Fans of political thrillers like Designated Survivor often crave similar narratives with strong, compelling characters. While Designated Survivor itself features a diverse cast, viewers looking for shows with prominent Black characters in leading or significant supporting roles have several excellent options. This list explores shows that offer similar high-stakes political scenarios, intricate plots, and compelling characters, but with a focus on showcasing Black talent at the forefront.
Beyond the White House: Exploring Diverse Political Dramas
Finding shows that mirror the intensity and political intrigue of Designated Survivor while centering Black characters requires a nuanced search. Many shows touch on political themes, but fewer place Black characters at the heart of the narrative. This exploration focuses on shows that offer a comparable level of suspense and character depth, ensuring a satisfying viewing experience for fans of the genre.
Shows with Strong Black Leads in Political Narratives:
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For the People (2018): While not strictly a political thriller in the vein of Designated Survivor, For the People offers a compelling look at the legal system and the personal struggles of young federal public defenders and prosecutors in Los Angeles. The show features diverse characters, including strong Black leads navigating complex cases and interpersonal relationships within a high-stakes environment.
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The Good Wife (2009-2016) and The Good Fight (2017-Present): These legal dramas boast incredibly diverse casts, with several recurring and significant characters who are Black. While not solely focused on the political sphere, they often tackle relevant social and political issues, providing nuanced portrayals of Black characters within the legal world—a sphere intertwined with politics.
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Scandal (2012-2018): A prime-time favorite known for its fast-paced plot twists and turns, Scandal features numerous Black characters in pivotal roles. While the show's central focus isn't explicitly political, the characters' involvement in political maneuvering and crisis management makes it a close thematic cousin to Designated Survivor.
Expanding the Search: Dramas with Similar Intrigue:
While the following shows might not directly mirror the premise of Designated Survivor, they provide similar levels of suspense, character development, and high-stakes scenarios with noteworthy Black characters:
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Bosch (2014-2021): This crime drama series, while not overtly political, features a compelling central character, Harry Bosch, and explores the complex underbelly of Los Angeles’s political and criminal justice systems. While the main character is white, the series boasts a diverse supporting cast, including several strong Black characters playing crucial roles.
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Queen Sugar (2016-2022): While not a political thriller, Queen Sugar explores family dynamics, business ventures, and community life in the context of Louisiana's rural landscape. It weaves in themes of race, justice, and resilience, providing a compelling portrayal of Black characters' agency and strength.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Diverse Political Dramas
The television landscape is constantly evolving, and we can expect to see more diverse representation in the genres previously dominated by predominantly white casts. The demand for authentic and compelling stories featuring Black characters in leading roles is growing, prompting networks and streaming services to invest in narratives that accurately reflect the complex realities of our world. Keep an eye out for upcoming shows that promise to deliver the same level of suspense and political intrigue as Designated Survivor, but with a refreshing focus on diverse narratives.
This exploration provides a starting point for those seeking shows similar to Designated Survivor with a focus on Black characters. While no single show perfectly replicates the specific premise, these options offer a range of compelling narratives featuring strong Black characters within high-stakes environments.
