Commander in Chief

:

Season 1
  • Network: ABC
  • Series Premiere Date: Sep 27, 2005
User Score
8.4

Universal acclaim- based on 217 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 183 out of 217
  2. Mixed: 6 out of 217
  3. Negative: 28 out of 217
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User Reviews

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  1. AmyH
    Apr 27, 2006
    10
    My favorite show. Too bad our current CIC doesn't have the same convictions.
  2. DonnaJ
    May 11, 2006
    10
    I really enjoyed this show. I hope you reconsider and keep this show going. I'm with Brenda " Quit teasing us and bring it back!!!!!!!!"
  3. LindseyS
    May 11, 2006
    10
    I feel like I'm being tortured by ABC. Good grief! Bring the darned thing back!
  4. LizH
    May 11, 2006
    10
    It is very refreshing to see a show give a woman a roll that is interesting, knowledgeable and holding her own in a man's world, I am 82 years old and I hope to see a woman as president before I leave this earth.
  5. ll
    May 14, 2006
    10
    this is an incredibly powerful program in which issues with the current US administration and different ways to handle them are explored. It was also wonderful seeing a woman in the most powerful role in the US.
  6. AlG
    May 15, 2006
    10
    Wow! Big mistake taking CIC off the air. Great casting; great stories; excellent directing. I've been looking forward to the show every Tuesday evening (and Thursday nights too) since the first episode aired in September '05. Maybe move the show back to 9 o'clock. Thanks.
  7. SteveC
    May 16, 2006
    10
    second favorite show on TV behind House. Was my favorite until they started messing with the schedule. Bring it back if it is cancelled and quit messing with the schedule and stop taking breaks.
  8. ConnieC
    May 22, 2006
    10
    jPlease bring Commander-inChief back! It's one of the highlights of my TV watching week. It seems you've done all you can to do this show in - moving day and time arbitrarily, and taking it off altogether for weeks at a time. How can you keep an audience this way? I'm about ot gilve up on the networks. Reality shows replace creativity, is that it? Please don't cancel jPlease bring Commander-inChief back! It's one of the highlights of my TV watching week. It seems you've done all you can to do this show in - moving day and time arbitrarily, and taking it off altogether for weeks at a time. How can you keep an audience this way? I'm about ot gilve up on the networks. Reality shows replace creativity, is that it? Please don't cancel this show!… Expand
  9. DHenson
    May 23, 2006
    10
    This was an excellent TV show. It sure beats all these so called reality programs.
  10. JulieM
    May 29, 2006
    10
    This is a great show. Please do not take it off the air.
  11. NicoleS
    May 31, 2006
    10
    A woman as president? What more is there that you need to know?! Baby steps are better than no steps at all.
  12. LaceyS
    May 31, 2006
    10
    The show was great. Strong caractors excellent story line. I looked forward to watching it.
  13. BrendaJ
    May 4, 2006
    10
    Commander in Chief is the best show, Geenda Davis makes a great President and come on Donald Sutherland makses the best bad guy in town. Come on and quit teasing us and bring the show back!!!!!!
  14. ToshiaY
    Jun 11, 2006
    10
    Love it, love it, love it
  15. JodyL.
    Jun 13, 2006
    10
    Can't believe this excellent show is being cancelled and yet all those ridiculous reality shows go on and on!
  16. SamsonH
    Jun 14, 2006
    10
    Great, because it has lots of aspects ... political (president), emotional (the First Gentleman), teen-angst soap (the twin kids), and ... what West Wing was missing ... a real villian (Mr. Speaker, Donald Sutherland)
  17. christiner
    Jun 16, 2006
    9
    one of the most innovative, intelligent shows out there!
  18. JustinC
    Jun 22, 2006
    10
    Great Show!
  19. SyntiaA
    Jun 22, 2006
    10
    Commander in Chief is one of the best show I've seen in ABC... I usually watch FOX, but lately you've been doing well. Do not stop now by cancelling CiC.
  20. willieboy
    Jun 22, 2006
    6
    I would have given a 7, but then I saw the last episode: The President (Gina Davis) decides her lasting legacy as she leaves office will be the reinstatement of the failed ERA Amendment. She grows nostalgic and misty-eyed about NOW (the National Organization for Women) and is overcome with emotion as she breathlessly reminds her press secretary, 'They changed the world!' I I would have given a 7, but then I saw the last episode: The President (Gina Davis) decides her lasting legacy as she leaves office will be the reinstatement of the failed ERA Amendment. She grows nostalgic and misty-eyed about NOW (the National Organization for Women) and is overcome with emotion as she breathlessly reminds her press secretary, 'They changed the world!' I nearly fell over laughing... The show has been canceled--at no loss to the public forum.… Expand
  21. BrianH
    Jun 29, 2006
    0
    I was offended by the whole idea of a woman as president. This is a communist-hollywood experiment that is a fundamental threat to American Democracy. We need Joe McCarthy again. If this Show is cancelled, I say good ridance. All we have to deal with is the bitter memories that will haunt us forever.
