Former first lady and current Secretary of State Elaine Barrish Hammond try to keep her family together while simultaneously dealing with crises of the State Department and fending off the hungry DC journalist who is bent on destroying her career.
The worst episode of "Political Animals" is "Pilot", rated 7.9/10 from 360 user votes. It was directed by Greg Berlanti and written by Greg Berlanti. "Pilot" aired on 7/15/2012 and is rated 0.0 point(s) lower than the second lowest rated, "Second Time Around".
In this series opener, the US Secretary of State tries to protect a shocking family secret all the while dealing with an Iranian hostage crisis.
Director: Greg Berlanti
Writer: Greg Berlanti
Douglas discovers Elaine has plans to run for office again as T.J. revisits his old habits and hits rock bottom. Elaine has Bud negotiate for the lives of Iranian hostages, placing him back into the spotlight.
Director: Bethany Rooney
Writer: Greg Berlanti, Molly Newman
T.J. recounts the events that lead up to his suicide attempt while dealing with his family's lack of interest in his club opening. Douglas struggles to cope with his betrayal and meanwhile, Elaine has a diplomatic crisis on her hands upon her return from overseas.
Director: David Petrarca
Writer: Geoffrey Nauffts, Speed Weed
Elaine's attention is torn between catering to T.J. and a Chinese submarine rescue mission. She also makes a deal with Susan allowing her unlimited access to the rescue mission in exchange for her discretion about T.J.
Director: Tucker Gates
Writer: Nicholas Wootton, Phil Klemmer
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. Susan shares her top-secret story with Alex.
Director: Michael Morris
Writer: Brian Peterson, Phil Klemmer, Kelly Souders
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.
Director: David Petrarca
Writer: Speed Weed, Molly Newman