Dynasty and Dysfunction: Unveiling HBO’s Succession’s Corporate of Thrones - A Critical

Analysis of Power, Influence, and Absurdity of Contemporary Corporate America

A Research Paper Presented to

The Social Sciences and Humanities Department
College of Liberal Arts and Communication
De La Salle University – Dasmariñas

In Partial Fulfillment
of the Requirements in
Bachelor of Arts in International Development

Belarma, Tricia Lyka de Luna

International Development Studies 41

Submitted to
Jumel G. Estrañero
International Political Economy
 I. Introduction

According to the Oxford Languages, succession is a noun which pertains to the action or
process of inheriting a title, position, office, property, etc.. Jesse Armstrong’s award-winning
television show Succession (2018-2023), centers around the fictional and dysfunctional Roy
family and their billion-dollar media conglomerate, Waystar Royco. It starts off with health
concerns regarding the patriarch and CEO, Logan Roy, creating uncertainty among his family
members, specifically his children (Barton, 2022; Hirsch, 2020). Throughout the four seasons,
we see as Logan Roy’s four children jostle to secure their position as the next chief executive of
their empire; compellingly depicting the burden of wealth and greed, the corrupt nature of power
and its dynamics, the manipulation of influence, and the nuanced intricate relationship between
the corporate elite and the political actors of the world (Claffey & Briggs, 2022). HBO’s
Succession weaving an intricate web of power struggles and familial politics doesn’t only serve
as a gripping entertainment but also imparts a thought-provoking lens through which it examines
the parallels between the fictional Roy family’s corporate empire and the political landscape of
contemporary corporate America.

This study will focus on analyzing and dissecting the award winning show’s portrayal of
power dynamics, influence as a weapon of manipulation, politics within families and the
corporate elite, and how this show managed to make a critic of the absurdity of political ploys in
the real world, specifically modern America. The study will draw on the parallels, a mirror
reflecting the complexities, paradoxes, dynamics, and the inherent dysfunctions of the corporate
world, echoing the age-old adage that power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely.

Background of the Study

HBO's award-winning series, Succession, follows the fictional Roy family through a
meandering and frustrating journey through contemporary corporate America. Created by
Jeremy Armstrong in 2018, it stars Brian Cox and Jeremy Strong, to which it was welcomed with
critical acclaim. Its first season alone managed to win several accolades such as the Emmy’s,
BAFTA, and the Golden Globe Award in 2019. Over four seasons, it traces the desperate attempt
of Kendall Roy (Jeremy Strong) and his siblings, Roman Roy (Kieran Culkin), Siobhan ‘Shiv’
Roy (Sarah Snook), and Connor Roy (Alan Ruck), to gain their father’s respect enough to be
deserving of the highest position in their empire. Succession encapsulates a biting family drama
wherein the most poisonous lines didn’t come from business men inside the boardrooms, rather,
between a parent and a child, an exploration of family relations diseased by a neoliberal ideology
which idolizes the ‘competitive man, wholly immersed in global competition […] guided by
self-interest,’ (Barton 2022; Dardot & Laval, 2017).

As the show delves deep into the lives of this fictional family and their media
conglomerate, Waystar Royco, Succession offers a poignant and timely exploration of corporate
America in popular media. The ever-growing fascination with the inner workings and intricacies
of corporate entities has reached new heights in our modern times, as it is driven by the societal
curiosity of knowing who’s behind the forces shaping our economic and political landscapes.
That is exactly what Succession delivers in its satirical and even sometimes, comedic way of
portraying the dramatic flair of the network, providing the people the chance to see through a
lens in which they can scrutinize the power structures that govern the upper stratum of modern
corporations. Succession finds its roots in its ability to capture the essence of dynastic capitalism,
a phenomenon deeply embedded in the veins of the American corporate ethos. By presenting the
Roy family as an image of the power struggles and familial dysfunctionalities within the
corporate world and its elites, HBO’s Succession offers a unique opportunity to dissect the
anatomy of power in a way that resonates with its audiences.

