The fourth season of HBO’s hit drama series Succession has been one of the most anticipated television events of 2021. It premiered on October 17, 2021, to high expectations from fans and critics alike. The question on everyone’s mind was whether the latest installment would live up to the hype generated since the critically acclaimed show’s first season premiered in 2018.
Succession follows the Roy family, a wealthy and dysfunctional media conglomerate, as they navigate the world of high-stakes business, family politics, and personal drama. Led by patriarch Logan Roy (Brian Cox), the family’s business empire is fragile and at risk of falling apart due to the power struggles and backstabbing within the family. The show’s tension-filled plot and compelling characters have made it a fan favorite, and fans eagerly awaited the fourth season.
So, did Succession season 4 live up to the hype? The answer is yes, it did, but not in the way fans might have expected.
The fourth season of Succession picks up where the last season left off, with Kendall (Jeremy Strong) betraying his father and announcing his intention to expose the family’s wrongdoing. Logan is determined to keep his family’s empire intact, while Kendall is equally determined to bring it down. The first few episodes of the season focus on the fallout from Kendall’s announcement and the resulting power struggle within the family.
One of the strengths of Succession is its ensemble cast, and season 4 expands on the already strong slate of characters. While the focus is still primarily on the Roy family, new characters are introduced, and existing characters are given more prominent roles. Succession’s characters are complex, flawed, and often unlikable, but they are also incredibly compelling. The acting is superb, with particular praise given to Brian Cox’s performance as the ruthless Logan Roy.
Succession is known for its biting humor, and season 4 doesn’t disappoint in that regard. The show’s writers excel at creating clever, witty dialogue that is both hilarious and revealing of the characters’ personalities. However, the humor is often dark, and the show doesn’t shy away from tackling serious issues such as addiction, mental health, and the corrupting influence of power.
One of the standout episodes of the season is “Tern Haven,” which pits the Roy family against the Pierce family, another media empire. The episode is a masterclass in tension, with both families engaging in a power struggle that is both entertaining and uncomfortable to watch. The episode’s final scene, which features a stunning twist, is sure to be one of the season’s most talked-about moments.
While Succession season 4 delivers plenty of the drama and tension that fans have come to expect, it also takes some risks and veers off in unexpected directions. In previous seasons, the show focused primarily on the Roy family’s business dealings, but this season explores the characters’ personal lives more deeply. Relationships are tested, and secrets are revealed, leading to some surprising character developments.
One of the highlights of the season is Shiv’s (Sarah Snook) story arc, which sees her struggling to assert her independence and prove herself as a capable leader. The character, who has often been overshadowed by her more assertive siblings, gets to shine in season 4, and Snook’s nuanced performance is a standout.
Another notable aspect of the season is its exploration of the media landscape and its influence on politics. Succession has always been a show about power, but season 4 delves deeper into the intersection of power, media, and politics. The show’s creators have always been keen observers of the real-world media landscape, and this season’s commentary on the rise of media moguls and their political influence is particularly timely.
In conclusion, Succession season 4 lives up to the hype, and then some. The show’s writers and cast continue to excel, delivering a season that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. While the season doesn’t always follow the expected path, it takes risks that pay off, resulting in a thrilling and satisfying viewing experience. Succession season 4 reminds us why the show is one of the best on television and leaves fans eagerly anticipating what’s in store for the Roy family in the future.
