The final episode of Succession Season 4 saw Kendall Roy‘s lifelong ambition to inherit Waystar RoyCo dashed against the rocks of sibling rivalry and self-sabotage, ultimately culminating in the ascension of Tom Wambsgans to the CEO position under GoJo’s acquisition. While not the Roy family victory many anticipated, the episode offered a bleak yet undeniably fitting conclusion to the saga of power, betrayal, and the corrosive nature of familial dysfunction.
The Coronation of a Cuckold King: A Deep Dive
The finale, “With Open Eyes,” masterfully orchestrated a descent into the abyss of the Roy sibling dynamic, exposing the fragility of their alliance and the ultimate impossibility of collective power in a landscape designed for individual ruthlessness. The episode revolves around the final board vote deciding whether Waystar RoyCo would be sold to Lukas Matsson’s GoJo, a deal that would reshape the media landscape and, more importantly, define the future of the Roy children.
The episode opens with a hopeful glimmer, a brief return to the comfort of their childhood home, where Kendall, Shiv, and Roman huddle together, seemingly united in their ambition to co-lead the company. This fragile unity, however, is quickly undermined by the inherent toxicity of their relationships and the ever-present shadow of their father, Logan.
The Tides Turn: Shiv’s Betrayal
The crucial turning point arrives during the board vote. While initially appearing supportive of Kendall, Shiv ultimately betrays him, abstaining from voting him in as CEO. Her reasoning is complex and multi-layered: a mixture of resentment towards Kendall’s perceived unsuitability for the role (influenced by Logan’s own doubts), a desire to assert her own power (however fleeting), and a calculated move to secure her own position within GoJo under Matsson’s leadership.
Shiv’s decision is not purely rational. It is fueled by a lifetime of being underestimated and overlooked, coupled with the deep-seated animosity she harbors towards her brothers, particularly Kendall. She sees him as a fraud, incapable of filling their father’s shoes, and unwilling to acknowledge her own ambition.
Roman’s Retreat: Acknowledging the Void
Roman, grappling with the emotional trauma of Logan’s death and his own inadequacy, also contributes to Kendall’s downfall. While he briefly supports Kendall, he eventually withdraws, realizing he lacks the stomach for the cutthroat world of corporate leadership. He chooses to retreat, seeking solace (however temporary) in alcohol and the anonymity of a bar, a far cry from the corporate battlefield.
Roman’s arc is perhaps the most heartbreaking. He ultimately acknowledges his own limitations, recognizing that he is simply not built for the demands of the Roy legacy. His decision to step away is not a sign of weakness, but rather a reluctant acceptance of his own truth.
Kendall’s Crushing Defeat: The End of the Line
Kendall, driven by an almost pathological need to fulfill his father’s legacy and prove his worth, is ultimately consumed by his ambition. The loss of Waystar RoyCo shatters his carefully constructed identity, leaving him adrift and alone. The final scene, depicting him staring blankly at the ocean, devoid of purpose, is a poignant reminder of the devastating consequences of unchecked ambition and the destructive power of familial dysfunction.
The crushing reality is that Kendall’s vision of becoming a titan of industry, a successor to his father, was always an illusion, fueled by denial and a deep-seated insecurity. The final episode exposes this illusion, leaving him with nothing but the weight of his unfulfilled dreams.
Tom’s Unexpected Victory: The Rise of the Outsider
In a surprising turn of events, Tom Wambsgans emerges as the victor. Matsson, drawn to Tom’s perceived willingness to be a “pain sponge” and his lack of emotional connection to the Roy family, chooses him as the American CEO of Waystar RoyCo under GoJo’s ownership. Tom’s rise is not a testament to his competence or vision, but rather to his ability to navigate the treacherous waters of corporate politics and his willingness to sacrifice his dignity for power.
The episode paints a grim picture of success in the corporate world, suggesting that true power lies not in innovation or leadership, but in subservience and a willingness to compromise one’s values. Tom’s “victory” is a bittersweet one, purchased at the cost of his soul.
The Quiet Triumph of Greg: The Disgusting Brothers
Alongside Tom’s ascent, Greg Hirsch also benefits from the acquisition. He manages to secure a position within GoJo by aligning himself with Tom, solidifying their bizarre and often darkly comedic relationship. Greg’s survival is a testament to his cunning and his ability to play the game, albeit with a distinct lack of scruples. He and Tom truly are disgusting brothers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
H3 What was Shiv’s motivation for betraying Kendall?
