The final episode of HBO’s Succession culminated not in a dramatic power grab, but in a quiet, almost anticlimactic deal, leaving Kendall, Shiv, and Roman as empty and fractured as ever. Tom Wambsgans, the unlikely victor, ascended to the CEO throne of Waystar RoyCo, solidifying GoJo’s acquisition and cementing the children’s inability to achieve what they so desperately craved: their father’s approval and the crown he left behind.
A Tale of Three Siblings, United in Failure
The episode, titled “With Open Eyes,” unraveled the Roy siblings’ final attempt to derail the GoJo deal and maintain control of Waystar RoyCo. Their initial fragile unity, fueled by grief and a fleeting sense of shared purpose, quickly disintegrated as old wounds reopened and insecurities resurfaced. Kendall’s unwavering belief in his own destiny as CEO clashed with Shiv’s calculated pragmatism and Roman’s emotional unraveling. Ultimately, Shiv’s betrayal, a calculated move born from a complex mixture of spite, ambition, and the realization that Kendall was ultimately unfit to lead, sealed their fate.
The scene in the Barbados villa, where the siblings grappled with their decision, was a masterclass in acting and writing. Each character’s flaws and vulnerabilities were laid bare, exposing the toxic dynamic that had defined their lives. Their desperate attempts to find common ground were ultimately undermined by their ingrained competitiveness and the pervasive influence of their father’s legacy. The episode emphasized that the real succession wasn’t about a title, but about the emotional baggage and dysfunctional patterns inherited from Logan Roy.
The final moments, with Tom receiving congratulatory calls and Kendall staring blankly at the water, underscored the emptiness of the victory and the profound loss experienced by all involved. No one truly wins in the world of Succession.
Understanding the Nuances: Frequently Asked Questions
What was the turning point that led to Shiv’s betrayal?
Shiv’s betrayal wasn’t a singular moment, but a culmination of factors. Firstly, she likely never truly believed Kendall could lead. His relentless ambition, coupled with his history of instability, made him an unreliable option in her eyes. Secondly, she recognized that remaining within the power structure, even if not at the very top, offered her more influence than being completely shut out. Thirdly, and perhaps most importantly, Shiv’s pregnancy likely influenced her decision. The prospect of becoming a mother, and the weight of her father’s legacy, likely pushed her toward a more pragmatic and secure path, even if it meant sacrificing her family’s control.
Why did Roman ultimately agree with Shiv’s decision to vote against Kendall?
Roman’s support for Kendall was always tenuous and emotionally driven. His grief over his father’s death, coupled with a desire to please his siblings, initially fueled his backing. However, Roman’s inherent self-doubt and deep-seated insecurities ultimately undermined his resolve. He recognized that he was not capable of leading Waystar RoyCo himself, and he saw through Kendall’s façade of competence. More subtly, Roman’s masochistic tendencies likely played a role, perhaps finding a certain perverse comfort in the familiar pain of being overlooked and diminished.
Was Tom Wambsgans truly the “best man” for the job?
“Best” is a subjective term, especially in the context of Waystar RoyCo. Tom was not chosen for his leadership qualities or visionary thinking, but for his willingness to be a figurehead controlled by Lukas Matsson. He was a safe, pliable option who wouldn’t challenge Matsson’s authority. In that sense, he was the “best” candidate from Matsson’s perspective. However, whether he possesses the long-term ability to successfully run a media empire remains to be seen.
What does the ending suggest about the nature of power and success?
The ending of Succession suggests that power and success are often illusions, built on shifting sands of ambition, betrayal, and insecurity. The Roy siblings’ relentless pursuit of control ultimately left them empty and unfulfilled. The show highlights the corrupting influence of wealth and the profound damage it can inflict on families. Ultimately, the “succession” was a hollow victory, devoid of meaning and connection.
What happened to Greg at the end of the episode?
Greg’s “win” is arguably more absurd than Tom’s. He remains in a position of relative power within Waystar RoyCo, thanks to his relentless opportunism and willingness to align himself with whoever is on top. Greg’s continued presence underscores the show’s cynical view of corporate culture and the importance of blind loyalty over competence. He is the embodiment of the Peter Principle, a testament to the power of brown-nosing and being in the right place at the right time.
What was the significance of the location for the final scene?
The ending scenes in Barbados, far removed from the corporate towers of New York City, are significant. The tropical setting provides a stark contrast to the sterile, high-pressure environment of Waystar RoyCo, highlighting the emotional disconnect between the siblings and the world they inhabit. The vast expanse of the ocean serves as a metaphor for the endless possibilities that were available to them, and the missed opportunities that now haunt them. Kendall’s solitary gaze at the water is a poignant reminder of his isolation and his unfulfilled potential.
Why didn’t Connor have a bigger role in the finale?
Connor’s subdued presence in the finale underscores his detachment from the core drama. He represents a different kind of ambition, one that is less focused on power and more on personal fulfillment. While he ultimately fails to achieve his political aspirations, he finds a measure of peace and contentment with Willa. His storyline serves as a reminder that there are alternative paths to happiness, even if they are unconventional.
What is the future of Waystar RoyCo under GoJo’s leadership?
The future of Waystar RoyCo under GoJo’s leadership is uncertain. Lukas Matsson’s vision for the company is likely to be very different from Logan Roy’s. We can expect significant changes in the corporate culture, with a greater emphasis on technology and innovation. The long-term impact on the company’s employees and the media landscape remains to be seen.
How did the writers decide on this ending?
While the writers haven’t revealed the specifics of their decision-making process, it’s clear that they prioritized thematic consistency over a satisfying resolution. The ending reflects the show’s overarching theme of the corrupting influence of wealth and the impossibility of escaping one’s family history. The writers were less interested in providing a clear-cut winner and more interested in exploring the psychological damage inflicted by the Roy family’s toxic dynamic.
Did Logan Roy’s death influence the final decision?
Absolutely. Logan Roy’s death was the catalyst for the events of the final season and directly impacted the ending. His absence created a power vacuum that the siblings were ill-equipped to fill. Without his domineering presence, their insecurities and rivalries spiraled out of control, ultimately leading to their downfall. His death exposed the fragility of the family and the hollowness of their ambition.
What is the ultimate message of Succession?
The ultimate message of Succession is multifaceted and open to interpretation. However, central themes include: the corrosive impact of unchecked ambition, the destructive nature of family dysfunction, and the futility of pursuing power for its own sake. The show serves as a cautionary tale about the human cost of greed and the impossibility of truly escaping one’s past.
Will there be a spin-off or sequel series?
As of now, there are no concrete plans for a spin-off or sequel series. However, given the show’s immense popularity and critical acclaim, it is not entirely out of the realm of possibility. Any potential spin-off would likely focus on a different character or aspect of the Waystar RoyCo universe, potentially exploring the lives of supporting characters or delving into the broader media landscape. However, creator Jesse Armstrong has repeatedly stated his desire to end the story definitively with the current four seasons.