The final episode of HBO’s acclaimed drama Succession, titled “With Open Eyes”, aired on May 28th, 2023. This marked the culmination of four seasons of familial warfare, corporate maneuvering, and the relentless pursuit of power within the Roy family’s media empire.
Understanding the Succession Finale: A Deep Dive
The end of Succession was one of the most anticipated television events of recent years, and for good reason. The show had consistently delivered sharp writing, compelling performances, and a relentless examination of wealth, privilege, and the human condition. Understanding the context surrounding the finale is crucial to appreciating its impact.
The Build-Up to the End
From its inception, Succession was a story about inheritance, legacy, and the dysfunctional dynamics of a supremely wealthy family. The death of Logan Roy in the third episode of the final season dramatically accelerated the power struggle, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats as Kendall, Shiv, and Roman vied for control of Waystar RoyCo. The final episodes meticulously crafted a tense and uncertain atmosphere, hinting at various potential outcomes and alliances.
Expectations and Reactions
Given the show’s pedigree, expectations for the finale were incredibly high. Fans debated various theories online, dissecting every line of dialogue and anticipating last-minute twists. The actual ending, while somewhat divisive, largely stayed true to the show’s themes, emphasizing the impossibility of truly filling Logan Roy’s shoes and the enduring damage inflicted by his toxic parenting. Reviews were overwhelmingly positive, praising the writing, directing, and acting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Succession Finale
This section addresses some of the most common questions surrounding the Succession finale, providing further insight into the events and implications of the episode “With Open Eyes.”
FAQ 1: Who Ultimately “Won” Succession?
The most accurate answer is: no one truly “won.” While Tom Wambsgans was ultimately chosen as the American CEO of Waystar RoyCo under GoJo’s leadership, his victory came at the expense of the Roy siblings’ ambitions and at the cost of his marriage with Shiv. He’s a figurehead, not a true leader, and his “win” is arguably a Faustian bargain.
FAQ 2: What Happened to Shiv Roy?
Shiv Roy ultimately voted against Kendall for the CEO position, effectively sealing his fate. While she initially supported him, the reality of his leadership, combined with her own insecurities and desire for power, led her to betray him. She ends the series as Tom’s wife and presumably a future mother, but her face shows a deep dissatisfaction and resignation. Her ambition remains unfulfilled.
FAQ 3: Did Kendall Roy Achieve His Dream of Being CEO?
No, Kendall Roy did not become CEO. His lifelong ambition was ultimately thwarted by Shiv’s vote and his own inability to convincingly portray himself as a capable leader. The weight of his past, particularly the death of the waiter, continued to haunt him and undermine his credibility. The final shot of him alone in Battery Park City signifies his utter defeat and the profound loss of purpose.
FAQ 4: What Role Did Lukas Matsson Play in the Finale?
Lukas Matsson, the CEO of GoJo, remained a central figure in the finale. He manipulated the Roy siblings’ ambitions and insecurities to his advantage, ultimately choosing Tom Wambsgans as CEO because he believed Tom would be more compliant and less likely to challenge his authority. Matsson’s pragmatism trumped any loyalty or sentimentality.
FAQ 5: What Was the Significance of the Title “With Open Eyes”?
The title “With Open Eyes” is open to interpretation, but it likely refers to the siblings finally seeing each other, and themselves, for who they truly are. They are forced to confront the reality of their relationships, their limitations, and the damage inflicted by their upbringing. However, this “open-eyed” realization doesn’t necessarily lead to positive change or reconciliation.
FAQ 6: What Happened to Roman Roy?
Roman Roy seemingly accepts his fate and exits the corporate world, retreating to a more comfortable and less demanding life. He acknowledges his limitations and appears to be at peace, albeit a somewhat melancholy peace. He has the least ambition, seemingly the least troubled by the loss, and the most likely to accept his defeat.
FAQ 7: Was There a Time Jump Between Episodes?
No, there was no significant time jump between episodes. The finale picked up directly where the penultimate episode left off, with the Roy siblings grappling with the impending GoJo acquisition and the battle for control of Waystar RoyCo.
FAQ 8: Will There Be a Succession Spin-Off?
As of now, there are no concrete plans for a Succession spin-off. Creator Jesse Armstrong has stated that he feels the story has reached its natural conclusion. However, the immense popularity of the show leaves the door open for potential future projects, although they are highly unlikely.
FAQ 9: What Themes Were Explored in the Finale?
The finale explored several key themes, including: the corrosive nature of wealth and power, the enduring impact of dysfunctional families, the impossibility of escaping one’s past, the illusion of control, and the ultimately hollow nature of ambition. It was a cynical, yet insightful, commentary on the human condition.
FAQ 10: What Were Some Memorable Quotes from the Finale?
The Succession finale was filled with memorable quotes, many of them reflecting the characters’ bitterness, cynicism, and desperation. One notable example is Kendall’s desperate plea to Shiv: “I’m the eldest boy!” Another impactful line comes from Roman, acknowledging his own incompetence and lack of desire for the position.
FAQ 11: How Did the Finale Compare to Other Season Finales?
The Succession finale was consistent with the show’s overall tone and style, eschewing a neatly wrapped-up ending in favor of a more nuanced and ambiguous resolution. It differed from some season finales in that it didn’t offer a clear-cut winner or loser, but rather presented a complex and multi-layered depiction of human ambition and its consequences. Many critics lauded its realism and commitment to the show’s core themes.
FAQ 12: Where Can I Watch Succession and the Finale?
Succession and the finale are available to stream on HBO Max (now Max). You can also purchase episodes or seasons on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play.