In “Succession” Season 2, Episode 5, “Tern Haven,” Kendall Roy grapples with a potent cocktail of guilt, addiction, and a desperate yearning for his father’s approval, all while navigating the treacherous social dynamics of a weekend retreat with the ultra-elite Pierce family. His subdued demeanor, punctuated by moments of unsettling candor, signals a deeper psychological breakdown even as he seemingly participates in the machinations of Waystar RoyCo.
The Aftermath: Trauma and Transaction
Kendall’s behavior in “Tern Haven” is best understood as a direct consequence of the events in the season one finale. The accidental death of the waiter at Shiv’s wedding hangs heavy, a spectral presence that informs his every action. He is irredeemably beholden to Logan, his father using the incident as leverage to ensure Kendall’s unwavering loyalty and obedience.
This episode illustrates how profoundly that tragedy has shaped Kendall. He is a shell of his former self, lacking the confidence and ambition that once defined him. He moves through the scenes like a ghost, often appearing disconnected from reality, fueled by a potent mix of substance abuse and internalized shame. The transactional nature of his relationship with Logan is brutally highlighted, with Kendall effectively trading his freedom and soul for protection from the legal and social consequences of his actions.
Navigating the Pierce Family
The arrival at Tern Haven, the ancestral home of the Pierce family, represents a new set of challenges for Kendall. He is tasked with assisting his father in the acquisition of PGM (Pierce Global Media), a deal that could significantly strengthen Waystar RoyCo’s media empire. However, the stark contrast between the Roy family’s ruthless ambition and the Pierces’ purported journalistic integrity creates a palpable tension.
Kendall finds himself in a delicate position, trying to maintain a facade of composure and competence while simultaneously battling his inner demons. He attempts to connect with Naomi Pierce, a recovering addict herself, hoping to find a sense of shared understanding. However, even this attempt at connection is fraught with complications, as Naomi is skeptical of the Roys’ motives and deeply cynical about their intentions.
The Unraveling: Moments of Candor
Despite his efforts to remain composed, Kendall experiences several moments of profound emotional vulnerability throughout the episode. These moments, often triggered by his interactions with Naomi or by the overwhelming weight of his guilt, reveal the extent of his inner turmoil. He displays a raw honesty that is rare for him, confessing his struggles with addiction and hinting at the trauma he has endured.
Perhaps the most telling scene is when Kendall confronts his father about the waiter’s death. He attempts to elicit some form of empathy or understanding from Logan, but is met with cold indifference. This interaction underscores the fundamentally dysfunctional nature of their relationship and reinforces the idea that Logan views Kendall as a mere pawn in his game. The episode ends with Kendall seemingly resigned to his fate, trapped in a cycle of addiction and dependence on his emotionally abusive father.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Kendall’s storyline in Season 2, Episode 5 of “Succession”:
H3: What was Kendall’s primary objective in “Tern Haven”?
Kendall’s primary objective was to assist Logan in the negotiation and acquisition of PGM (Pierce Global Media). He was meant to be a supporting player, demonstrating loyalty and competence to both his father and the Pierce family.
H3: How did Kendall’s addiction manifest in this episode?
Kendall’s addiction manifested in subtle but consistent ways. He was noticeably on edge, fidgety, and displayed signs of withdrawal. His attempts to connect with Naomi Pierce were partly motivated by a desire for a connection born from shared struggle with addiction. His overall subdued demeanor also pointed to its controlling influence.
H3: What was the significance of Kendall’s interaction with Naomi Pierce?
His interactions with Naomi Pierce were significant because they represented Kendall’s attempt to find solace and understanding in someone who could relate to his struggles with addiction. It highlighted his vulnerability and his longing for genuine connection, even amidst the cutthroat world of corporate power.
H3: How did Logan use the waiter incident to control Kendall?
Logan strategically used the waiter incident as a constant source of leverage over Kendall. By shielding him from the legal ramifications, he effectively rendered Kendall completely dependent on him and willing to do anything to maintain his father’s protection. This established a power dynamic where Kendall’s loyalty was ensured through fear and obligation.
H3: What did the Pierce family represent in contrast to the Roys?
The Pierce family represented a stark contrast to the Roys, particularly in their purported adherence to journalistic integrity and their seemingly less ruthless approach to business. They embodied a tradition of media ownership that prioritized public service and ethical standards, which clashed with the Roys’ blatant pursuit of power and profit.
H3: Was there any indication of Kendall’s inner rebellion in this episode?
While outwardly compliant, Kendall’s subdued and detached demeanor suggested a simmering resentment towards his father and the circumstances he found himself in. His moments of vulnerability and candor hinted at a deeper inner conflict and a potential for future rebellion.
H3: How did Kendall’s clothing and appearance reflect his mental state?
Kendall’s clothing and appearance throughout the series, including in this episode, often mirrored his mental state. His tailored but often disheveled look reflected his internal chaos and his attempts to maintain a semblance of control amidst his personal struggles. He appears emotionally and physically smaller than the other characters.
H3: What role did Shiv play in Kendall’s emotional state during this episode?
Shiv’s presence, while not directly interacting with Kendall in every scene, contributed to the overall tension and pressure he was under. He was constantly aware of her ambitions and her potential to usurp him in Logan’s eyes, adding to his feelings of insecurity and vulnerability.
H3: What are the potential long-term consequences of Kendall’s actions (or inactions) in “Tern Haven”?
The long-term consequences include a deepening of his dependence on Logan, a further erosion of his self-esteem, and a potential for a complete psychological breakdown. His inability to break free from his father’s control could lead to a life of perpetual servitude and unhappiness.
H3: Is Kendall a sympathetic character despite his flaws?
Despite his flaws, including his privilege, past arrogance, and complicity in morally questionable acts, Kendall elicits a degree of sympathy. The audience witnesses his trauma and his genuine struggle with addiction, allowing for a nuanced understanding of his complex character. The weight of the waiter’s death is visible.
H3: How does this episode contribute to Kendall’s overall character arc in the series?
This episode is a crucial turning point in Kendall’s character arc, solidifying his position as a broken and manipulated figure. It sets the stage for his eventual moments of defiance and rebellion, driven by a desperate need to reclaim his identity and break free from his father’s control.
H3: What are the key takeaways from Kendall’s experience in “Tern Haven”?
The key takeaways are the profound impact of trauma on his mental state, the manipulative power of Logan Roy, and the corrosive effects of unchecked ambition. It demonstrates how wealth and power can mask deep-seated psychological issues and create a toxic environment that perpetuates cycles of abuse and dysfunction.