In the latest episode of HBO’s acclaimed series “Succession,” titled “Honeymoon States,” viewers are treated to a riveting exploration of life in the aftermath of Logan Roy’s sudden passing. The fourth episode of the fourth season deftly combines humour and pathos, as the Roy siblings and their associates grapple with the void left by their father’s death. Amidst the chaos, the show embraces its title more than ever, showcasing the power struggles and emotional turmoil that ensue within the Roy family and their corporate empire.
A Power Vacuum Filled with Chaos
Logan’s unexpected demise has thrown his adult children into disarray, each vying for the opportunity to step into his shoes while simultaneously mourning the complex legacy he left behind. The episode highlights their frantic attempts to secure their positions within Waystar Royco, with each character’s ambitions colliding against the backdrop of their shared grief. As they navigate their new reality, the siblings exhibit a blend of desperation and dark humour, providing plenty of laughs amid the tension.
Shiv (Sarah Snook) offers a particularly sharp reflection during her reading of her father’s obituary, quipping, “Dad sounds amazing. I would like to have met dad.” This moment encapsulates the show’s unique ability to blend the absurd with the profound, allowing viewers to laugh even as they contemplate the complicated familial relationships at play.
Marcia and Kerri: The Women in Logan’s Life
The episode also marks the return of Marcia Roy (Hiam Abbass), Logan’s formidable wife, who appears to reclaim her stake in the family drama. In what can only be described as a “Marcia Strikes Back” moment, her presence serves as a stark reminder of the complexities of loyalty and power within the Roy household. Contrastingly, Kerri (Zoe Winter), Logan’s much younger girlfriend, faces a swift exit—a scene reminiscent of the musical “Evita,” where one character is unceremoniously booted out, leaving behind the remnants of a once-cherished relationship.
The tension between Marcia and Kerri adds another layer to the already intricate dynamics of the Roy family, illustrating how the quest for power extends beyond corporate walls and into personal relationships.
Dark Humour Amidst Corporate Turmoil
As the executives at Waystar Royco process Logan’s death, they find themselves grappling with the implications of his posthumous wishes. The absurdity of their discussions—joking about throwing away a document containing Logan’s handwritten notes about succession—reveals the depths of their discomfort and the chaotic environment they now inhabit. Their attempts to navigate corporate politics are underscored by biting humour, with Carl (David Rasche) launching into scathing critiques of Tom (Matthew Macfadyen), further escalating the tension between characters who are all too aware of the stakes involved.
In a particularly poignant moment, Kendall (Jeremy Strong) articulates his conflicting feelings about his father to Waystar executive Frank (Peter Friedman), revealing the emotional scars left by a man who both inspired fear and admiration. “He made me hate him, and he died. I feel like he didn’t like me. I disappointed him,” Kendall confesses, encapsulating the deep-seated issues that continue to plague the Roy family.
The Fragility of Trust
As the Roy siblings attempt to establish a temporary leadership structure, Shiv finds herself sidelined in the discussions surrounding the CEO position. Her brothers’ assurances ring hollow, highlighting the precarious nature of trust in a world where betrayal lurks just beneath the surface. “I need to wet my beak,” Shiv says, a phrase that underscores her desire for involvement and the potential for discord among the siblings.
Ultimately, the episode marks a critical turning point for the series as it transitions from mourning to strategising, reflecting the relentless pursuit of power that has always defined the Roy family. As Kendall notes regarding the “bad dad” PR leaks, “that is what he would do,” signalling a shift in focus from grief to the ruthless manoeuvring that has come to characterise their lives.
Why it Matters
“Honeymoon States” serves as a powerful reminder of the complexities inherent in familial and corporate legacies. The episode not only delves into the intricacies of grief but also showcases the darkly humorous undertones that have become a hallmark of “Succession.” As the Roy siblings navigate their uncertain future, the show raises critical questions about loyalty, ambition, and the lengths individuals will go to secure their place in a cutthroat corporate world. In a landscape where trust is ephemeral, the episode masterfully illustrates how the quest for power can overshadow even the most profound human connections.
