In a stunning, albeit fitting, conclusion to HBO’s “Succession,” the Roy sibling power struggle culminates not in a clear victor, but in a strategic compromise that leaves Tom Wambsgans unexpectedly at the helm of Waystar RoyCo as CEO, ushering in a new era under the stewardship of Lukas Matsson and GoJo. This ending underscores the show’s central theme: the corrosive nature of wealth and ambition, where victory is always a Pyrrhic one, and family bonds are ultimately secondary to the allure of power and control.
A Bitter Inheritance: The Endgame Unfolds
The series finale, titled “With Open Eyes,” is a masterclass in dramatic tension and character-driven conflict. The episode picks up immediately after the shocking revelation of Shiv’s pregnancy, a bombshell that reverberates through the already fragile alliance between Kendall and Roman. Their desperate scramble to sway Shiv to their side, to secure a majority vote against the GoJo deal, becomes the fulcrum upon which the fate of Waystar RoyCo, and their own legacies, rests.
The episode’s brilliance lies in its unflinching portrayal of the Roy siblings’ inherent flaws. Kendall, driven by an almost messianic delusion of deserving the CEO position, clings to the idea of continuing his father’s legacy, despite demonstrably lacking the business acumen and stability required. Roman, ever the cynical observer, vacillates between mocking the situation and succumbing to moments of genuine vulnerability, revealing the deep scars left by Logan’s emotional abuse. Shiv, the most strategically astute of the three, is ultimately undone by her own ambition and her deeply fractured relationship with her brothers.
The yacht setting, reminiscent of earlier seasons, adds a layer of claustrophobia to the proceedings. The vast expanse of the ocean ironically confines the siblings, forcing them to confront their shared history and the inherent dysfunction that defines their family dynamic. Their attempt to strategize and negotiate is punctuated by outbursts of anger, resentment, and thinly veiled contempt.
The crucial turning point comes when Shiv realizes that Kendall’s vision for Waystar RoyCo is not about creating a better company, but about fulfilling his own ego. This realization, coupled with her fear of being sidelined by Kendall and Roman, ultimately leads her to betray them. She recognizes that Tom, as Matsson’s chosen successor, offers her a path to influence, even if it means sacrificing her own CEO aspirations.
The final scene, with Kendall staring blankly at the water, the embodiment of defeat and disillusionment, is a powerful image. He has lost everything – his company, his family, and perhaps most importantly, his carefully constructed self-image. Roman, surprisingly, finds a degree of peace, having disengaged from the power struggle altogether. Shiv, although positioned within the new power structure, is trapped in a loveless marriage and faces an uncertain future with a man she doesn’t respect, but one who holds the ultimate position of authority.
Power, Loss, and Legacy: Key Takeaways
“Succession” is not just a show about corporate intrigue; it’s a searing indictment of wealth, privilege, and the destructive impact of unchecked ambition. The series finale reinforces this message, demonstrating that even in the world of billionaires, true happiness and fulfillment remain elusive. The Roy siblings, despite their immense wealth and power, are ultimately victims of their own dysfunctional family dynamics and their insatiable hunger for validation.
The ending is deliberately ambiguous, offering no easy answers or neatly tied-up storylines. It leaves the audience to ponder the true meaning of succession, questioning whether it is truly about power and control, or about something far more fundamental – the search for love, belonging, and a sense of purpose in a world dominated by ruthless ambition. The rise of Tom Wambsgans, the seemingly hapless opportunist, as the ultimate victor is a final, ironic twist, highlighting the unpredictable and often absurd nature of power. His ascent underscores the show’s cynical view of the corporate world, where competence and integrity are often secondary to strategic maneuvering and a willingness to play the game.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions surrounding the “Succession” finale:
H3 Why did Shiv ultimately vote against Kendall?
Shiv’s decision was driven by a complex combination of factors. Firstly, she recognized that Kendall’s motivations were primarily ego-driven, and she doubted his ability to lead Waystar RoyCo effectively. Secondly, she feared being marginalized within a Kendall-led company, recognizing that her brothers would likely exclude her from key decisions. Finally, she saw an opportunity to maintain some influence by aligning herself with Tom and Matsson, even if it meant sacrificing her own CEO ambitions. She chose power adjacent to the throne rather than no power at all.
H3 What does Tom’s victory signify?
