'Succession' Season 4, Episode 3 Recap: A masterclass in power dynamics

'Succession' Season 4, Episode 3 Recap: The Art of War

The third episode of ‘Succession’ Season 4 was a masterclass in power dynamics, as the Roy family faced off against their rivals in a tense art auction. Here are some of the highlights and lowlights of the episode.

Logan vs. Sandy and Stewy

Logan Roy (Brian Cox) is determined to win back his company from Sandy Furness (Larry Pine) and Stewy Hosseini (Arian Moayed), who have teamed up with a mysterious third party to launch a hostile takeover. Logan decides to outbid them for a rare painting by Mark Rothko, hoping to impress the shareholders and intimidate his enemies. However, his plan backfires when Sandy and Stewy reveal that they were behind the inflated bids, and that they have secured the support of the Rothko estate. Logan is left humiliated and furious, while Sandy and Stewy celebrate their victory.

Kendall vs. Roman

Kendall Roy (Jeremy Strong) is still trying to prove himself as a worthy successor to his father, but he faces opposition from his brother Roman (Kieran Culkin), who is now Logan’s right-hand man. Kendall tries to sabotage Roman’s deal with a Saudi prince, who is interested in investing in Waystar Royco’s streaming service. Kendall leaks a story to the press about the prince’s human rights violations, hoping to scare him off. However, Roman manages to salvage the deal by offering the prince a stake in Waystar’s theme parks, which are more profitable and less controversial. Kendall is frustrated by Roman’s success, while Roman mocks Kendall’s failed attempt.

Shiv vs. Tom

Shiv Roy (Sarah Snook) is struggling to balance her role as Logan’s advisor and her marriage to Tom Wambsgans (Matthew Macfadyen), who is facing a possible prison sentence for his involvement in the cruise scandal. Shiv tries to reassure Tom that he will be fine, but she also secretly looks for ways to protect herself in case he goes down. She asks her father to give her a bigger role in the company, and she flirts with a handsome journalist who is covering the art auction. Tom senses that Shiv is pulling away from him, and he confronts her about their relationship. Shiv admits that she loves him, but she also says that she needs more freedom and excitement in her life. Tom is hurt and confused by Shiv’s mixed signals.

Connor vs. Himself

Connor Roy (Alan Ruck) is the only Roy sibling who is not involved in the family business, but he has his own ambitions: he wants to run for president. He hires a political consultant to help him craft his image and message, but he soon realizes that he has no clue what he stands for or what he wants to achieve. He also faces ridicule from his family and the media, who see him as a joke and a liability. Connor tries to impress his girlfriend Willa (Justine Lupe) with his presidential aspirations, but she is more interested in her career as a playwright. Connor is left feeling lost and lonely.

‘Succession’ Season 4, Episode 3 was another brilliant installment of the Emmy-winning drama series, which showcases the dark humor and sharp dialogue that make it so addictive. The episode also explored the themes of loyalty, betrayal, and identity that define the Roy family saga. The show continues to deliver on its promise of being one of the best TV shows of our time.