Netflix in talks to save cancelled ABC drama Designated Survivor

The swinging axe isn't the death knell it once was for TV shows

With cancelled sitcom Brooklyn Nine-Nine saved by NBC and the resurrection of sci-fi series The Expanse looking increasingly likely, it seems Designated Survivor may be next on the list.

Netflix is reportedly considering pulling the political thriller from the brink, something which is dependent on whether it can nab the show's US streaming rights from Hulu.

The drama stars Kiefer Sutherland as a low-level cabinet member who becomes president after a terrorist attack wipes out the country's top officials.

Its first two seasons, which aired on ABC, can be streamed on Netflix internationally.

According to Deadline, talks are still said to be in the “preliminary” stages, however, it provides fresh hope for a show that despite its middling ratings racked up a strong fan-base.

The news comes days after it was revealed that Amazon is in official talks to bring back The Expanse whose cancellation by Syfy caused an uproar from devoted fans.

Joining these resuscitated shows is Tim Allen sitcom Last Man Standing which is to be brought back by Fox one year after being cancelled by ABC.

Another show at the centre of a dedicated petition is Lucifer which is to get two final episodes to wrap things up, perhaps minimising the campaign's chance of success.