The Succession finale concluded with a twist that fans had anticipated: a lack of a Roy at the helm. The central query now centers on the fates of the principal characters after the credits roll. In this climactic episode, despite Kendall Roy’s (played by Jeremy Strong) fervent efforts, Waystar RoyCo is sold to GoJo and its enigmatic leader, Lukas Matsson (Alexander Skarsgård). The Roy family saga, tinged with rivalry and betrayal, concludes as siblings prioritize their spite over any personal triumphs. This magnificent ending serves as a fitting capstone to one of television’s finest dramas of the past decade and a half.
The Roy family lineage is notably thin, as three of Logan Roy’s (Brian Cox) children chose not to have offspring, leaving just a handful who can truly claim the Roy name. The main lineage comprises Kendall, Siobhan (Sarah Snook), Roman (Kieran Culkin), and Connor (Alan Ruck), while Logan’s lone brother, Ewan (James Cromwell), brings in a grandson, Greg Hirsch (Nicholas Braun). Interestingly, even the parentage of Kendall’s two children is surrounded by ambiguity. Ultimately, the future of the Roy family is thus limited to six individuals.
6 Kendall Roy
Misses His Opportunity to Lead Waystar RoyCo
As arguably the key figure in Succession, Kendall’s journey often held a central focus. The series ultimately culminates with him gazing upon the Hudson River, reflecting on the losses he has endured within a mere few hours. His future, like many aspects of the finale, invites various interpretations. Some fans speculate that Kendall could end his life in despair, a notion he has grappled with throughout the series. This interpretation is supported by behind-the-scenes insights, where Strong was directed to approach the water in an improvisational scene (as discussed in Variety).
Conversely, there’s the possibility that Kendall continues to navigate life, albeit as a diminished version of his former self. Director Mark Mylod suggests this alternative outcome, potentially leading to a more tragic realization of a life spent in purposelessness. Mylod remarks:
“So we don’t necessarily need to go to that kind of literal, physical move toward that railing. By not implicitly doing that, we keep open another and perhaps even more likely but equally tragic future for the character, and that is that he would just have to live out his life in that purposeful emptiness of unfulfilled destiny. A purgatory of unfulfilled ambition for the character.”
Should Kendall confront his failure, it would serve as a fittingly harsh punishment for a character always in search of purpose. I envision a scenario in which Kendall does not take his own life but instead finds himself in a lavish yet ultimately hollow existence.
5 Siobhan “Shiv”Roy
Remains Married to Tom Wambsgans
As Succession concludes, Shiv finds herself unable to shed the disdain of watching her brother seize power, culminating in the vote that crushes Kendall’s CEO ambitions. She opts to stand alongside Tom (Matthew Macfadyen) once more, slipping back into the shadows of another powerful man—a move that feels almost ironic given Shiv’s relentless drive for control.
Mylod speculates that while their marriage might endure, it may not be a particularly joyful arrangement. Shiv’s path forward could lead her to emulate a more appealing version of her mother, Caroline. It’s plausible that Shiv eventually opts for a divorce, likely after they expand their family. Although Tom has genuine affection for her, the fractures in their relationship may prove irreparable. While she may lead a lonely existence, I foresee her showing more warmth than her mother.
4 Roman Roy
Enjoys a Martini in Solitude
Roman concludes Succession seeming to exhibit the least personal growth compared to his siblings, which is reminiscent of his self-awareness. This irony is striking, as after four seasons, his biggest lesson may just be a preference for martinis. However, Roman appears to possess unique opportunities for success compared to his siblings, seeing through their theatrics. He acknowledges that they are merely “playing with toy soldiers”and are ill-suited for a serious role in the Waystar saga.
His aspirations extend beyond his family legacy—he exhibited a clear interest in pursuing projects on his terms after departing Waystar. If any character has a chance of achieving his own success, it’s Roman. Nonetheless, his reckless nature suggests that he might undermine himself at a critical moment.
3 Ewan Roy
Opposes the GoJo Deal
Following Ewan’s impassioned speech at Logan’s funeral, one might assume he would want to disassociate the Roy family from Waystar entirely. However, he surprisingly votes against the GoJo acquisition, illustrating support for Kendall instead. Ewan perceives the prospect of allowing a colossal conglomerate to swallow Waystar as a dire outcome compared to Kendall taking the reins.
As for Ewan’s own future? It seems likely he’ll return to Canada, potentially severing bonds with his grandson Greg, who has never garnered Ewan’s favor in his corporate endeavors. With a considerable stockholding in Waystar and a lucrative payout following the sale, Ewan can pursue whatever he pleases with his newfound wealth, likely continued donations to Greenpeace as previously indicated.
2 Greg Hirsch
Rescued by Tom Wambsgans
Greg Hirsch, the ever-surviving connection within the Roy family, clings to his position through a mixture of survival instinct, strategic maneuvering, and persistence. Despite the challenges he faces, his intelligence, admirable work ethic, and desire to remain under the radar have served him well. Almost sabotaging himself in the finale, Tom ultimately intervenes, rescuing Greg in the nick of time. Although Greg often finds himself sidelined, he remains loyal to Tom.
As Ewan’s daughter, Greg occupies a unique position within the family dynamics. His attempt to undermine Tom might have been misguided but reflects the lessons he has internalized throughout the series. Their bond transcends mere work, rooted in a complex friendship that sees Greg rising through the ranks. Regardless of their conflicts, the enduring connection between Tom and Greg remains pivotal in shaping their futures.
1 Connor Roy
“Happily”Married to Willa and Residing in Logan’s Former Apartment
While Connor Roy may not resonate as loudly as his siblings, he possesses one of the most intriguing arcs within Succession. Beyond anyone else in the family, Connor seems self-aware, having found contentment upon marrying Willa (Justine Lupe). Their relationship, though marked by uncertainty, reflects a mutual understanding of what their union entails.
Living in his father’s estate, Connor’s bond with Logan appears stronger than that of his siblings. Though I doubt Connor and Willa’s marriage is destined for the long haul, any potential separation would likely be amicable. Connor might engage in niche political endeavors, collect peculiar historical artifacts, and embrace a lifestyle where enjoyment of his immense wealth takes precedence over excessive introspection.