ArtReview essay analyzes 'Succession' as prestige television's aesthetic and narrative triumph

An ArtReview essay examines the television series 'Succession' (2018-23), positioning it within the canon of prestige TV alongside shows like 'The Sopranos' (1999-2007), 'Mad Men' (2007-15), and 'Breaking Bad' (2008-13). The analysis argues the show's greatness stems from its portrayal of generational conflict, narrative structure mirroring a news cycle, and its subversion of the patriarchal 'big daddy' archetype common to earlier prestige dramas. Characters such as Logan Roy and his children Kendall, Shiv, and Roman are depicted as Shakespearean figures trapped in a cycle of failure, reflecting a broader tension between boomers and millennials. The essay highlights the series' aesthetic elements, including its music, visuals, and sharp dialogue, while noting its post-Trump context and exploration of collective nightmares. Key plot points are referenced, such as Kendall's ultimate failure to gain control of Waystar Royco and the siblings' collective inadequacy, encapsulated by the phrase 'not serious people.' The final episode's resolutions for characters like Tom, Greg, and Connor are detailed, emphasizing the show's conservative narrative outcomes. The piece frames 'Succession' as an entertainment achievement that masterfully blends comedy, tragedy, and social commentary.