Wealth and excess have become the hallmark of luxury on television, with shows like Riverdale, Succession, and Sex and the City showcasing the lavish lifestyles of the 1%. These characters, whether entrepreneurs, lawyers, or sports moguls, share a common trait – a love for the finer things in life. They flaunt their wealth with designer clothes, jewelry, and expensive tastes, redefining what it means to be rich.
Hiram P. Lodge from Riverdale is a prime example of excess, with his questionable business practices and illegal activities juxtaposed with his lavish lifestyle. Philip Banks from the Bel-Air reboot, on the other hand, built his wealth through hard work and determination, providing for his family without breaking the bank. Amy Lau from Beef has built her wealth through her companies and fashion label, earning a personal assistant and designer wardrobe in the process. Carrie Bradshaw from Sex and the City is addicted to the high-end lifestyle in New York City, never meeting a price tag she’s afraid to tackle.
Cookie Lyon from Empire Entertainment built her wealth through her talent for music and sharp business acumen, becoming the cofounder of Empire. Rebecca Welton from Ted Lasso is a force to be reckoned with, building a fortune through her investments in the team. With an expensive wardrobe and a penchant for fine living, she’s redefined what it means to be a sports mogul.
A Still From Queen Charlotte (Photo: Queen Charlotte)
Queen Charlotte from Bridgerton hosts lavish parties with expensive decorations and luxurious fabrics adorning her guests. Tanya McQuoid from The White Lotus is a modern-day heiress, living the high life with a trust fund and jet-set lifestyle. Molly Novak from Loot is a billionaire widow, enjoying the high life with a private plane and massive mansion. Logan Roy from Succession, the founder of Waystar Roco, is a true member of the 1%, with a net worth of $1 billion and a sense of entitlement that rivals his wealth.
These characters serve as cautionary tales about the dangers of chasing material wealth, but they also show us that a love for luxury and excess can be alluring, if not corrupting. The world’s fascination with the wealthy is a double-edged sword, showcasing both the benefits and drawbacks of their lavish lifestyles. The allure of luxury and excess is undeniable, but we must remember that money cannot buy happiness and that a love for the finer things in life can lead to a life of indulgence and excess.
