol of his commitment to the nation and the personal struggles he continues to face.

In summary, the fates of the main characters are intertwined with the themes of family, loyalty, and the burdens of leadership. Kirkman emerges from this episode with a renewed sense of purpose, while his brother is left to grapple with their shared history. The episode closes on a note of hope, suggesting that while the path ahead may be fraught with challenges, the bonds of family and the responsibilities of leadership can coexist, albeit with difficulty.

In "Home," the eighth episode of Season 2 of Designated Survivor, there is no post-credit scene. The episode concludes without any additional scenes or content after the credits roll. The focus remains on the main narrative and character developments throughout the episode, wrapping up the storylines presented without extending into a post-credit moment.

In this episode, Tom Kirkman's past is revisited through the arrival of his estranged brother, who brings up unresolved family issues and the emotional turmoil stemming from their father's death.

Tom is initially conflicted and defensive about his brother's visit, grappling with feelings of anger and betrayal over their family's history, which leads to intense emotional confrontations.

Emily Rhodes acts as a supportive figure for Tom, encouraging him to confront his feelings about his brother and their family, while also managing her own professional responsibilities in the White House.

The episode delves into the complexities of family relationships, showcasing the tension and unresolved issues between Tom and his brother, highlighting their differing perspectives on their upbringing and the impact of their father's legacy.

This episode significantly impacts Tom's character development by forcing him to confront his past, leading to a deeper understanding of his own vulnerabilities and the importance of family, ultimately shaping his decisions as a leader.

In "Home," Season 2, Episode 8 of Designated Survivor, there are several elements that may be considered objectionable or upsetting for children or sensitive viewers:

1. Violence and Threats: The episode includes scenes that depict violence or threats, which may be intense or distressing for younger audiences.

2. Emotional Turmoil: Characters experience significant emotional distress, including grief and anxiety, which may be heavy for sensitive viewers.

3. Political Tension: The episode explores themes of political conflict and betrayal, which may be complex and unsettling for younger viewers to understand.

4. Family Struggles: There are scenes that delve into family dynamics and personal struggles, which may resonate deeply and evoke strong emotions.

5. Mature Themes: The narrative touches on themes of loss, loyalty, and the burdens of leadership, which may be more suitable for older teens and adults.

These elements contribute to a tone that may not be entirely family-friendly, particularly for younger children or those who are sensitive to such themes.