  22. TomB
    Jun 3, 2006
    10
    Great show! Interesting scenario. It's a shame it's been cancelled, especially considering some of the shows that were not!
  23. ArturoH
    Jul 17, 2006
    9
    sometimes it is excellent
  24. ROBERTH
    Jul 21, 2006
    10
    Its my favorite program,but who cares.Its a clean and decent show for the whole family.We need more decent shows for the entire family.Im about ready to pitch tv set in the trash.
  25. EmilyB
    Jul 22, 2006
    10
    I really enjoyed this show and looked forward to each episode. I am very disapointed that it was given so short a run.
  26. MartinS
    Aug 27, 2006
    1
    Anybody who watched the West Wing knows what a complete joke this show was. Thank god it was canceled before the next presidential election. I honestly believe it would have damaged Hillary's chances.
  27. JasonM
    Aug 27, 2006
    10
    For the first time in a long time I felt proud to be an American, although it was only a show, it made you feel proud of your country all over again. I would wait all week for this show to be on, they claim that the show had ratings drops, that was only because of the long time of it being off the air due to the olympics and then the time and day changes that were made. Please ABC bring For the first time in a long time I felt proud to be an American, although it was only a show, it made you feel proud of your country all over again. I would wait all week for this show to be on, they claim that the show had ratings drops, that was only because of the long time of it being off the air due to the olympics and then the time and day changes that were made. Please ABC bring this show back or sell the rights to another network.… Expand
  28. JoC
    Aug 28, 2006
    10
    its a really good show
  29. mariae
    Nov 10, 2005
    10
    Geena Davis is an amazing actress w/ brains beauty and talent! this show is awesome!!! gotta love her!
  30. SeanL
    Nov 1, 2005
    9
    This is a fantastic show... it can be a little corny and is definitely over-dramatic (with a new world disaster happening every week) but it's great television.
  31. AnaC
    Nov 14, 2005
    10
    Geena Davis, amazing!! It takes some acting skills to pull off bieng the first female president of tht US, and she does it radiantly....If you expected a heavy political show, this is not the one for you. However, I find the story lines fascinating, watching the president jugle her duties as president, as mom with rebel teenagers, and a jealous husband.
  32. MillieH
    Nov 21, 2005
    2
    This is the worst show ever.
  33. JoyF
    Nov 2, 2005
    10
    This is a fantastic new show-- Geena Davis as "Mac" makes a convincing president -- she has the look, the brains, and the finesse. Her role as a mother suffers, however, and her role as a wife is iffy. Goos tension with Donal Sutherland (Templeton). This is the best new TV series on the air.
  34. RDent
    Oct 17, 2005
    4
    This show is pretty thin on content, especially when companred to a real political drama like The West Wing. It's not that Davis doesn't try, it's that she's trying too hard. On the one hand, the series is constantly repeating the fact that Mac is the first female president (over and over again until even us women's libbers are sick of it, and is it a coincidence This show is pretty thin on content, especially when companred to a real political drama like The West Wing. It's not that Davis doesn't try, it's that she's trying too hard. On the one hand, the series is constantly repeating the fact that Mac is the first female president (over and over again until even us women's libbers are sick of it, and is it a coincidence that her nickname, Mac, is pretty darn masculine?), but on the flip side, they consistently make reference to how demeaning it is for her husband to be the First Spouse (apparently, such a role insults his masculinity and should be reserved for women.) And the writing is just awful. I mean, did anyone bother to proof read this thing?? In her first speech to a joint session of Congress, Mac says, "But soon we have to return to the future..." Unless you're Michael J Fox, you can't return to somewhere you've never been. Hey Mac, a suggestion - get Toby and Sam on your Communications team. Bartlett never would have made a junior mistake like that.… Expand
  35. DianaL
    Nov 8, 2005
    10
    excellent show tjust the way politics are
  36. mary
    Oct 18, 2005
    10
    Finally, a show about a woman in command. Who has intelligence, grace, dignity, respect, & loves her family. Keep up the great work. Drfinitely a 'must see' on my weekday schedule.
  37. ManlyB
    Dec 17, 2005
    10
    Well written, actors Geena Davis and Donald Southland are great and my wife and I watch it faithfully every Tuesday. Hope this series continues for a long time.
  38. jonr
    Dec 3, 2005
    10
    Brilliant. Love geena
  39. PabloG
    Dec 30, 2005
    5
    After only 4 chapters (downloaded to my ipod) and being a "West Wing" fan, all I can said is that the script is poor for making handling of political problems so easy. I am not a US citizen and the way this series is handling international conflicts is like a dream, the true is what everybody knows (Irak, etc). I gave a 5 to the series because the great performance of characters.
