The activation of mixed lineage kinase-like (MLKL) by receptor-interacting protein kinase-3 (RIPK3) results in plasma membrane (PM) disruption and a form of regulated necrosis, called necroptosis. Here, we show that, during necroptosis, MLKL-dependent calcium (Ca2+) influx and phosphatidylserine (PS) exposure on the outer leaflet of the plasma membrane preceded loss of PM integrity. Activation of MLKL results in the generation of broken, PM “bubbles” with exposed PS that are released from the surface of the otherwise intact cell. The ESCRT-III machinery is required for formation of these bubbles and acts to sustain survival of the cell when MLKL activation is limited or reversed. Under conditions of necroptotic cell death, ESCRT-III controls the duration of plasma membrane integrity. As a consequence of the action of ESCRT-III, cells undergoing necroptosis can express chemokines and other regulatory molecules and promote antigenic cross-priming of CD8+ T cells. Display omitted •Phosphatidylserine is exposed prior to loss of cell integrity during necroptosis•ESCRT-III facilitates the shedding of MLKL-damaged plasma membrane from intact cells•ESCRT-III supports cell survival and functions downstream of active MLKL•ESCRT-III allows necroptotic cells to signal surrounding cells Cells undergoing necroptosis are not always headed towards death; ESCRT-III helps preserve the plasma membrane in these cells, contributing to survival.