Why Kendall's Transformation Was The Most Important Thing In Succession Season 4 Episode 4

If you're a die-hard fan of "Succession," you've probably just witnessed the rollercoaster ride that was Season 4, Episode 4. And boy, oh boy, what an episode it was! It's safe to say that this episode served as the perfect follow-up to what was arguably the most pivotal episode in the show's history. The title itself, "Succession," carries a profound weight as it revolves around the question of who will succeed Logan Roy, especially given his early exit from the final season.

In this wild and wonderful journey through the world of the Roy family, Episode 4 brought us on a transformational rollercoaster. Through the lens of Kendall, the show opened and closed, creating an intriguing approach that deserves some dissecting. So, let's delve into why Kendall's transformation in this episode is the lynchpin of the entire narrative.

Unpacking Kendall's Metamorphosis

Before we dig into the nitty-gritty, here's your spoiler warning because, trust me, you don't want to miss out on this game-changing episode. Kendall Roy, one of the central characters, experienced a transformation that can only be described as monumental.

In the Season 2 finale, the haunting words, "you're not a killer; you have to be a killer," were uttered. Those words had been haunting Kendall for years, and Episode 4 now brought this theme to the forefront. Kendall's first display of a "killer instinct" comes as he boldly steps into the CEO role at Waystar, the position he's long coveted. This transformation is pivotal not only for the storyline but also for the fate of Kendall's character.

As the episode begins, Kendall appears to be utterly distraught by the sudden death of his father, Logan Roy. Understandably so. But it's only when we contrast his reaction with those of his siblings that it feels a tad offbeat. Roman appears relatively unperturbed, Shiv has her mind on other matters, but Kendall? Well, he's on the floor of his apartment, wrapped in a blanket, seemingly in no hurry to pick up the pieces.

However, it doesn't take long for something to reignite Kendall's spirit. As he arrives at the family home, his demeanor begins to change. He seems detached, as if he's struggling to recognize the people around him or to comprehend their conversations about their late father.

Kendall's transformation comes to the forefront when he speaks with Hugo, an old friend, and colleague. He learns that Hugo's daughter sold her Waystar stocks right before the news of Logan's demise broke. Kendall's response to Hugo is as expected - he supports his friend and ensures he doesn't get into any trouble. But as the episode unfolds, Kendall experiences a shift in mood, sparked by a piece of paper.

The piece of paper contains Kendall's name, and it suggests that he should take over as CEO. Yet, there's uncertainty surrounding whether Logan had crossed out Kendall's name or underlined it. This ambiguity is a significant reflection of the complex relationship between father and son. It leaves Kendall with an unsettling sense of uncertainty and guilt for not being there in his father's final moments and for the turbulence in their relationship.

The Catalyst: A Deeper Dive into Kendall's Transformation

Kendall and his brother, Roman, are appointed as joint CEOs of Waystar. Initially, they agree on a softer approach in their press release, emphasizing that it was part of an emergency plan per their father's wishes. But when Roman departs, Kendall's eyes are drawn back to that fateful piece of paper with his name on it.

In a bold move, Kendall decides to go against his brother's wishes and opts for a harsher tone, tarnishing his father's image in death. He suggests that Logan had lost his faculties toward the end, implying that the Roy siblings had been steering the ship. What's more, Kendall manipulates Hugo into going along with his plan, leveraging some dark secrets he holds over him. In this instance, Kendall displays a true "Logan Roy" persona, putting someone in an uncomfortable position and using it to his advantage.

This transformation is so significant because it sheds light on Kendall's inner turmoil. He seems to believe that his father didn't view him as the killer he needed to be, hence crossing out his name. If he had full confidence in his ability to lead, there would be no need for such drastic actions. This internal struggle is the root cause of Kendall's newfound ruthlessness.

The Domino Effect and Future Implications

Kendall's actions, such as manipulating Hugo and going against his brother's decision, have broader implications. It's a peek into the future of "Succession." With all the Roy siblings now seated at the head of the table, conflicts and decisions will inevitably strain their relationship.

The transformation in Kendall, his newfound power-hungry attitude, and his willingness to break promises could very well tear the family apart. Kendall's actions might set off a chain reaction that leads to the siblings' downfall.

In the coming episodes, it will be fascinating to witness how Kendall's character continues to evolve. Will he stay true to his word and make decisions that benefit everyone, or will the power he's gained fuel his ambition further? One thing is certain - we're in for a wild ride, and the transformation of Kendall Roy is just the beginning.

So, buckle up, "Succession" fans, because things are about to get even more electrifying, and Kendall's transformation is at the heart of it all. Can he handle the newfound power, or will he be consumed by it? Only time will tell, and we can't wait to see how it all unfolds. Stay tuned for more thrilling episodes of the Roy family drama!