  40. GlendaJ
    Dec 6, 2005
    10
    We love everything about this show EXCEPT for the excessive advertising that constantly interrupts the flow. We're often gone when the show is aired and must tape it. The number and length of commericals is amazing, so we can watch the taped show in about 40 miinutes.
  41. JanW
    Dec 6, 2005
    10
    Geena Davis is excellent in her executive role, very believable (intelligent, thoughtful, decisive, and her gestures and facial expressions are so gracious - she is a delight to see in action! I have not been hooked on a show in (many) years, and ... this one got me! Donald Sutherland has always been a favorite actor of mine. His role is despicable and makes one want to totally hate him - Geena Davis is excellent in her executive role, very believable (intelligent, thoughtful, decisive, and her gestures and facial expressions are so gracious - she is a delight to see in action! I have not been hooked on a show in (many) years, and ... this one got me! Donald Sutherland has always been a favorite actor of mine. His role is despicable and makes one want to totally hate him - which just reinforces my belief … Expand
  42. LisaH
    Dec 8, 2005
    10
    I think this is an excellent show. I do not normally watch TV but I don't miss an episode. I think Gena Davis has created a very believable and sympathetic character who is definitely up to the job. I love the way in which she juggles her role as president with her rold as wife and mother.
  43. LauraL
    Dec 8, 2005
    9
    This is a gripping show that will shed some light on the issue of women being in power.
  44. PeterM
    Oct 13, 2006
    9
    best entertainment I have seen in years ( and I am old)
  45. PrudenceK
    Jan 29, 2006
    0
    Worst show on TV. Geena Davis is simply awful.
  46. RickeyB
    Mar 12, 2006
    10
    This has the real glitches of any Political endeavor built in to the fabric of this show.
  47. JohnV
    Mar 22, 2006
    10
    ABC's 'Commander In Chief' portrays perfectly the many aspects of the political challenges involved with the position of president. Its controversial perspective of a woman and a Liberate as President of the United States is not only intriguingly entertaining, but also an influential realization that differs from what our nation is used to when it comes to the presidency.
  48. carmens
    Apr 19, 2006
    10
    my family favorite show, it is not a fairytale, it is an upcoming reality.
  49. AnnE
    Apr 26, 2006
    10
    Best show on TV. We enjoy watching it. Thank you for putting it back on the air. It is very interesting watching a Lady and a perfect one in Geena Davis portraying President of U.S. I think it is entertaining and as well as the showing us the realization of a woman in the White House and how great it could be. The acting is superb on Geena's and Donald's part as well.
  50. LarryH
    Apr 26, 2006
    9
    One of the best shows on television and one of the only reasons for turning on the TV. This political drama is intelligent and has relevance to our society. Even though ABC doesn't poll me, I think sponsors of the show might be interested to know that there might be more viewers than polls show.
  51. JoeS
    May 12, 2006
    10
    This show should be gaining the crowd from the West WIng and keeping its already captive audience. Instead of cancelling I would have advertised and bright in a strong new season this fall, leaving the spring with a good finale, of course. Too bad!
  52. GregB
    May 16, 2006
    8
    This is a new program, like all new programs, it will take a while to get the writers niche, KEEP IT GOING!
  53. MatthewS
    May 25, 2006
    10
    i love this new tv show full of action and drama
  54. tylerd
    May 26, 2006
    10
    GREAT SHOW. ABC really messed this one up big time!
  55. RobinH
    May 31, 2006
    10
    I agree with everyone who is complaining about the breaks! It was one of my favorites I am very disapointed!
  56. RaiTriceW
    Jun 12, 2006
    10
    i love this show, it is perhaps the best show that i've ever watched and to hear that it might be cancelled is very disappointing, it is a great show because it empowers women and gives women convidence and makes them feel like a women of worth, that anything really is posible. i stoped watching one of my favorite tv shows for this show and i dont wanna see this one end just yet.
  57. TiikTiik
    Jun 14, 2006
    10
