Designated Survivor is a gripping political thriller that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats with every episode. The show revolves around Tom Kirkman, a low-ranking government official who suddenly becomes President of the United States after an attack on the Capitol kills everyone ahead of him in the presidential line of succession. As he navigates the complexities of the political world, Tom also has to deal with personal challenges, especially the loss of his wife, Alex Kirkman. This heartbreaking moment marks a turning point in the show’s narrative, and many viewers often ask: In which episode does Tom Kirkman’s wife die?
In this article, we’ll explore the storyline behind Alex Kirkman’s death, discuss the events leading up to it, and look at how it impacts the main characters, particularly President Kirkman. We will also examine the significance of this moment in the series and why it’s one of the most emotional and defining moments in Designated Survivor.
The Impact of Alex Kirkman’s Death on Designated Survivor
Alex Kirkman, played by Natascha McElhone, is not just the wife of President Tom Kirkman; she is also a central character who plays an essential role in the show’s early seasons. As Tom’s supportive and loving wife, Alex provides him with a sense of stability and comfort in an otherwise chaotic environment. Together, they navigate the challenges of Tom suddenly being thrust into the presidency, dealing with the aftermath of a terrorist attack, and trying to maintain some sense of normalcy for their family.
However, Alex’s sudden and tragic death is one of the most emotionally charged moments in the entire series. It significantly alters Tom’s journey and adds a new layer of complexity to his role as president. But what episode does Alex die, and how does it affect the storyline?
The Episode Where Alex Kirkman Dies
Alex Kirkman’s death happens in the final episode of Designated Survivor’s second season, titled “2.21: Run”. This episode first aired on May 16, 2018, and it is one of the most dramatic and shocking moments in the series.
In this episode, Alex is caught in a violent and unexpected turn of events that leaves her mortally wounded. Throughout the episode, there are moments of tension as the characters deal with political struggles, betrayals, and personal losses. However, the death of Alex is the most heart-wrenching moment, overshadowing all the other events.
Alex’s death occurs in a car accident after she is shot while driving in a confrontation involving her husband, Tom. She is rushed to the hospital, but unfortunately, despite the best efforts of doctors, she succumbs to her injuries. Her death sends shockwaves through the entire series, and the emotional impact on President Kirkman is immediate and overwhelming.
Why Did Alex’s Death Happen?
Alex Kirkman’s death was a decision made by the show’s creators, and it had a significant narrative purpose. Natascha McElhone, who portrayed Alex, had a multi-season contract with the show but eventually decided to leave Designated Survivor after the second season. This prompted the writers to create a dramatic exit for her character, one that would not only affect Tom emotionally but also shift the storyline’s direction.
The choice to kill off Alex was bold, but it provided a powerful storytelling opportunity. The loss of a loved one is a deeply personal experience, and for Tom Kirkman, it becomes a central focus of his character’s development going forward. His grief and the emotional toll it takes on him set the stage for some of the most intense moments in the series.
The Aftermath: How Alex’s Death Affects the Kirkman Family
After Alex’s death, the Kirkman family is left in a state of shock and grief. Tom’s relationship with his children, Leo and Penny, also begins to shift. As they try to cope with their loss, Tom’s role as president becomes even more complicated.
In the aftermath of Alex’s death, Tom is faced with a new set of challenges. His ability to lead the country is questioned, and his personal life begins to unravel. He struggles with the weight of his responsibilities, both as the President of the United States and as a father trying to raise his children alone. This event also changes the dynamics within Tom’s inner circle, as his staff, including characters like Seth Wright and Hannah Wells, must help him navigate the emotional and political turbulence.
For viewers, Alex’s death adds an emotional layer to Tom’s character, making his journey more personal and relatable. The pain of losing his wife becomes a focal point for his character’s growth and his decisions throughout the rest of the series.
The Significance of Alex’s Death in the Show’s Narrative
Alex Kirkman’s death is not just a plot twist—it serves as a catalyst for many of the major developments in Designated Survivor’s later seasons. The event deepens the political intrigue and increases the emotional stakes for Tom as he continues to govern the country.
Her death shifts the tone of the show, adding more personal drama and human emotion to what was previously a politically charged narrative. It also sets the stage for Tom to face more complex decisions, both on the political front and in his personal life. In particular, his relationship with his children is affected, and he must learn how to balance his presidential duties with his role as a single father.
Additionally, Alex’s death opens up the possibility for new characters and plotlines. Tom’s grief is something that shapes his character arc, allowing for deeper exploration of his leadership style, decision-making process, and emotional struggles. His journey after her death is one of recovery, resilience, and learning to live with the loss of someone who was so central to his life.
The Impact of Alex Kirkman’s Death on the Fans
The death of Alex Kirkman was a pivotal moment for fans of the show. For many viewers, Alex was a beloved character, and her death left a deep emotional impact. Fans were not only shocked by the unexpected nature of her death but also by how it affected the other characters, especially Tom.
The emotional response to Alex’s death was intense, with many viewers expressing their sorrow on social media and online forums. Some fans even felt that the show lost a significant part of its emotional core after Alex’s departure. However, the show’s creators took this emotional weight and used it to propel the story forward, showing how Tom’s grief and loss shaped the rest of the series.
Moreover, the departure of Alex also opened up the space for new storylines, with new relationships, characters, and political struggles taking center stage. While some fans missed her presence, the show continued to captivate audiences with its mix of politics, personal drama, and suspense.
Conclusion
The death of Alex Kirkman in Designated Survivor is a defining moment in the series. Not only does it change the course of the show, but it also transforms Tom Kirkman’s character, making him more vulnerable, complex, and relatable. The emotional weight of her death resonates throughout the rest of the series, shaping Tom’s decisions and actions in the political and personal realms.
In short, Alex Kirkman dies in Season 2, Episode 21 (“Run”). Her tragic death serves as a catalyst for Tom’s character development and impacts the storyline in significant ways. Fans of the show were deeply moved by her loss, and it remains one of the most unforgettable moments in Designated Survivor’s history.
