Why did Matsson betray Shiv in the “Succession” finale?
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The nail-biting Season 4 finale of HBO's Succession left viewers on the edge of their seats as the Roy siblings fiercely battled for control of Waystar RoyCo. Amidst the turmoil of the GoJo deal, the episode titled "With Open Eyes" unveiled a surprising twist—the appointment of Tom Wambsgans as the CEO of Waystar RoyCo. This unexpected turn of events raised questions about Lukas Matsson's intentions and why he preferred Tom over Shiv. In this article, we delve into various theories and examine the evidence surrounding Matsson's decision, providing insights into the gripping finale that left fans pondering the fate of their favorite characters.
Theory 1: Matsson's Desire for a Controllable CEO
One theory that emerges is Matsson's inclination toward having a CEO who is easily influenced and controlled. This theory gains traction based on the revelation made by Matsson himself to Tom Wambsgans. Matsson explicitly expresses his disinterest in Shiv assuming the CEO role, implying that he may perceive her as a more independent and potentially challenging figure to manipulate. Furthermore, Tom's apparent compliance with Matsson's preferences, as evidenced by his willingness to be the "front man" in the upcoming bloodbath, supports the notion that Matsson seeks a CEO who can be easily swayed.
However, it is important to consider the evidence against this theory. Firstly, the true motives behind Matsson's desire for Tom as CEO are not explicitly disclosed in the finale, leaving room for alternative interpretations. Secondly, Shiv's persistent efforts to cozy up to Matsson and win his favor indicate her own hunger for power and control, suggesting that she could be just as pliable as Tom. Lastly, Matsson's selection of Tom might be part of a larger strategic plan that remains concealed, making it difficult to ascertain the full extent of his motivations.
As the plot thickens, audiences are left to piece together the puzzle of Matsson's intentions, taking into account the various intricacies and dynamics at play within the Succession universe.
Theory 2: Shiv's Emotional Instability and Inconsistency
Another theory that emerges centers around Shiv's emotional instability and inconsistency as a driving force behind her betrayal of Kendall. The evidence supporting this theory lies in Shiv's emotional reaction when she discovers that Matsson intended to make Tom the CEO without her knowledge. The pressure and weight of the decision to choose the CEO position overwhelmed Shiv, leading her to falter and ultimately betray her alliance with Kendall. Throughout the series, Shiv has displayed a history of vacillating between her loyalty to her family and her personal ambition, making it plausible that her emotional turmoil played a significant role in her decision-making.
Nevertheless, it is important to consider the evidence against this theory. Shiv's initial plan to manipulate Matsson and position herself as the puppet CEO indicates calculated ambition rather than mere emotional instability. Additionally, her hesitation to vote for Kendall despite his heartfelt plea and their previous alliance suggests deeper motivations at play. It is likely that Shiv's actions were driven by a combination of personal aspirations, power dynamics, and strategic considerations rather than solely her emotional state.
