Netflix revives Designated Survivor

The Hollywood Reporter

The streaming giant has ordered a third season of the Kiefer Sutherland political drama four months after ABC's cancellation. According to The Hollywood Reporter, "the third season will consist of 10 episodes, less than half the order for its first two runs on the Disney-owned broadcast network. The series will be produced as a Netflix original, meaning ABC Studios is no longer involved as a producer alongside eOne." Season 3, which will drop in 2019, will also have a new showrunner, Neal Baer, who becomes the show's fifth showrunner overall. "Timely and gripping, Designated Survivor has quickened the pulses of our Netflix members outside the U.S. and Canada in its first two seasons," said Netflix vice president of content Bela Bajaria. "The international audience for the show drove our interest to bring the show to the world as a Netflix original for its third season and we are excited to bring the first two seasons to our U.S. and Canadian members as well.” The core cast of Sutherland, Kal Penn, Adan Canto and Italia Ricci are all set to return. Sutherland said in a statement: "I am thrilled to have the opportunity to play President Kirkman for season three of Designated Survivor with Netflix, eOne and Neal Baer. I believe this format will allow us to continue to delve deeply into storylines and issues concerning the American electorate that were not previously possible.” Penn, meanwhile, reacted to the news on Twitter. "My mom is gonna be so relieved that I have a job for another few months," Penn tweeted, adding: "I AM SO EXCITED THAT WE CAN FINALLY TALK ABOUT THIS! Season 3 baby! Thank you to all the fans. We love you guys."