Political Animals (2012)
Divorced former First Lady Elaine Barrish is currently serving as the Secretary of State. She finds an unlikely ally in a D.C. journalist who had previously dedicated herself to tearing Barrish to pieces.
Cast: Carla Gugino, Ellen Burstyn, Ciarán Hinds, Shawn Gonzalez, Gilbert Soto, Sigourney Weaver, Sebastian Stan, Brittany Ishibashi, Corey Brown, Erica Lynne Marszalek, Griffin Newman, Shawnee Robertson, JaQuinley Kerr
Resignation Day
In the Season 1 finale, Elaine's plan to resign hits a snag and her resignation letter leaks to the press. Elsewhere, Douglas confesses his betrayal and makes a rash decision; and a surprising event leaves everyone at a crossroads.
16 Hours
In the aftermath of T.J.’s overdose, Elaine finds herself torn between staying by her son’s side and handling the rescue of a Chinese submarine. Bud discovers the truth behind T.J.’s suicide attempt last December, and takes matters into his own hands. In exchange for keeping Susan quiet on T.J.’s overdose, Elaine grants her unlimited access to the submarine rescue mission, placing her at the front of the action, and leaving Douglas to cross a boundary that could jeopardize his future.
Lost Boys
Elaine faces a diplomatic crisis upon her return from overseas and spars with the Garcetti camp. Elsewhere, T.J. recalls the events leading up to his suicide attempt and deals with his family's disinterest in his club's opening; Anne reveals too much; and Douglas struggles to cope with his betrayal.
The Woman Problem
Elaine makes an announcement to her family; the Hammond men visit a pollster during an impromptu fishing trip; Garcetti enacts a plan that puts Elaine in conflict with her longtime mentor; and Susan shares her top-secret story with Alex.
Second Time Around
Elaine sends Bud to negotiate for the Iranian hostages, putting him back in the spotlight and interfering with Douglas' engagement party. Elsewhere, Douglas finds out Elaine plans to run for office again; T.J. turns back to old habits and hits a new low.
Pilot
Drama focusing on the political and private lives of former first family members. In the opener, the Secretary of State tries to protect a dark family secret and deals with a hostage crisis in Iran.