Why Did Shiv Change Her Mind? Who Plays Shiv Roy on Succession? Succession Series Finale

In the last episode of Succession, Shiv's decision to change her mind about who should be the CEO can be attributed to several factors. One significant reason is her lack of trust in her brother's ability to run the company and be like their father, Logan. When Kendall sat in Logan's chair during their confrontation,

Why did Shiv change her mind? Read this article and find out why Shiv changed her mind and who plays this role in the series Succession.

Why Did Shiv Change Her Mind? 

In the last episode of Succession, Shiv's decision to change her mind about who should be the CEO can be attributed to several factors. One significant reason is her lack of trust in her brother's ability to run the company and be like their father, Logan. When Kendall sat in Logan's chair during their confrontation, Shiv's mood drastically shifted.

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During their heated conversation, Shiv asked Kendall if he had killed anybody, referencing a waiter's death that Kendall had covered up in season one. Although Kendall initially denied it, he eventually admitted to accidentally causing the young man's death. Shiv then expressed her inability to support Kendall, stating, "I can't stomach you."

It is clear that she could not envision her brother as a suitable leader for the company, which is a stark contrast to the scene where they crowned Kendall as the "King" during a gathering with their siblings. Some theories and speculations emerged on social media platforms like Twitter regarding Shiv's decision.

One theory suggested that Shiv was looking out for her future with her new baby and saw Tom as a more fitting CEO. This idea implied that she was avoiding repeating her mother's unhappy life as the spouse of a CEO, and she may have been resentful of being reduced to eye candy for Matsson, a potential future CEO.

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Another theory proposed that Shiv's decision stemmed from her inability to witness Kendall succeed. According to this interpretation, Shiv chose Tom over Kendall out of a primal and childish desire to prevent Kendall from winning their father's love and the firm itself.

Hunter Harris, a Succession mega fan and writer, believed that Shiv's actions were driven by jealousy and self-preservation. She suggested that Shiv saw Tom as a means to secure her own power within the company, as opposed to having to share it with her brothers. Harris also expressed doubt in Kendall's ability to lead, noting his tendency to self-destruct and merely emulate their father.

Matthew Macfadyen, who plays Tom, shared his perspective on Shiv's decision, stating that he never thought she chose him but rather rejected her brother. He believed that Shiv's choice was not a rational one and that it was driven by visceral emotions, particularly her inability to stomach Kendall. Macfadyen also highlighted the weight of Shiv's decision, considering the recent betrayal by Matsson.

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Jeremy Strong, who portrays Kendall, described Shiv's decision as devastating. He compared it to a moment in "Of Mice and Men" where one must hurt the things they love, stating that Shiv and Roman had the power to end Kendall's life with a single sentence, evoking a gloating quality in Shiv's eyes.

Sarah Snook, the actress behind Shiv, drew parallels between her character and Logan, emphasizing their shared experience of fighting against familial dynamics. Snook believed that Shiv's ambitions in a male-dominated industry, coupled with her family's influence, compelled her to constantly fight against the odds.

Director Mark Mylod expressed optimism about Shiv and Tom's future during a Succession podcast. He believed that their relationship would work despite underlying tensions and resentments, as is typical in lifelong relationships. In conclusion, Shiv's decision to reject Kendall and support Tom as the CEO was influenced by her lack of trust in Kendall, her own aspirations and ambitions, jealousy, self-preservation, and potentially securing her future with her new baby.

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The finale's impact on the actors and director highlighted the emotional weight and complexity of the characters' relationships and decisions.

Who Plays Shiv Roy On Succession?

Sarah Ruth Snook is an Australian actress who has gained recognition for her talent and versatile performances. She rose to prominence with her role as Shiv Roy in the television series Succession, which garnered critical acclaim and earned her prestigious awards such as a Golden Globe and a Critics' Choice Television Award. She has also received nominations for Primetime Emmy Awards.

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Snook's filmography includes a diverse range of movies. She has appeared in films like Not Suitable for Children (2012), These Final Hours (2013), Predestination (2014), The Dressmaker (2015), Steve Jobs (2015), The Glass Castle (2017), and Pieces of a Woman (2020). Her performances in Sisters of War (2010) and Predestination (2014) earned her two AACTA Awards.

Snook's acting journey began at NIDA (National Institute of Dramatic Art), where she honed her skills and performed in stage productions of Macbeth and Gallipoli. She went on to showcase her talent in productions such as King Lear with the State Theatre Company of South Australia and Saint Joan with the Sydney Theatre Company.

In addition to her successful acting career, Snook has ventured into other projects. In 2022, she narrated the Netflix documentary Kangaroo Valley, showcasing her versatility beyond acting. In her personal life, Snook married Australian comedian Dave Lawson in 2021, and they welcomed a daughter in 2023. Her commitment to both her professional and personal life reflects her dedication and passion for her craft.

Sarah Ruth Snook has established herself as a talented and respected actress, delivering memorable performances on both the small and big screens. Her versatility, critical acclaim, and awards highlight her status as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.

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Succession Series Finale

The ending of Succession is filled with complexities and leaves viewers with a mix of emotions. It's a culmination of the characters' journeys and the consequences of their actions. While it's difficult to fully explain the intricacies of the finale, here's a glimpse of where each character ended up.