II. Theoretical Framework

Power Dynamics

According to ATLAS.ti, power dynamics refer to the inherent structures and influences of
power that exist between individuals and groups of people within a specific context. However,
this extends beyond just mere authority or control, as more often than not, it involves the
territories of influence, dominance, privilege, and even communication styles. In its simplest
form, power is the ability to influence or control outcomes. The possession of power can come
from a variety of sources such as formal structures, like hierarchies and job titles to less tangible
aspects like knowledge, charisma, and social capital. At its core, power dynamics serves as the
guiding compass in navigating the multifaceted interactions between individuals, organizations,
and the political sphere (Birney, 2021).

In the world of Succession, the characters, particularly Logan Roy and his four children,
all embody different facets of power, putting an emphasis on power dynamics theory’s relational
concept of power. Logan Roy, throughout the show, depicts authoritarian control over Waystar
Royco, often through coercive power dynamic wherein authority is achieved through the use of
fear and control. All the while, the siblings’ influence within the family empire epitomizes the
concept of distributive power, showcasing the negotiation for control within their family
hierarchy. In addition, Logan’s official position as the patriarch and CEO is complemented by
informal power structures, as he holds family ties and personal skills and charisma, the same can
be said to his children.

Looking through the lens of reality, the power dynamics theory provides an
understanding for how corporate power holds implication over global politics. Much like Logan
Roy, real life corporate elites may exert their influence through both formal channels, such as
lobbying and campaign financing, and informal channels, like media ownership and narrative
control. This theory helps dig through the complexities of how power is not confined to the four
corners of organizations but rather through various channels, which influence decision-making
and shape narratives.

The theory provides a theoretical framework to analyze the ebb and flow of power within
Succession and how it mirrors real-world instances, offering an insight into the nuanced world of
corporate hierarchies and familial relationships and influence.
III. Analysis

Succession in Real Life: Murdoch Family, The Media Moguls

Succession is all but overtly inspired by the Murdoch family, whose multi-continental
media empire played a crucial role in making former US President Donald Trump’s presidency
possible (Klion, 2019). Its subtle yet undeniable connection to the real-world Murdoch media
moguls, who have wielded significant influence over the global media landscapes for decades
makes this award-winning drama series even more particularly fascinating. Although the creator
of Succession, Jesse Armstrong, has maintained that the show is a work of fiction, the echoes of
the Murdoch family’s saga are unmistakable. Logan Roy’s media empire, Waystar Royco, akin to
Murdoch’s News Corporation, spans a vast array of media outlets, providing a parallel to the real
world conglomerate’s far reaching influence. Even the show’s exploration of succession planning
and power struggles within the family dynasty mirrors that of the tumultuous transitions and
internal strife that the Murdoch family faced as Rupert Murdoch, the patriarch, long avoided
naming one of his children as his successor; deferring an announcement that might create more
friction within his family (Mahler & Rutenberg, 2019).

Just like in the HBO show, the patriarch Rupert Murdoch has four children, the oldest son
from his first wife, who had grown up away from their empire, and the rest of the three children
from his second wife, molded and shaped after him and their business; Succession completely
mirroring this with Connor, Kendall, Roman, and Shiv. Ruperth Murdoch is the head of a
sprawling global media empire, commanding multiple television networks, global news service,
a major publishing house, and a Hollywood movie studio, pretty much just like his fictional
counterpart, Logan Roy (Mahler & Rutenberg, 2019). His newspapers and television networks
had been instrumental in amplifying the nativist revolt that was reshaping governments not just
in the United States but also across the globe (Mahler & Rutenberg, 2019). Murdoch’s 24-hour
news-and-opinion network, the Fox News Channel, had by then fused with President Trump and
his base of hard-core supporters, giving Murdoch an unparalleled degree of influence over the
world’s most powerful democracy. This was also mirrored in the show as ATN, Logan Roy’s
far-right news network, had spread a successful propaganda that propelled the fascist presidential
candidate Jeryd Mencken to secure his presidency.

Examining the intertwined narratives between the Roy family and Murdoch family, we
are compelled to contemplate the fine thread between art and reality, as Succession weaves a
story that taps into the collective consciousness of a media-saturated society, provoking
contemplation on the nature of power, legacy, and the human drama inherent in the pursuit of
dominance in the political landscape.

Contemporary Corporate America: How Much Does the Fictional World Differ
from the Real One?

