In the political thriller series Designated Survivor, Mike Ritter is a key character who plays an important role throughout the show. He is introduced in the very first episode as a Secret Service agent. From the beginning, Mike shows that he is loyal, calm, and professional. He is assigned to protect Tom Kirkman, who unexpectedly becomes President of the United States after a deadly attack on the Capitol.
Mike is portrayed by actor LaMonica Garrett. His performance brings depth and strength to the role. Mike is more than just a bodyguard. He becomes a trusted advisor and friend to President Kirkman. His job is to keep the President safe, but over time, he becomes a part of Kirkman’s inner circle.
The Role Of Mike In The Series
Mike’s role in Designated Survivor is more than protection. He often helps investigate threats and uncover secrets that others might miss. He works closely with the FBI and other government agents. His skills in security, strategy, and observation make him a valuable asset.
He also has a very serious personality. While other characters may show emotion or express doubt, Mike remains focused. He rarely shows fear or weakness. This makes him a reliable and steady presence during chaos and crisis.
Many fans appreciated his strong moral compass. Mike never strays from his duty. He often puts the safety of the President above his own life. This selflessness adds to his appeal and makes viewers care about him deeply.
A Loyal Protector To The End
Throughout the first and second seasons, Mike is almost always seen by Kirkman’s side. He is loyal and never questions his duty. Even when the President faces political scandals, assassination attempts, and family issues, Mike remains firm.
He also forms close relationships with other characters, such as Hannah Wells, an FBI agent. They sometimes work together to solve cases. Although they have different roles, both are committed to justice and truth.
Mike does not seek praise or attention. He is not a flashy hero. He is quiet but effective. That’s part of why many fans love him.
What Happens In Season 3?
Season 3 of Designated Survivor brings some changes to the show. The tone becomes more focused on political issues, including healthcare, immigration, and drug policy. Some characters leave, and new ones are introduced.
Mike Ritter, however, is not in Season 3. His absence is noticeable. Fans who watched the first two seasons may wonder what happened to him. Why isn’t he there? Did something happen to him?
This question became a popular topic among fans online. Many searched for answers. Did Mike Ritter die? Was he written out of the show? Did the actor leave for another role?
So, When Does Mike Die In Designated Survivor?
The simple answer is this: Mike Ritter does not die in Designated Survivor. He disappears from the story after Season 2, but his death is never shown. There is no scene that shows his final moments. There is no funeral. No characters talk about him dying.
This caused confusion for many viewers. When a major character disappears without explanation, it can feel strange. Fans often expect closure. In Mike’s case, the show does not offer that.
Why Did Mike Leave The Show?
There is no official in-story reason given for Mike’s absence. The writers never explain what happened to him. However, behind the scenes, there are a few possible reasons.
First, the show switched platforms. The first two seasons aired on ABC, but Netflix took over for Season 3. With that change came a shift in tone and cast. Some characters were removed to make room for new storylines.
Second, actor LaMonica Garrett got cast in another major role. He played The Monitor in the Arrowverse, a set of superhero shows on The CW. This may have made it hard for him to continue on Designated Survivor.
Because of these reasons, Mike’s character was dropped from the show. But again, he does not die. He is simply no longer part of the story.
The Impact Of His Absence
Mike’s absence in Season 3 was felt by many fans. Without him, President Kirkman lacked a strong, silent protector. Some viewers said that the show lost part of its heart. Mike added a sense of trust, stability, and loyalty that was missing in the final season.
New bodyguards were introduced, but none had the same presence as Mike. They did their jobs, but they didn’t have the same connection with the President or the audience.
Some fans hoped he might return in a surprise episode. Others wished for a quick mention of where he went. But the show moved on without giving those answers.
Fan Reactions And Theories
Fans of Designated Survivor have shared many theories about Mike’s fate. Since he didn’t die on screen, they imagined what might have happened.
Some believe he took a new assignment, maybe overseas. Others think he might have retired. A few fans joked that he simply “walked away” after seeing too much drama in the White House.
Online forums are filled with appreciation for his character. Many say Mike Ritter was their favorite. They loved his strength, loyalty, and sense of calm. His disappearance left a hole in the show.
Mike Ritter’s Legacy
Even though Mike doesn’t appear in Season 3, his legacy remains. For many fans, he is one of the most memorable parts of the series. His calm, protective nature left a lasting impression.
He never betrayed the President. He never made selfish choices. He always did what was right. That kind of character is rare in political dramas. Most characters are complex and sometimes corrupt. But Mike was different. He was steady, loyal, and good.
Some fans still hope for a spin-off series that shows what happened to him. Others simply remember him as one of the best bodyguards on TV.
LaMonica Garrett’s Other Work
After Designated Survivor, actor LaMonica Garrett continued to find success. His role as The Monitor in Arrow, The Flash, and other CW shows brought him new fans. He also starred in 1883, a prequel to Yellowstone, where he played Thomas, a Pinkerton agent.
In each role, he brings strength and presence. He plays men of action, often with a serious, thoughtful edge. It’s easy to see why casting directors choose him for powerful roles.
Although fans miss him in Designated Survivor, many enjoy seeing him in other shows.
Would Mike Have Survived Season 3?
If Mike had stayed in the show, it’s likely he would have continued to protect Kirkman. His skill set and moral strength would have made him useful in Season 3’s more political plots.
He might have helped handle security around controversial events. He could have advised Kirkman during campaign troubles. And he would have been a strong support system when things got tough.
His presence might have brought balance to the more intense, dramatic tone of Season 3.
Final Thoughts
Mike Ritter never dies in Designated Survivor. He simply disappears from the show after Season 2, without explanation. While this left many fans confused and disappointed, it also allowed the actor to take on new roles.
His time on the show left a strong impression. He was more than just a bodyguard. He was a trusted friend, a loyal protector, and a quiet hero. His absence in Season 3 made many fans realize just how important he had been.
Though the series has ended, Mike Ritter lives on in the hearts of fans who admired his quiet strength and unwavering loyalty.
