Fans and critics alike were disappointed to learn that the highly anticipated release of Succession season 5 will not be happening. The hit HBO series recently aired its final episode, titled "With Open Eyes", on May 28th, 2023. This gripping finale effectively concluded the complex and intertwined storylines of the Roy family, leaving viewers both exhilarated and somber. Since its debut in 2018, Succession has captivated audiences with its captivating characters, clever humor, and thought-provoking examination of generational trauma within the corporate world. The show's remarkable success has been recognized with a total of 13 Emmy Awards.
While the conclusion of the series finale left room for the possibility of a fifth season, it provided a satisfying resolution for the central characters. Kendall Roy has lost his grip on the company, Roman finds himself aimless and likely embarking on a hedonistic path, Shiv wields little to no authority in her family's business after betraying her brothers, and Tom has risen to the position of American CEO at Waystar Royco. Unfortunately, despite the limited closure afforded to some characters, the prospect of a Succession season 5 remains uncertain.
Creator Jesse Armstrong Decided Succession Season 4 Would Be The End
HBO Would've Liked Succession Season 5 (If Armstrong Had Agreed)
: Succession, a highly acclaimed series, will conclude with season 4, according to its creator and showrunner Jesse Armstrong. Despite its potential to continue further, Armstrong made the conscious decision not to proceed with a season 5 release. After careful consideration since the end of season 2, he believed that a natural culmination awaited Kendall, Roman, Shiv, and Logan after season 3. By avoiding unnecessary prolongation, Armstrong aimed to maintain the exceptional quality and timely essence of the series.It's no surprise that a Succession season 5 release would have been approved by HBO if Armstrong had agreed. Casey Bloys, the CEO of HBO, desired more of the show but recognized that the final decision should be left to Armstrong. While HBO has undeniably benefited from Succession's remarkable achievement at the Emmy's, Bloys acknowledged that a critically acclaimed series like this would be best concluded according to the creator's intentions. Bloys would have given the green light for additional seasons of Succession, but he respected Armstrong's preference to conclude it after four seasons.
What Would Succession Season 5 Have Looked Like?
If a release date for Succession season 5 had been planned, it would have likely resulted in a significant shift in the nature of the show. Armstrong mentioned considering various possibilities, such as shorter seasons or taking the show in a completely different direction. This could have resulted in a more unpredictable and relaxed format, with both good and bad weeks. Additionally, Succession season 5 could have seamlessly continued from the fallout in season 4, exploring Tom's role as CEO, the uncertainty surrounding Mencken's presidential win, and the future of the Roy children.
Succession season 5 might have delved deeper into Logan's past, shedding light on his establishment of Waystar and the personal demons he struggled with following the death of his sister Rose and the mistreatment of Connor's mother during his first marriage. Furthermore, the early relationship between the Roy children and their father could have been further explored, providing more depth to their characters and elucidating the reasons behind their actions in seasons 1 through 4. In addition to the release of Succession season 5, there could have been a spin-off series focusing on popular characters like Greg or Stewy.