‘Succession’ recap: S3 E6 – “What It Takes”

While last week’s Succession might have been the most compelling episode of the entire series, tonight’s episode laid the groundwork for what’s to come as we are fast approaching the finale of season 3. The hints were subtle by design but effective. It’s always been about maintaining control for Logan, and he will do or say anything to stay on top. Will he still keep control? That remains to be seen. Here are 5 takeaways from tonight’s episode.

5. His own worst enemy

While the banter between Shiv (Sarah Snook) and Roman (Kiernan Culkin) about whether Logan and his new assistant are “hooking up” is hysterical, their father’s exploits might lead to his undoing. Remember, he negotiated an agreement with his then third wife, Marcia (Hiam Abbas), to return for a similar issue in the 2nd season. What was in that agreement? Nobody exactly knows that answer, but what stood out was how she went on about wanting certain protections. Were those protections just financial, or did she add a morality clause to their prenuptial agreement? Marcia isn’t foolish, and it wouldn’t shock me if somehow she orchestrated some way to hit him where it hurts.

4.  How bad do you want it

Kendall (Jeremy Strong) has felt this entire time that he held all the cards in this battle with dear old dad, but his legal team gives him a reality check when they state the case might not be a lock. Complicating matters is an unwillingness to accept some blame for what was done at Waystar. Kendall even attempts to get Tom to help in implicating his father. As it stands now, the only way this case might achieve its desired objective is if he sacrifices himself, which would likely implicate his dad.

3. Power

This episode makes a statement about the power of wealth and how it shapes the future of this country. As everyone is clamoring for logan’s endorsement, as the Republican party looks for a candidate to replace their outgoing President, there seems to be a lack of consensus as to who can step in as a replacement for “raisin.” While the idea of this gathering in Virginia as simply a work of fiction seems ludicrous, the idea that this is based on some reality is frightening. A select few deciding the fate of the free world? While this freedom caucus manages to throw their support behind the most outspoken candidate, this appears far from resolved.

2. President

The show is dropping significant hints of another run by Conor (Alan Ruck) to become President of the United States; we have to remind ourselves that nothing about this show is ever that simple. Could Conor ultimately be a serious contender for President? Sure, he would ultimately be the puppet that Logan would want living in 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, but what if a different member of the Roy family were to run? What about Logan? Who better to protect his interests than himself? Seeing the old man end up running for President would be the ultimate swerve by Armstrong and the whole writer’s room.

1. Wait for it

Logan’s attitude towards women has a direct impact on his relationship with Shiv. He’s embarrassed her, downplayed her contributions, and flat out lied to her face. What he’s doing is pushing her further and further away. Shiv is approaching her breaking point, and since it wasn’t when Logan got behind Roman’s choice for President, it can’t be that far from occurring. When it does happen, does she end up joining up with Kendall? Could she be the one who ultimately seals her father’s fate?

Photo: Macall B. Polay/HBO