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Kendall finally achieved the validation he always craved from his siblings, with Roman and Shiv supporting him to become the CEO. However, their unity quickly unraveled during the board vote, and Kendall was left devastated and alone, staring out at the water. His path forward seems uncertain and marked by profound sadness.

Roman, after seeking solace at his mother's house, reluctantly sided with Kendall in the board vote. But during the intense confrontation in the conference room, Roman appeared to switch allegiances and side with Shiv. The final shot of him alone at a bar, ordering a martini, hints at his internal conflicts and his uncertain future.

Shiv, always adept at playing both sides, initially aligned herself with Lukas Matsson but was eventually cut out of the deal. She realigned with her brothers and agreed that Kendall was the best choice for CEO. However, when it came time to vote, Shiv couldn't bring herself to support her brother. Her motivations remain unclear, and her last scene with Tom in the car portrays a sense of unhappiness and dissatisfaction.

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Tom, in a surprising turn of events, manages to secure the CEO position by getting close to Matsson. Despite betraying Shiv, he allows her some involvement in the deal. While Tom may appear to be the closest to a "winner" in the show, there is an underlying sense that the crown he wears is cursed, leaving his ultimate fate uncertain. As for Connor and Willa, their storylines in the finale are left open-ended, leaving viewers to speculate about their futures and the impact of their choices.

The ending of Succession leaves audiences with lingering questions and a sense of curiosity about what lies ahead for these complex and flawed characters. It's a testament to the show's intricate storytelling and the depth of its characters that even in the final moments, there are no clear winners or resolution, but rather a reflection of the complexities of power, family dynamics, and the consequences of their actions.

Succession Finale Review

Succession has concluded its extraordinary run with a finale that exemplifies the show's mastery of storytelling and its ability to captivate audiences with its complex characters and gripping plotlines. The culmination of this season showcased the perils of swimming with sharks, metaphorically representing the challenges faced by the Roy children as they tried to fill their father's shoes, only to realize the immense weight of his legacy.

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The finale brilliantly tied together the key relationships that had been meticulously developed throughout the series. From Kendall's haunting solitude, resembling his father but devoid of the status and family support, to the unsettling revelation of Shiv and Tom's willingness to sacrifice each other for personal gain, the episode expertly navigated the intricate dynamics of the Roy family.

The focus on the family dynasty, with politics as a mere backdrop, reaffirmed the show's core theme and kept viewers fully engaged. The final scenes were both heartwarming and poignant, as the Roy siblings found a fleeting moment of camaraderie in their mother's kitchen.

Despite their dysfunctional upbringing, their shared bond as siblings shone through, reminding us of the enduring ties that exist beneath the ruthless exterior. This juxtaposition of warmth and ruthlessness is what makes Succession so compelling. Additionally, the inclusion of Greg's role in unraveling the betrayals and his hilarious interactions, including the hilariously awful slap contests with Tom, added a touch of comedic relief amid the high-stakes drama.

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The show effortlessly balanced its dark humor with its gripping narrative, further elevating its appeal. The climax of the episode centered around the boardroom meeting, where the tension reached its peak. Shiv's refusal to support Kendall's ascension as CEO and her poignant reminder of his past mistakes, combined with Kendall's desperate plea to claim his birthright, showcased the intricate power dynamics within the family.

The undeniable truth emerged that the Roy name alone could not guarantee success or escape their father's formidable shadow. The alliance between Shiv and Tom, marked by pragmatism rather than genuine affection, and Kendall's shattered dreams of ruling his father's empire solidified the bittersweet nature of the finale.

It highlighted the fact that even the wealthiest and most powerful individuals are not immune to the constraints of their own design. The poignant line, "I am like a cog built to fit only one machine," encapsulated Kendall's realization of his predetermined role in the family's web of power.

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Succession has not only cemented its place among the great TV shows but has also exceeded expectations by delivering a conclusion that will be remembered for its unparalleled drama and humor. While it may not have answered every question, it left a lasting impact, leaving viewers with a sense of awe and admiration for its remarkable storytelling. Series creator Jesse Armstrong's commitment to excellence is evident throughout, and the finale is a testament to his unwavering dedication.

If you haven't already immersed yourself in the world of "Succession," now is the time. Experience the brilliance of its writing, the depth of its characters, and the unparalleled storytelling that make it a true masterpiece. Join the legions of fans who have been captivated by this remarkable series and prepare to be spellbound from start to finish.



Why Did Shiv Change Her Mind? - FAQs

1.  What was the overall message conveyed by the finale?  

The finale emphasized the limits of the Roy name and the inability of the children to escape the influence of their father. It showcased the fragility of familial bonds and the sacrifices individuals are willing to make for power and success.

2. Will there be future seasons or spin-offs of "Succession"?   

As of now, there have been no official announcements regarding future seasons or spin-offs of "Succession." However, given its critical acclaim and popularity, it is possible that the show could continue or explore new narratives in the future.

3. Who was the creator of "Succession"?  

"Succession" was created by Jesse Armstrong, who also served as the show's executive producer and head writer. 

4. Where can I watch "Succession"?  

"Succession" is available to stream on HBO and its streaming platforms, such as HBO Max. 

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