Designated Survivor: Season 2, Episode 11 - Grief (2018)

The episode begins with President Tom Kirkman grappling with the aftermath of the assassination of his friend and mentor, the former President, Cornelius Moss. The emotional weight of the loss is palpable as Kirkman attends a memorial service for Moss, where he delivers a heartfelt eulogy. He struggles to maintain his composure, reflecting on the impact Moss had on his life and presidency. The atmosphere is somber, filled with mourners who share their grief, and Kirkman feels the pressure of leading the nation while dealing with his personal loss.

Following the memorial, Kirkman is approached by various members of his administration, including Emily Rhodes and Aaron Shore, who express their condolences and offer support. However, Kirkman is visibly distracted and overwhelmed by his emotions. He finds it difficult to focus on the pressing issues at hand, including a potential crisis involving a foreign nation. His internal conflict is evident as he tries to balance his responsibilities as President with his personal grief.

Meanwhile, the subplot involving Hannah Wells, the FBI agent, unfolds as she continues her investigation into the conspiracy surrounding the assassination of Moss. She is determined to uncover the truth and is seen interviewing various witnesses and analyzing evidence. Her relentless pursuit of justice showcases her dedication, but it also puts her in danger as she gets closer to uncovering the deeper layers of the conspiracy.

As the episode progresses, Kirkman faces a critical decision regarding how to respond to the foreign threat. His advisors urge him to take a strong stance, but Kirkman's emotional state clouds his judgment. He reflects on Moss's leadership style and the importance of diplomacy, which leads him to consider a more measured approach. This internal struggle culminates in a tense meeting with his national security team, where he ultimately decides to pursue a diplomatic solution rather than military action, showcasing his growth as a leader.

In a parallel storyline, the episode explores the personal lives of other characters, including Emily and Aaron, who are dealing with their own grief and challenges. Emily is shown struggling with her feelings for Aaron, and their relationship is tested as they navigate the complexities of their professional and personal lives. Their interactions are filled with tension, highlighting the emotional stakes for both characters.

As the episode nears its conclusion, Kirkman attends a private gathering to honor Moss's legacy. Here, he is confronted by Moss's family, who express their anger and frustration over the circumstances of his death. This confrontation forces Kirkman to confront his own feelings of guilt and responsibility. He vows to honor Moss's memory by continuing to fight for the values they both believed in, solidifying his resolve to lead the country with integrity.

The episode ends with Kirkman reflecting on the weight of leadership and the personal sacrifices that come with it. He stands alone in the Oval Office, looking out the window, contemplating the challenges ahead. The emotional toll of the day is evident on his face, but there is also a sense of determination as he prepares to face the future, committed to making decisions that would make Moss proud.

In the ending of "Grief," the eleventh episode of Season 2 of Designated Survivor, President Tom Kirkman faces the emotional fallout of a recent tragedy. He grapples with the loss of a close friend and the impact it has on his leadership. Meanwhile, Hannah Wells continues her investigation into the conspiracy surrounding the government. The episode concludes with Kirkman making a poignant decision about how to honor the memory of his friend, while Wells uncovers crucial information that could change the course of the investigation.

As the episode unfolds, we see President Tom Kirkman in the Oval Office, visibly shaken by the recent death of his friend, who was killed in a terrorist attack. The weight of grief hangs heavily on him, and he struggles to maintain his composure as he meets with his staff. The emotional toll of the loss is evident in his demeanor; he is distracted and contemplative, reflecting on the fragility of life and the responsibilities of his position.

In a series of meetings, Kirkman discusses the implications of the attack with his advisors. He is torn between the need to project strength as a leader and the personal grief that threatens to overwhelm him. His internal conflict is palpable as he navigates the expectations of his role while dealing with his own sorrow. The conversations reveal the strain on his relationships with his staff, particularly with Emily, who tries to support him but also feels the pressure of the situation.

