What Was Succession About?
Introduction
“Succession” is an American satirical dark comedy-drama television series that aired on HBO from June 3, 2018, to May 28, 2023. The series, created by Jesse Armstrong, spanned over four seasons and 39 episodes. It has received widespread critical acclaim for its writing, acting, musical score, directing, production values, and examination of its subject matter. Some critics have even called it one of the best television series of all time.
The Plot
The series centers on the Roy family, the owners of Waystar Royco, a global media and entertainment conglomerate. The family members are fighting for control of the company amid uncertainty about the health of the family’s patriarch, Logan Roy, played by Brian Cox. The cast includes Jeremy Strong as Kendall, Kieran Culkin as Roman, and Sarah Snook as Siobhan (Shiv), Logan’s children employed by the company. Matthew Macfadyen stars as Tom Wambsgans, Shiv’s husband and Waystar executive, and Nicholas Braun as Greg Hirsch, Logan’s grandnephew also employed by the company.
The Characters
The characters in “Succession” are complex and multi-dimensional. Logan Roy, the patriarch of the family and the founder of Waystar Royco, is a brash leader whose primary focus is his company rather than his four children. His children, Connor, Kendall, Roman, and Siobhan, all have varying degrees of connection to the company and are preparing for a future without their father. They vie for prominence within the company, each with their unique strengths and weaknesses.
The Finale
The series finale, titled “With Open Eyes,” was a rollercoaster ride of emotions and power shifts. The finale faced the daunting task of resolving numerous individual and interconnected character arcs, all with an eye on one major question: who will succeed Logan Roy at the head of Waystar Royco? The answer was surprising, with Tom Wambsgans, Shiv’s husband, ending up at the head of the table. The finale was a testament to the unpredictable and gripping nature of the series, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
Conclusion
“Succession” is a series that masterfully explores themes of power, family dynamics, and the high-stakes world of global media conglomerates. It’s a series that has left a lasting impact on viewers and critics alike, earning its place as one of the most acclaimed television series of its time.