Succession, the Emmy-winning series that captivated audiences for four seasons, may have concluded, but the impact of its finale continues to resonate. Director Mark Mylod, who was nominated for an Emmy for the episode “Connor’s Wedding,” reflects on the character endings and the show’s success in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter.
Mylod begins by expressing his satisfaction with ending the series after four seasons. He acknowledges the tendency of shows to overstay their welcome and appreciates the opportunity to deliver a strong final season. The 27 Emmy nominations that Succession received serve as validation that they did not “mess up” the ending, which was a great relief for the cast and crew.
Despite the conclusion of the series, Mylod still finds himself missing the Roy family and the camaraderie among the actors. He admits that he often thinks about the characters, particularly Kendall, Shiv, and Roman, as if they were old friends he has lost contact with. However, his longing for the actors themselves, who are scattered across different locations, has become more present.
When asked about Shiv’s future as CEO Tom’s wife, Mylod describes her as being in a delicate but powerful position. With the redrawn power dynamic between her and Tom, Shiv is adjacent to power and holds tremendous influence. He compares her to Lady Macbeth, suggesting that she will continue to play her hand and assert her authority.
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Regarding Kendall’s final shot, Mylod expresses hope that he is still alive in the world of Succession. He believes that Kendall will go through various stages, trying different strategies and plans that may not amount to much. However, he remains optimistic, drawing a parallel between Kendall’s struggles and those of a relative or a child who is searching for their place in the world.
Mylod explores Roman’s character, noting that he wears a mask due to his upbringing. He believes that Roman’s ability to connect emotionally is greatly hindered, but he is not concerned about his physical well-being. Mylod shares a cut line from Roman’s final scene, which serves as a bookend to the first line of dialogue he spoke in the series. He suggests that Roman finds himself back where he started, trapped in a cycle.
Discussing the open-ended questions left by the finale, Mylod reveals that he is not often asked questions about the show, possibly because he has kept a low profile. However, when he is asked, it is usually about the possibility of a fifth season. He appreciates the fans’ desire to continue following the characters’ stories and witnessing their disasters.
Mylod reflects on the emotional hug between Kendall and Roman in the finale, stating that it remains a complex moment that is difficult to define. He believes it encompasses elements of bullying, masochism, and love, making it one of the show’s most powerful scenes.
The interview concludes with a discussion of the show’s record-breaking 27 Emmy nominations. Mylod expresses his happiness for his colleagues, particularly Alan Ruck, who plays Connor. Ruck’s work had often been overshadowed in the past, but season four allowed his character to shine. Mylod takes pride in the team effort and the opportunity to deliver an episode that does justice to the passing of a significant character, Logan Roy.
In conclusion, Mark Mylod reflects on the lingering impact of Succession’s finale, acknowledging both the satisfaction of a well-received ending and the bittersweet feeling of saying goodbye to beloved characters. The interview sheds light on the director’s thoughts and provides insights into the futures of Kendall, Shiv, and Roman, leaving room for viewers’ interpretations and speculations.
