The Phenomenon Called Succession: A Review of the Show That Mirrors Real-Life Family Empires
Succession is a show that has taken the television industry by storm with its realistic portrayal of the lives of wealthy and powerful media tycoons and their families. The series is known for its captivating storyline, relatable characters, and the sly callbacks that remind viewers of earlier episodes, creating a sense of coming full circle. The show evokes real-life family empires, making it part of the off-screen cultural and political conversation.
Logan Roy: The Character That Drives Succession Forward
Logan Roy is the towering figure that sets the narrative of the show. Constantly thought to be losing his touch, Logan outsmarts his children at every turn. He is brutal and cruel to them, but his children often seem worse than him. Cox, who plays Logan Roy, captures the character’s rage, ruthless grip on power, distrust, and increasing isolation perfectly. This makes him magnetic yet inscrutable to his rivals.
The Reality the Show Mirrors
Succession ties the series most firmly to the reality that the show mirrors. It evokes questions about which mogul might have been the basis for Logan, possibly Rupert Murdoch or Sumner Redstone. Succession’s fictional Roys have become reference points for real-life family empires. The show is a non-partisan, cynical commentary on all politics, making it clear that money means more than ideology.
The Influence of Real-Life Moguls on Succession
The Murdoch echoes are stronger than ever now that a defamation lawsuit against his Fox News Channel has put his grip on The White House in the headlines. On this season’s Succession, Logan keeps his fictional channel, ATN, out of the Waystar deal, retaining his hold on political power. Similar to the Fox allegations, ATN played a kingmaking role in the US presidency.
Season 4 Finale: A Tale of Two Scenes
The Season 4 finale is a tale of two scenes, one planting the seed that renders the other one inevitable. The Roy family is gathering in their father’s home to lay low before the board vote on GoJo, and they pause for a moment to watch a video of their father at dinner, looking happier than they’ve ever seen him.
The Essential Truth – “We are Bullshit”
The essential truth is agreed upon by Shiv and Roman: “We are bullshit.” They’re not serious people. Logan never wanted any of them to succeed him at Waystar. That’s why he sold the family business to Lukas Matsson. The three kids had their names, their board seats, their power. But their schemes were crude and their plans reliably foiled. There were two failsons and a faildaughter. Their dad saw it that way, and the people who mattered— the serious people— saw it that way, too.
Saying Goodbye to the Show
The Season 4 finale marks the end of the show, and it’s time to say goodbye to the Roys. It has been a great four-season run, and the show has given viewers unforgettable characters and a story that will remain etched in their memories for a long time.
Conclusion
Succession is more than a show; it’s a phenomenon that has captivated viewers worldwide. It made us empathize with some of the most despicable characters on the screen, and it made us laugh, cry and rage along with them. The show mirrors the reality of today and serves as a commentary on our political and social landscape. It’s time to say goodbye, but the show will continue to echo in our minds for a long time to come.
FAQs
1. Can I still watch the previous seasons of Succession?
Yes, you can still watch the previous seasons of Succession on various streaming platforms.
2. Is Succession worth watching?
Yes, Succession is worth watching. The show has been praised by critics and audiences alike for its captivating storyline and realistic portrayal of the lives of wealthy and powerful media tycoons and their families.
3. Is Succession a political show?
Succession is a show that comments on our political and social landscape. While the show isn’t centered around politics, it uses politics as a backdrop to explore the struggles of the Roy family and the world they inhabit.
4. Who plays Logan Roy in Succession?
Brian Cox plays Logan Roy in Succession. He has been praised for his portrayal of the character and has won several awards for his performance.
5. Why is Succession so popular?
Succession is popular because of its captivating storyline, relatable characters, and realistic portrayal of the lives of wealthy and powerful media tycoons and their families. The show has also been praised for its sly callbacks that remind viewers of earlier episodes, and the commentary it provides on our political and social landscape.