The 2018 HBO show unveils the compelling tale of how corporate elites navigate the
corridors of power, not only influencing the state of media but weaving the very fabric of global
affairs. It becomes evident that these fictional and real dynasties are not merely reflections of
each other, but rather, mirrors reflecting the profound reality of how corporate elites and media
moguls exert influence on a global scale. The Murdoch family serves as a tangible example of
the interconnectedness of media, politics, and power. Jesse Armstrong’s Succession, having
drawn inspiration from real world events, underscores the subtle dance between interests of that
from the corporate world and people who wish to maneuver politics; framing how media
conglomerates become pivotal players in shaping public opinion and steering the currents of
global politics.

Unveiling the intricate web of connectedness within Succession, the viewers are
compelled to confront the stark truth that these fictional power struggles are not just confined
within the realm of entertainment. They resonate with the very essence of just how much these
corporate elites, through their media empires, can effectively shape public perception and
influence political decisions, however they want– a form of soft power that extends far beyond
their boardroom negotiations and closing deals. The show’s portrayal of the Roy family’s
influence within the world of media serves as a harsh reminder that, in the real world, few elites
often stand as puppet masters pulling the strings that define the geopolitical weather.

The succession planning shown in the series even echoes the real-world complexities
within corporate dynasties. The Murdochs’ struggle in passing the torch and maintaining control
over their family empire represents the struggles faced by numerous corporate elites seeking to
secure their family’s legacies. This struggle, of simply being human with human emotion causes
human drama, juxtaposed against the cold backdrop of immense corporate power, sheds light on
the unpredictability and fragility of dynastic capitalism; even the most formidable of empires are
subject to the vulnerabilities inherent in the human condition.

In this amalgamation of fiction and reality, Succession prompts its audiences to question
the extent to which corporate elites wield influence over global power, the parallels between the
Roys and the Murdochs serves as a controversial commentary on the pervasive influence that
these group of people have over the actors of global political landscape. From having drawn
inspiration from real life media moguls, it acts as a compelling narrative that transcends the
screens, beckoning people to critically examine the intricate relationship of media, politics, and
corporate interests.

Power Dynamics, Manipulation of Influence, and Political Ploys

The main cast ensemble consisting of Logan Roy and his four children namely, Connor,
Kendall, Roman, and Shiv, epitomize the multifaceted nature of power struggles in the show. The
kaleidoscope of power dynamics in Succession embodies a complex interplay of ambition,
manipulation, and political maneuvering. The patriarch Logan Roy, having been a self-made
billionaire, is shown with commanding presence with his cutthroat tactics, painting the image of
a corporate titan who understands the brutal art of leveraging influence. His oldest son, Kendall
Roy, from his second wife Caroline, is depicted often with his internal struggle of attempting to
break free from his father’s iron grip and his all-consuming shadow; showing the delicate
contrast between personal agency and familial expectations. Kendall personifies the complexity
of navigating loyalty, ambition, and moral dilemma as he grapples with the consequences of
challenging his father’s authority. Roman, although often shed with a tinge of comedic timing
and dark humor, is the personification of a dog constantly wagging its tail waiting for its owner’s
approval– Roman isn’t just hungry for the position of chief executive, but he starves for the
littlest of love and attention from the corporate head, his own father. Shiv’s strategic intelligence
and ambition illustrate the gendered dimensions of power dynamics, often left out as being the
only daughter of Logan, she struggles to keep up with every man in the show as they seemingly
deem her as a weaker and less fierce version of her own brothers. Connor, as the eldest son, from
Logan’s first wife, is shown to be distant from the rest, even from the family’s empire, persistent
in navigating his own world as he tries to win over his father’s only approval– to be finally seen.

From the perspective of the fictional confines of Succession, this family and their drama
parallels the delicate dance of power on the global stage. The power play within the
dysfunctional Roy family is filled with forming alliances, backstabbing, and strategic moves; it
does not stray far away from the political maneuvering that occurs in real-world power. The
show masterfully illustrates how the characters employ every tool at their disposal to secure their
positions and agendas, whether personal or purely business. Thick tension formed between
personal relationships and corporate ambitions exemplified by the Roy siblings reveals the
human dimension of power dynamics; even the most calculated decisions are often underpinned
by deeply personal motivations.