Tom’s unexpected ascendance to the CEO position signifies the show’s cynical view of the corporate world. He represents the triumph of ambition and strategic maneuvering over genuine competence. He embodies the idea that in the world of “Succession,” the ability to navigate complex power dynamics and ingratiate oneself with those in control is more important than actual leadership skills. He is a survivor, adapting and thriving in a cutthroat environment.
H3 How does Roman’s ending differ from Kendall’s and Shiv’s?
Roman, unlike his siblings, appears to have found a degree of peace in disengaging from the power struggle. He recognizes the futility of the game and seems content to walk away from Waystar RoyCo, acknowledging the profound emotional damage inflicted by his father. His ending suggests that true freedom lies in rejecting the pursuit of power and finding solace in personal fulfillment, however flawed that might be.
H3 Was Kendall truly qualified to run Waystar RoyCo?
While Kendall possessed a certain charisma and a deep understanding of the media landscape, he lacked the emotional stability and strategic vision necessary to lead a global corporation. His past struggles with addiction, his impulsive decision-making, and his tendency to prioritize personal ambition over the needs of the company made him a risky and ultimately unsuitable candidate for CEO.
H3 What role did Lukas Matsson play in the final outcome?
Lukas Matsson was the ultimate puppet master, manipulating the Roy siblings’ ambitions and insecurities to his advantage. He recognized that their internal power struggles made them vulnerable and exploited their weaknesses to secure control of Waystar RoyCo on his terms. He ultimately chose Tom as CEO because he knew he could control him, seeing him as a pliable and unthreatening figurehead.
H3 Why didn’t the Roy siblings just start their own company?
The Roy siblings considered this option, but it ultimately proved unfeasible for several reasons. Firstly, starting a new company would require significant capital and resources. Secondly, they lacked the collaborative spirit and shared vision necessary to build a successful venture together. Their individual ambitions and conflicting agendas would inevitably undermine any attempt to work as a team. Finally, the allure of inheriting their father’s legacy, however toxic, proved too strong to resist.
H3 What is the significance of the title “With Open Eyes”?
The title “With Open Eyes” is ironic, as it suggests that the characters are finally seeing the truth about themselves and their relationships. However, the finale reveals that they are still largely driven by their own self-delusions and blinded by their ambition. They may be “open” to certain realities, but they remain incapable of escaping the destructive patterns of their family dynamic.
H3 What does the ending say about the nature of family?
The ending reinforces the show’s central theme: that family bonds are often secondary to ambition and the pursuit of power. The Roy siblings’ dysfunctional relationships, characterized by manipulation, betrayal, and a desperate need for their father’s approval, ultimately prevent them from achieving true happiness or success. The show suggests that wealth and privilege can exacerbate these family dysfunctions, creating a toxic environment where genuine connection is impossible.
H3 How does the finale compare to the overall tone of the series?
The finale is consistent with the overall tone of the series, which is cynical, darkly comedic, and unflinchingly realistic. It offers no easy resolutions or feel-good moments. Instead, it presents a complex and nuanced portrayal of flawed characters navigating a morally ambiguous world. The ending is deliberately ambiguous, leaving the audience to ponder the true meaning of the events and the fates of the characters.
H3 Is there any chance of a “Succession” spin-off?
While there have been no official announcements regarding a “Succession” spin-off, the possibility remains open. The rich world of Waystar RoyCo, with its complex characters and intricate power dynamics, offers ample material for future stories. However, the creators have emphasized that they wanted to end the show on their own terms and avoid diluting its impact with unnecessary extensions.
H3 What will happen to Waystar RoyCo under Tom and Matsson’s leadership?
The future of Waystar RoyCo under Tom and Matsson’s leadership is uncertain, but it is likely to be very different from what Logan Roy envisioned. Matsson’s priorities are focused on technology and global expansion, potentially shifting the company’s focus away from traditional media. Tom, as CEO, will likely be forced to implement Matsson’s vision, even if it clashes with his own instincts. He will be perpetually walking a tightrope, trying to appease his mercurial boss while maintaining some semblance of authority.
H3 What is the lasting legacy of “Succession”?
“Succession” will be remembered as one of the greatest television dramas of all time. Its sharp writing, compelling characters, and unflinching portrayal of wealth and power have captivated audiences and critics alike. The show has raised important questions about the nature of family, ambition, and the corrosive impact of unchecked privilege. Its legacy will endure as a powerful and insightful commentary on the complexities of the modern world. The show served as a mirror reflecting the darkest corners of the elite, and that reflection continues to resonate long after the credits have rolled.