More than two years after its acclaimed finale, TVLine has ranked the endings of every major character in HBO's Succession, evaluating how well they resolved individual arcs amid the Roy family's power struggles. The list spans from confusing fades to triumphant conclusions, highlighting the series' sharp writing and thematic depth.
Overview of the Ranking
Succession, the Emmy-winning HBO drama that concluded in spring 2023, centered on the Roy family's battle against a tech takeover following a key tragedy. TVLine's retrospective ranks 25 character outcomes based on dramatic satisfaction within their arcs, warning of major spoilers for all four seasons. The analysis draws parallels to real-world media moguls and explores betrayals, deaths, and victories that defined the series.
Lowest Rankings: Underwhelming Fades
At the bottom, minor characters like Grace Roy and Tabitha Hayes rank 25th for their abrupt, off-screen disappearances after early romantic ties to Roman Roy. Sandy and Sandi Furness (24th) shift from threats to sidelined figures, echoing Sumner Redstone's story, while Rava Roy (23rd) cuts ties with Kendall amid ethical fears over Waystar's influence. Political figures Nate Sofrelli and Gil Eavis (22nd) return briefly as adversaries but lack depth, and the Pierce family (21st) endures a repeated, overpriced buyout attempt.
Mid-Tier: Corporate Intrigue
Antagonists like Lawrence Yee (20th) and Stewy Hosseini (19th) fade after initial threats, with Stewy offering a late, undercut loyalty. Kerry Castellabate (18th) faces ridicule and exile post-Logan, while PR rivals Hugo Baker and Karolina Novotney (17th) see Karolina prevail. Jamie Laird (16th) exits dramatically after failed deals, and Rhea Jarrell (15th) uncovers Logan's flaws during hearings.
Higher Stakes: Family and Power Plays
Caroline Collingwood (14th) manipulates for personal gain, board members Frank Vernon and Karl Muller (13th) eye retirement before dismissal, and Ewan Roy (12th) delivers a poignant eulogy. Jeryd Mencken (11th) wins a tainted election via ATN's call, and Lukas Matsson (10th) dominates as the tech victor. Gerri Kellman (9th) navigates alliances wisely for post-Roy survival.
Top Endings: Core Roys and Allies
Connor Roy and Willa Ferreyra (8th) face a hollow future after a failed presidential bid. Greg Hirsch (7th) secures a humiliating spot through betrayal. Marcia Roy (6th) emerges strong and independent. Roman Roy (5th) achieves nihilistic freedom at a bar. Tom Wambsgans (4th) rises as CEO in a poetic twist fulfilling the show's premise. Kendall Roy (3rd) confronts his hollow self by the water. Logan Roy (2nd) dies shockingly alone, underscoring vulnerability. Shiv Roy tops at 1st, her sudden turn against Kendall capturing her complex power dynamic, emblematic of the series' themes.