Succession, HBO’s acclaimed drama, has left an indelible mark on television. The show’s intricate portrayal of a media empire family and its legacy has charmed audiences worldwide. With each season boasting a standout episode, it’s challenging to pinpoint a single moment that towers above the rest. However, each hour shines brighter than the last, with its masterful storytelling and outstanding performances.
The first season sets the tone for the series, focusing on Kendall’s quest to overthrow his father as CEO. The episode “Which Side Are You On?” showcases Kendall’s desperation to assert his authority and Jeremy Strong’s exceptional acting skills. This episode takes on a new meaning after the series finale, as Kendall’s inevitable failure has been apparent since the beginning. Strong’s portrayal of Kendall’s struggles to come to terms with his father’s legacy is particularly noteworthy.
The second season introduces the aftermath of Shiv’s marriage and the company’s struggles to respond to a journalistic investigation. The season finale, “This Is Not For Tears,” features Strong delivering a performance of a lifetime, winning an Emmy for his portrayal of Kendall’s public declaration of war against his father. Tom Wambsgans, played by Matthew Macfadyen, is also remarkable in his ruthless reaction to the scandal. The episode expertly weaves together the complex relationships between the characters, showcasing the devastating consequences of their actions.
A Still From Succession TV Show (Photo: Succession)
As the series progresses, the characters’ flaws and weaknesses become increasingly apparent. The introduction of Lukas Matsson, played by Alexander Skarsgård, changes the dynamic of the show, bringing a new level of tension to the already fraught relationships between the characters. Skarsgård’s performance is stellar, and the episode “Too Much Birthday” showcases the Roys’ incompetence and Kendall’s deep-seated loneliness.
The final season concludes the series in a masterful finale, “With Open Eyes.” The episode ends with a poignant shot of a lonely son sitting alone on a park bench, a fitting conclusion to the show’s exploration of the consequences of greed and power. The finale’s characters remain miserable, with each sibling ending up worse off than they were at the beginning. What remains ironic is that the siblings’ failure to work together is a result of their own bickering and arguing, a theme that defines their characters.
Throughout its four seasons, Succession has been a modern-day tragicomedy, expertly exploring the devastating consequences of greed and power. The show’s masterful storytelling and outstanding performances have left a lasting impact on television. The series finale is a perfect, yet depressing, conclusion to the show, leaving viewers with a haunting sense of unease and a reminder of the dangers of unchecked ambition.