Meanwhile, Hannah Wells is deep into her investigation, determined to uncover the truth behind the conspiracy that has been plaguing the government. She follows leads that take her to various locations, each step bringing her closer to the heart of the matter. Her determination is fueled by a sense of justice and a desire to protect those she cares about. As she pieces together the puzzle, she faces danger and uncertainty, but her resolve remains strong.

As the episode progresses, Kirkman decides to hold a memorial service for his friend, a decision that reflects his desire to honor the fallen and bring the nation together in a time of grief. The service is a poignant moment, filled with emotional tributes and a sense of collective mourning. Kirkman delivers a heartfelt speech, acknowledging the sacrifices made and the importance of unity in the face of tragedy. His words resonate with the audience, highlighting the themes of loss, resilience, and the human connection that binds people together.

In the final scenes, Hannah uncovers a critical piece of evidence that could expose the conspiracy, setting the stage for future confrontations. The episode ends with a sense of unresolved tension, as both Kirkman and Wells are left to grapple with their respective challenges. Kirkman's grief is a reminder of the personal stakes involved in his role as president, while Wells' discovery hints at the larger battle against corruption and betrayal within the government.

By the end of "Grief," President Tom Kirkman is left to navigate the complexities of leadership amidst personal loss, while Hannah Wells stands on the brink of a significant breakthrough in her investigation. The episode closes with a sense of hope intertwined with the weight of grief, emphasizing the ongoing struggles faced by the characters as they confront their demons and seek justice in a turbulent political landscape.

In "Grief," the 11th episode of Season 2 of Designated Survivor, there is no post-credit scene. The episode concludes without any additional scenes after the credits roll, focusing instead on the emotional aftermath of the events that transpired throughout the episode. The narrative centers on President Tom Kirkman as he navigates the complexities of grief and loss, particularly in the wake of a tragic event that impacts both his personal and professional life. The episode emphasizes the weight of responsibility he carries and the emotional toll it takes on him and those around him.

In this episode, Emily Rhodes is dealing with the emotional fallout from the death of her father. She struggles with her grief while trying to maintain her professional responsibilities as the President's Chief of Staff. Her internal conflict is palpable as she navigates her personal loss and the demands of her job.

President Kirkman shows deep empathy towards Emily's situation. He offers her support and understanding, recognizing the weight of her grief. His response highlights his character's compassion and the bond he shares with his staff, particularly with Emily.

The theme of grief is central to the episode, influencing the dynamics between characters. Emily's struggle with her father's death affects her interactions with Kirkman and other staff members, leading to moments of vulnerability and connection. The episode explores how grief can impact decision-making and relationships in high-pressure environments.

The episode illustrates how grief can cloud judgment and affect leadership. Emily's emotional state leads her to question her capabilities, while Kirkman must balance his responsibilities as a leader with his desire to support Emily. This tension creates a compelling narrative about the challenges of governing while dealing with personal loss.

Emily takes time to reflect on her father's life and legacy, which leads her to make decisions that align with his values. She seeks to honor him by being true to herself and her beliefs, ultimately influencing her approach to her work and her interactions with Kirkman and the team.

In "Grief," the episode contains several themes and scenes that may be considered objectionable or upsetting for children or sensitive viewers. Here are some aspects to consider:

1. Death and Mourning: The episode deals heavily with themes of grief and loss, showcasing characters who are coping with the death of loved ones. This may be emotionally challenging for younger viewers.

2. Emotional Distress: Characters experience intense emotional moments, including crying and expressions of deep sorrow, which may be difficult for sensitive viewers to watch.

3. Violence and Threats: There are scenes that involve discussions of violence and threats to safety, which could be unsettling for children.

4. Political Tension: The episode features political intrigue and conflict, which may be complex and potentially confusing for younger audiences.

5. Mature Themes: The exploration of grief and the impact of loss on individuals and families may touch on mature themes that require a certain level of emotional maturity to fully understand.

These elements contribute to a tone that may not be suitable for all viewers, particularly younger children or those who are sensitive to themes of loss and emotional turmoil.