“Designated Survivor” is a popular political thriller that kept audiences engaged with its intense storyline and intriguing characters. One of the most beloved characters in the show was Mike Ritter, the dedicated Secret Service agent who protected President Tom Kirkman. Fans grew attached to Mike because of his loyalty, bravery, and strong moral code. However, as the series progressed, many viewers noticed his absence in the third season. This article explores what happened to Mike on “Designated Survivor” and why he was missing from the final season.
Who Is Mike Ritter?
Mike Ritter, played by LaMonica Garrett, was a key character in “Designated Survivor.” He was a high-ranking Secret Service agent assigned to protect Tom Kirkman, the man who unexpectedly became President of the United States after a deadly attack on the Capitol. Throughout the first two seasons, Mike played a crucial role in ensuring Kirkman’s safety and investigating threats against the White House.
Mike was more than just a bodyguard. He was a close ally to Kirkman and often assisted in uncovering conspiracies that threatened the country. His calm demeanor, quick thinking, and fierce dedication made him one of the most reliable characters in the series.
Mike’s Role In The First Two Seasons
Mike Ritter was introduced in Season 1 as a highly skilled Secret Service agent. His job was to keep Kirkman safe at all times, especially in the chaotic days following the Capitol bombing. Mike was not just a security figure; he was also involved in uncovering the truth behind the attack. He played a key role in investigating traitors and protecting important information.
In Season 2, Mike continued his work as Kirkman’s protector. However, his role expanded beyond just security. He started conducting personal investigations and played an active part in finding spies and double agents within the government. His experience and knowledge made him one of the most valuable people in Kirkman’s circle.
Mike also had a strong personal code of ethics. He often clashed with other officials when he felt that they were not acting in the country’s best interests. This made him a fan favorite because he always stood for what was right, even if it meant going against orders.
What Happened To Mike In Season 3?
When “Designated Survivor” returned for Season 3 on Netflix, many fans were shocked to see that Mike Ritter was missing. There was no explanation given in the show about why he was no longer part of Kirkman’s team. His sudden absence left viewers with many questions.
The real reason Mike was not in Season 3 was because LaMonica Garrett, the actor who played him, was no longer part of the show. After the series was canceled by ABC and later revived by Netflix, many changes were made to the cast. Several characters from the first two seasons, including Mike Ritter, were written out of the show.
Why Did Mike Leave The Show?
There was no official statement from the show’s creators explaining why Mike Ritter was removed. However, several factors may have played a role in his departure:
- Budget Cuts – When Netflix took over “Designated Survivor,” they made significant budget reductions. This led to a smaller cast and fewer returning characters.
- New Story Direction – Season 3 focused more on Kirkman’s election campaign and social issues. The storylines shifted away from security and political conspiracies, which may have made Mike’s role less necessary.
- LaMonica Garrett’s Other Projects – Around the same time, LaMonica Garrett joined the “Arrowverse” series, appearing in “Supergirl,” “The Flash,” and “Arrow.” His commitments to these shows may have prevented him from returning to “Designated Survivor.”
Fan Reactions To Mike’s Absence
Mike Ritter was a well-loved character, and his absence in Season 3 disappointed many fans. Since there was no in-show explanation for why he was missing, viewers were left confused and frustrated. Many took to social media to express their disappointment, hoping that the show would address his absence in some way.
Some fans speculated that Mike could have been given a promotion or reassigned to another high-level security job. However, the show never confirmed what happened to him, leaving his fate open-ended.
Could Mike Have Returned If The Show Continued?
“Designated Survivor” was canceled after its third season, meaning that there was no opportunity for Mike to return. However, if the show had been renewed, there might have been a chance to bring him back. Many fans hoped for a storyline where Mike would return to assist Kirkman once again, especially in times of crisis.
Conclusion
Mike Ritter was one of the most respected and beloved characters in “Designated Survivor.” His absence in Season 3 was a major disappointment for fans who had grown attached to his strong presence and unwavering loyalty. While the show never provided an explanation for his departure, it is likely due to behind-the-scenes changes, including budget cuts and new story directions.
Even though “Designated Survivor” has ended, Mike Ritter remains a memorable part of the series. His contributions to Kirkman’s presidency and his dedication to protecting the nation made him a standout character. Fans continue to appreciate his role in the first two seasons and wish they had seen more of him before the series came to an end.
