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House of Cards Season 4 Episode 5: The First Lady Behind Donald

James Foley
James Foley
Director
David Fincher
David Fincher
Director
Kevin Spacey
Kevin Spacey
Francis Underwood
Robin Wright
Robin Wright
Claire Underwood
Michael Joseph Kelly
Michael Joseph Kelly
Doug Stamper
Kate Mara
Kate Mara
Zoe Barnes
Kristen Connolly
Kristen Connolly
Christina
Plot Summary: Frank's condition shows no improvement; his liver is nearing failure. Doug, unwilling to see this happen, visits the Department of Health office where Secretary Meredith Lee briefs him on the transplant progress. Frank is second on the organ recipient list, giving him a good chance of survival. However, Doug is not satisfied and demands that Secretary Lee use her authority to place the President first on the list. Soon after, Frank receives the liver of a child who committed suicide, which is then transplanted into his body. When Claire receives the notification, her plane is already nearing Germany. She does not request to return, but continues to the summit. Through the White House press secretary, Claire releases a brief statement, praying for her husband's safety while fulfilling her duties to the nation. Dunbar is under investigation by the Department of Justice. Absolutely loyal to the law, Dunbar admits to meeting Lucas privately, confidently believing she is on the right side of the argument, even waiving confidentiality and willing to make the investigative questioning public. Her intentions are good, but during the questioning, she claims Frank is not innocent, yet cannot prove it. She believes her honesty alone can prove Frank's manipulation and pursuit of personal gain. This naive approach only makes the public see a hysterical candidate. Dunbar's political career is ruined by her honesty. Claire's meeting with Petrov lasts all night. Finally, an agreement is reached, and Claire returns to the US early on Air Force One. Catherine, at the closing press conference of the summit, makes no mention of Claire, implying that the agreement was entirely her accomplishment. Doug also instructs Seth to downplay the First Lady's role in the press release, shifting attention to the President's recovery. Jackie, at this point, only offers Remy a congratulation, unwilling to say another word. Upon returning to the White House, Claire sees Frank's bedroom converted into a sickroom. Frank's early return to the White House worries Claire that the hard-won negotiation results might be vetoed by him. However, his subsequent words dispel Claire's doubts. Frank has reviewed Claire's plan and will approve its implementation. From this, Frank recognizes Claire's capabilities. In future campaigns, Claire will not only be the First Lady but also the future Vice President. After saying this, Frank stands up again, slowly walking to the other end of the hall with Claire's support. From now on, they will move forward together, side by side, never leaving each other. A few days later, Frank, supported by Claire, enters the conference room to a standing ovation from cabinet members. After signing the transfer of power document, Donald is relieved, and Doug regains his composure. Frank strokes Claire's hand on his shoulder, enjoying the enthusiastic applause celebrating his return.

House of Cards Season 4

United States
2016
13Complete Series

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