Shiv’s decision to abstain from voting for Kendall was complex, driven by a combination of factors: her long-held resentment towards Kendall, her perception of his unsuitability for the role, her desire for power, and a calculated attempt to secure a position for herself within GoJo. She ultimately saw him as a flawed and unstable leader, unfit to carry on the Roy legacy. She also could never quite give up on the possibility of being chosen herself, even in the new GoJo framework.
H3 Why did Roman ultimately back out of supporting Kendall?
Roman, still grieving from Logan’s death and battling his own feelings of inadequacy, realized he lacked the strength and desire to lead Waystar RoyCo. He understood that he was not his father, nor could he become him. Retreating to the relative comfort of his own personal chaos felt like the only viable option. He acknowledged that he couldn’t do it.
H3 What does Tom’s CEO position actually entail under GoJo?
Tom’s role as CEO is largely symbolic. He essentially functions as Matsson’s puppet, managing the American operations of Waystar RoyCo under GoJo’s control. He lacks true autonomy and answers directly to Matsson, making him more of a figurehead than a true leader. He is, as Matsson said, his “pain sponge”.
H3 How does the ending reflect the themes of the entire series?
The ending perfectly encapsulates the central themes of Succession: the corrupting influence of power, the destructive nature of familial dysfunction, and the impossibility of escaping one’s legacy. The Roy siblings are ultimately unable to break free from the cycle of betrayal and manipulation that defined their lives, resulting in a tragic and ultimately unsatisfying conclusion for all of them.
H3 What are the long-term implications of the GoJo acquisition?
The GoJo acquisition signifies a shift in the media landscape, marking the rise of tech giants and the decline of traditional media empires. It also raises questions about the future of Waystar RoyCo’s content and its role in shaping public opinion under Matsson’s ownership. Matsson’s impulsiveness and lack of traditional media experience also add an element of uncertainty.
H3 Was there any redemption for any of the characters?
While none of the characters achieve complete redemption, Roman comes closest. His decision to step away from the power struggle suggests a willingness to confront his own flaws and accept his limitations. However, his future remains uncertain, and he is still haunted by the trauma of his upbringing. The others are more flawed than ever.
H3 What was the significance of the final shot of Kendall?
The final shot of Kendall, staring blankly at the ocean, symbolizes his complete and utter defeat. He is stripped of his identity, his ambition shattered, and left with nothing but the emptiness of his unfulfilled dreams. The ocean, vast and indifferent, reflects the insignificance of his struggle in the grand scheme of things.
H3 How did Logan Roy’s death affect the siblings’ decisions?
Logan’s death served as a catalyst, accelerating the power struggle and exposing the deep-seated insecurities and resentments that defined the sibling dynamic. His absence created a void that none of them could fill, leading to a frantic and ultimately self-destructive scramble for control. They couldn’t let him go, even as he was gone.
H3 What is the future for Shiv and Tom’s relationship?
Shiv and Tom’s relationship remains ambiguous. While they are technically still together, their marriage is built on a foundation of manipulation and mutual self-interest. Shiv’s decision to accept Tom’s position as CEO may provide a temporary reprieve, but their long-term prospects remain bleak. It is likely a purely transactional arrangement.
H3 Did any character get what they truly wanted?
No. The tragic genius of Succession is that no one truly achieves their desires. Kendall fails to inherit the company, Shiv’s ambition is thwarted, Roman retreats, and Tom’s victory is a hollow one. The characters are trapped in a cycle of wanting and failing, perpetually chasing an illusion of happiness and fulfillment.
H3 What were some key hidden details in the episode?
Pay close attention to the subtle cues and nonverbal communication between the siblings, particularly during the board vote. Their fleeting glances, hesitations, and shifts in body language reveal their true intentions and anxieties. Also, analyze the objects and locations revisited throughout the series, such as the childhood home, which carry significant symbolic weight. The episode is packed with visual metaphors and narrative callbacks.
H3 What’s next for the cast of Succession?
The incredibly talented cast of Succession are all set to be busy. Jeremy Strong (Kendall) has numerous film projects lined up, including a role in an upcoming film directed by Brad Pitt. Sarah Snook (Shiv) has returned to the stage and is expected to take on more film roles. Kieran Culkin (Roman) has already received accolades for his performance and will likely be sought after for both comedic and dramatic roles. Matthew Macfadyen (Tom) continues to enjoy a successful career in film and television. All are incredibly talented and their future is very bright!