The HBO series Succession is gearing up for its fourth and final season, a thrilling conclusion to a show that has mastered the art of complex character development. The Roy family, particularly the children, are battling for control of the company Waystar Royco, with each one more cunning and ruthless than the last. But who is the most devious of them all?
Roman Roy, often considered the least crooked of the siblings, is willing to do whatever it takes to get ahead, including underhanded dealings and manipulation. Willa Ferreyra, Connor’s partner, is equally self-serving, using him for her own gain and showing no qualms about doing so. Greg Hirsch, the awkward and timid cousin, proved himself to be shadier than initially thought, willing to betray his family for personal gain.
Nan Pierce, a media mogul, uses her sweet and kind demeanor to mask her calculating nature, manipulating the Roy family to her advantage. Gerri Kellman, a talented lawyer, will stop at nothing to ensure Waystar-Royco remains prosperous, even if it means bending the law. Kendall Roy, one of the most shocking characters, proved himself capable of betrayal and deceit.
Tom Wambsgans, once thought to be a likable character, showed his true colors by betraying his own wife and manipulating those around him. Siobhan “Shiv” Roy, determined to become number one, has no qualms about walking over her own siblings to get there. Kerry, Logan’s executive assistant, lurks in the shadows, whispering sweet nothings in his ear and slowly manipulating him to her advantage.
And then there’s Logan Roy, the patriarch of the family and the ultimate masterclass in manipulation. He will stop at nothing to get what he wants, using and discarding those around him without a second thought. His children have picked up on his Machiavellian tendencies, emulating his behavior in their own quest for power.
In the end, it’s clear that Succession is a show about the corrupting influence of power, and the lengths to which people will go to achieve their goals. As the final season begins, it’s anyone’s guess who will ultimately emerge victorious, but one thing is certain – no one will come out unscathed.