    This is the best show going, along with The Closer. I am crushed that it is being canceled. Can we petition ABC? All of my friends are upset. Really, no one can believe it. the show is just getting it's sea legs....and doing a great job of that. The character relationships are excellent and exciting to watch develop. Geena Davis is amazing as President, and the first woman president. This is the best show going, along with The Closer. I am crushed that it is being canceled. Can we petition ABC? All of my friends are upset. Really, no one can believe it. the show is just getting it's sea legs....and doing a great job of that. The character relationships are excellent and exciting to watch develop. Geena Davis is amazing as President, and the first woman president. She is the perfect actor for this role. I believe her. She IS the President. The dynamic with her husband is VERY real. The Donald Sutherland character is so divinely egomaniacal, he annoys the "H" out of me and I love hating him. The politics they tackle are thrilling and soooo on time. Hey...is there any conspiracy here? Are the Bushy's shutting it down? Are they threatened because Geena Davis is such a great President, so much better than Bush? So they call ABC and put the screws on? Hmmmmmmm!!!! Well, Hoover is not around anymore, yet it does make me wonder because of the intense topics the show has broached. After the one they did on how to handle a foreign hostage crisis I thought the Bushy's might call ABC and have a nice "chat".… Expand
  58. LeeH
    Jun 15, 2006
    10
    What a mistake to take this show off the air. There is so much garbage on with all the Reality shows (except for the talent shows) and you want to take this show which is so entertaining off the air. Shame on you, whoever you are. Please, please don't.
  59. RickyR
    Jun 18, 2006
    9
    It will be a shame if they cancel this show. While it isn't West Wing, it is has thought proviking moments that makes it worth while to watch. I would really rather watch this show than some silly reality tv or worse...another half-attempt at comedy that ultimately relies on canned laughter.
  60. OctavioA
    Jun 22, 2006
    10
    I like this show ... why can you give it a chance. Be bold and take a risk. I know you will not regret it.
  61. WilliamC
    Jun 22, 2006
    10
    Commander-in-cheif is one of the best shows on TV now. I am a conservative republican and I love it. Wouldn't miss it! PLease keep this excellent drama on!!
  62. JeremyM
    Jun 29, 2006
    10
    This show is absolutely Outstanding. Gina Davis is one of the best actresses to hit the screen. The story is great and I recommend it to guys who like a good kick butt show
  63. claireq
    Jul 19, 2006
    10
    This is my fave TV show I really love it. The acting is great and I Love how it shows family life of the President.
  64. billf
    Jul 24, 2006
    9
    was the smartest tv show that i've ever seen, i don't understand why was cancelled
  65. TerriO
    Aug 13, 2006
    10
    It makes no sense that they would cancel this show. Are they really listening to us? Do they really care what we want to watch? I don't think so.
  66. EfiamS
    Nov 11, 2005
    8
    Tension between Mac and foes is great. Really enjoy the great # of sub plots but on some of them the premises are to simplistic. Overall I really like it and Geena is great.
  67. KathleenC
    Nov 15, 2005
    10
    Geena Davis was born for this role. Love each episode, esp. when she ambushed Speaker Templeton! Her just instincts and unwavering integrity are an oasis of sanity for our upside down poisonous political times.
  68. amelia
    Dec 14, 2005
    10
    love it. its entertaining, interesting , and it provides the first popular image that we have of a female president. and among the few images we have of a compassionate, rational, thoughtful, decisive leader as well. fairy tale? perhaps. but media tends to lead the way to positive change, so.. we can hope that this is a step toward reality..
  69. MikeR
    Dec 19, 2005
    9
    Great theme. Geena Davis is an excellent choice for the CIC role, and lives up to anticipation; she has the right gravitas. Like the personalization of the President here, which succeeds more than West Wing (another fine show). And Donald Sutherland is the perfect Machiavellian. The difference between Davis and Dubya is startling, and we'd vote for Davis over Dubya any time.
  70. AnitaM
    Dec 27, 2005
    10
    I love it. Where is it now? Just as we were ready to settle in it's gone. I hate it when the networks do this. Start it in a time so we can plan on it. PLEASE
  71. CraigE
    Dec 28, 2005
    10
    Finally.. Television worth watching. Makes the "West Wing" production look like a day time soap.
  72. FlorenceR
    Dec 31, 2005
    8
    Refreshing to see a woman in such a powerful role. Some of the plot lines are a stretch, but overall the show is quite enjoyable.
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Awards & Rankings

37
#37 Best TV Season of 2005
6
#6 Most Discussed TV Season of 2005
45
#45 Most Shared TV Season of 2005

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
56

Mixed or average reviews - based on 26 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 13 out of 26
  2. Mixed: 8 out of 26
  3. Negative: 5 out of 26
  1. Baltimore Sun
    Reviewed by: David Zurawik
    80
    As drama, tonight's pilot has its flaws, but it is, nevertheless, one of those electrifying TV productions that instead of simply seeking to divert or amuse, challenges viewers to imagine a reality other than the one they have been conditioned to accept.
    Read full review
  2. Boston Globe
    Reviewed by: Matthew Gilbert
    40
    Some viewers will be put off by the many unbelievable aspects of ''Commander in Chief," and not least of all by Geena Davis.
    Read full review
  3. Chicago Sun-Times
    Reviewed by: Doug Elfman
    63
    Heavy-handed.
    Read full review
See all critic reviews »