This deep-rooted connection isn’t only shown through the plot but also through the
character’s action and reaction, the Roys all play this game of cat and mice wherein they chase
after true power, often through brutal ways of stepping and trampling on each other, but
ultimately always ending up as a loser; struggling to go up against their power-tripping,
manipulative, abusive (mentally and physically), gaslighter, and bully of a father, Logan Roy.
Succession manages to explore the topic of media manipulation, resonation with wider
discussions surrounding the impact of media on political discourse. In the show, the Roys control
the narratives, shape the public’s perceptions, and influence electoral outcomes, shedding light
on the possibility of media conglomerates to act as kingmakers in the political arena. The
symbiotic relationship between corporate power, media influence, and political machinations is
vividly depicted in the drama series. In the end, Succession invites its viewers to scrutinize the
fine line between fiction and factual, urging people to confront the uncomfortable truths of
power, influence, and political ploys entwined in both their TV screens and actual global politics.

IV. Policy recommendations

The following policy recommendations aim to address the interconnectedness of

corporate power, media influence, and global political power, drawing inspiration from the
thematic underlinings of the HBO TV show, Succession. By implementing these measures,
policymakers can work through fostering a more transparent, accountable, and ethically
grounded environment in shaping media and political landscapes.

A. Media Ownership Regulations

Policymakers should reevaluate and strengthen regulations pertaining to media

ownership, in light of the potent influence that media conglomerates wield over public opinion
and political narratives. Implementing stricter and stronger guidelines to prevent excessive
concentration of media power in the hands of few corporate elites can safeguard a fair and safe
democratic discourse. By fostering a more diverse and competitive media landscape, we can
mitigate the risk of undue influence on public opinion and political decision-making.

B. Transparency and Accountability in Corporate Governance

Policymakers should prioritize strengthening transparency and accountability measures

for large corporations and media moguls. A robust disclosure regarding succession plans and
corporate decision-making processes can provide the shareholders and the general public a
clearer understanding of the internal dynamics that may impact business operations and
ultimately, the masses. This transparency notion can contribute to building public trust and
ensures that corporate power is regulated responsibly and properly

C. Ethical Guidelines for Media Influence on Politics

Addressing the potential manipulation of influence portrayed in Succession and even in

real life, policymakers should enforce ethical guidelines for large media outlets. These guidelines
should entail the boundaries to prevent media conglomerates from spreading fake news, and
feeding propagandas. With clear standards for unbiased and just reporting, fact-checking, and
honesty can strengthen the integrity of political discourse and protect the public from
orchestrated narratives that serve only a specific group of people and their interests.

V. Acknowledgement

I would like to dedicate this part to the people who’ve made my college journey bearable
and less lonely. To Maria, Juliana, Hanns, Ate Kayla, Grace, and Rise, thank you so much for
sticking through with me, although we all initially met online because of the way things were
set-up back then, I am truthfully grateful that I had the chance to meet you and get to know you
in real life. I don’t think I would’ve survived this long without you guys by my side. Thank you
for making me uncontrollably laugh, comfortable in my own skin and in my own thoughts, and
for always making sure that I am doing well and good in this endless loop of suffering called
college. I cannot wait to see what the future has in store for us, I hope that we all get the rest we
all deserve, I think we’ve taken enough beating, to be honest, it’s time we enjoy ourselves. Thank
you for shaping who I am today, I learned a lot from you and I hope to continue growing and
learning with all of you.
To my longtime best friends, people who have known me since time immemorial, Paul,
Eric, and Ann-drheya, thank you so much. Thank you for always listening to my rants, whether
it’s about college or anything under the sun. Thank you for always making me laugh to the point
where I cannot breathe and my vision starts to blur, that’s how I know that it was a good laugh. I
don’t know what I would do without your immense support and belief in whatever I achieve, I
couldn’t thank you guys enough for all the things you’ve done. I am so proud that we’ve come
this far, and I cannot believe that we’ve grown so much together. Thank you for sticking with me
even though I’ve gone through hundreds of transformations, physically, mentally, and
emotionally. Sometimes, when I think too much about how college is beating me up, I think
about all the times we’ve done basically almost everything together in high school, from eating
lunch, doing groupworks, or even just gossiping; I think about times spent with you and
suddenly, the world isn’t as rough as it seems. Thank you, salamat, I love you, mahal ko kayo,
my forever friends – always with me, wherever I go.

VI. References

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Claffey, P., Briggs, R. Logan Roy in Succession embodies the many complexities and
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Hirsch, K. (2020). A Study on Power Relations in Succession: A Conversation Analysis

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