Designated Survivor season 2 episode 11 Recap and FAQ

Episode Summary

President Kirkman struggles with his role due to the grief over his wife's death, impacting his decision-making. The Cuban initiative, aimed at improving U.S.-Cuba relations, faces a setback when a U.S. delegation, including Aaron Shore, is kidnapped by rebels demanding a $500 million ransom. Agent Wells, on probation, plays a key role in the crisis. Kirkman initially considers paying the ransom but opts for military intervention, marking a return to decisive leadership. The crisis ends with the hostages' rescue and revelations of a collusion between Phillip Cross and President Ortega. Kirkman confronts his wife's killer, reflecting his ongoing journey through grief.

Full Episode S02E11 Recap

### President Kirkman's Grief and Political Challenges - **President Kirkman Grapples with Grief**: Kirkman is seen struggling with the loss of his wife, Alex. His personal grief is affecting his decision-making abilities as the President. - **Therapy Sessions**: Kirkman attends therapy sessions but is resistant, especially when the topic of his wife's death is raised. The therapist pushes him to confront his grief. - **Political Stagnation**: His advisors express concern over Kirkman's lack of action on key policies and international trips, fearing a "ghost presidency." ### The Cuban Initiative and Hostage Crisis - **Cuban Trade Mission**: Kirkman launches a Cuban initiative, hoping to improve bilateral relations. However, the mission faces criticism for engaging with President Ortega. - **Hostage Situation**: A delegation including National Security Advisor Aaron Shore is kidnapped in Cuba by General Ramon Bravo and his rebels. They demand a $500 million ransom. - **Internal Politics**: Tensions rise in the White House as advisors and officials debate the best course of action, with options ranging from military intervention to paying the ransom. ### Agent Wells' Probation and the Cuban Operation - **Agent Hannah Wells on Probation**: Following an internal review regarding the shooting of Damian Rennett, Agent Wells is put on probation but remains a key player in handling the Cuban situation. - **On-the-Ground Dynamics**: In Cuba, the hostages, including Aaron Shore and Phillip Cross, face life-threatening situations. Cross tries to negotiate with Bravo, but Wells signals a warning to the U.S. forces. ### Kirkman's Decision and Resolution - **Presidential Decision**: Kirkman initially leans towards paying the ransom but eventually decides against it, opting for a military solution. This marks a significant shift in his approach, showing a return to decisive leadership. - **Resolution of Hostage Crisis**: The U.S. military intervenes, and the hostages are rescued. Revelations about Phillip Cross and President Ortega's collusion in staging the crisis emerge, leading to Ortega's downfall. ### Personal Reflections and Confrontations - **Confronting the Past**: Kirkman visits Evan Beeman, the man responsible for his wife's death, in prison, expressing his enduring pain and loss. - **Kirkman's Healing Process**: The episode highlights Kirkman's journey through grief, indicating a gradual move towards healing and reclaiming his role as a decisive leader.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is President Kirkman struggling in his role?

President Kirkman is dealing with the grief of losing his wife, which affects his decision-making as President.

What is the Cuban initiative about?

The Cuban initiative is aimed at improving bilateral relations between the U.S. and Cuba.

Who kidnaps the U.S. delegation in Cuba?

General Ramon Bravo and his rebels kidnap the delegation, demanding a $500 million ransom.

What is Agent Hannah Wells' status in the FBI?

Agent Wells is on probation following an internal review regarding the shooting of Damian Rennett.

How does President Kirkman initially plan to handle the hostage situation?

Kirkman initially considers paying the ransom to resolve the hostage crisis.

What changes Kirkman's mind about the ransom?

Kirkman decides against paying the ransom and opts for a military solution, indicating a return to decisive leadership.

What is revealed about Phillip Cross and President Ortega?

It is revealed that Phillip Cross and President Ortega colluded in staging the hostage crisis.

How is the hostage situation resolved?

The U.S. military intervenes, and the hostages are successfully rescued.

What personal confrontation does Kirkman have towards the end of the episode?

Kirkman confronts Evan Beeman in prison, the man responsible for his wife's death.

What does the episode indicate about Kirkman's healing process?

The episode shows

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Grief