You know that feeling when you finally have a free weekend and just want to watch Kiefer Sutherland save the world from a massive conspiracy? I get it. Designated Survivor is one of those shows that hooks you immediately. One minute Tom Kirkman is a low-level HUD Secretary eating pizza, and the next, he’s the President because everyone else got blown up.
But finding a way to stream it without getting hit by a "Start Your Free Trial" button every five seconds? That's the tricky part.
Honestly, the streaming landscape for this show has been a bit of a mess. It started on ABC, got canceled, and then Netflix swooped in to save it for a third season before finally pulling the plug for good. Because it's technically a "Netflix Original" now, you’d think it would be locked behind a paywall forever.
Thankfully, that’s not entirely true anymore.
Where can I watch Designated Survivor for free right now?
If you are looking for a legal, no-strings-attached way to watch, there is actually a legitimate "Free TV" option that most people overlook.
Lionsgate has launched dedicated "Fast Channels" (Free Ad-supported Streaming TV) on several platforms. Specifically, there is a Designated Survivor Channel that runs 24/7. It functions like old-school cable—you can’t always pick the exact episode you want to start with, but it is 100% free and totally legal.
The best places to find the free 24/7 channel:
- Philo Free Channels: You don't even need a credit card or a subscription for this. Philo has a "free" tier now that includes the Designated Survivor live channel. It’s basically just tuning in and watching whatever episode is playing.
- The Roku Channel: They’ve carried the show in their live TV guide intermittently. Just search "Designated Survivor" in the Roku search bar.
- Plex and Tubi: These platforms frequently update their "Live TV" sections. While the show isn't always available "on-demand" for free here, it often pops up in the rotation of their thriller or drama-themed live channels.
The Netflix "Free" Loophole (Kind of)
Okay, let's be real. The best way to watch the show—with the ability to pause, skip, and binge in order—is still Netflix. They own all three seasons.
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Since you’re searching for where can i watch designated survivor for free, you probably don't want to pay $15.49 a month.
Netflix doesn't really do the 30-day free trial anymore in most countries. However, they occasionally offer "limited-time" free access to certain episodes of their original series to hook new viewers. Usually, this happens through their YouTube channel or a special "Watch Free" landing page. It’s rare for a show as old as Designated Survivor, but it's worth a five-second check on their official YouTube "Full Episodes" playlist.
Another thing? T-Mobile and some internet providers still bundle Netflix "On Us." If you or a family member has a specific mobile plan, you might already have a free Netflix account sitting there unused. It’s worth a look at your monthly bill.
Why you should avoid those "Free Movie" sites
I know, I know. You've seen the sites like Putlocker or those random "freetv-streaming.xyz" links.
Kinda tempting, right?
Don't do it. Seriously. These sites are basically a playground for malware and phishing. Most of the time, the "Play" button is just a giant invisible ad that tries to download a "video player update" which is actually just a virus that wants to steal your banking info.
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If you're desperate and decide to go down the "grey area" route with something like Kodi, at least use a solid VPN. But even then, the quality is usually garbage and the streams cut out right when the FBI is about to find the traitor. It ruins the vibe.
Is the show available on YouTube or Prime?
Technically, yes, but not for "free" in the way you're hoping. You can buy individual episodes or full seasons on Amazon Prime Video or Apple TV.
Usually, it's about $1.99 an episode.
Is it worth it? If you only have $5 and just want to see the pilot and the crazy Season 1 finale, maybe. But if you're planning to watch all 53 episodes, buying them individually is a fast way to go broke.
The "Library" Secret (The OG Free Method)
This is the most "boomer" advice I can give, but it actually works.
Check your local library.
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Most public libraries carry DVD box sets of major shows like Designated Survivor. If they don't have it on the shelf, they can usually order it from another branch for you. Many libraries also give you access to an app called Hoopla or Kanopy. While these apps usually focus on indie films and documentaries, they sometimes strike deals for older network dramas. It’s a completely legal way to get high-quality video for $0.
What most people get wrong about Season 3
If you do find a way to watch the show, be prepared for the "Netflix shift."
The first two seasons aired on ABC and had that classic network TV feel—think The West Wing meets 24. It’s relatively clean, fast-paced, and has about 22 episodes per season.
When Netflix took over for Season 3, things changed.
The episode count dropped to 10, the swearing increased significantly (President Kirkman finally gets to use some "choice" words), and the tone got way darker. Some fans hated it. Others loved that it felt more "real." Just a heads up so you don't get whiplash when you finally get to the final stretch.
Final verdict on free options
If you want to start watching where can i watch designated survivor for free right this second:
- Open Philo or The Roku Channel and check their "Live TV" or "Fast Channels" section for the 24/7 Designated Survivor stream.
- Check your mobile or internet plan to see if you have a "Netflix on Us" perk you forgot to activate.
- Use a legitimate trial of a service like Philo if they are currently offering a 7-day window.
To get started, download the Philo or Roku app on your smart TV and search "Designated Survivor" in the live guide. This is the only way to watch without paying a dime while staying on the right side of the law. Once you find the channel, you can usually see the schedule for the next few hours to see if they're starting from the pilot or deep into the conspiracy.