Kendall Roy's Tumultuous Journey in Succession Season Three
Episode Overview
Kendall Roy's mental health journey is symbolised by water. Kendall's manipulative tactics often backfire on him. Hypocrisy is a recurring theme in Kendall's actions. Sibling relationships play a crucial role in Kendall's story. The episode highlights the psychological complexities of narcissistic behaviour.
"He's a water baby, I guess. He’s sent to be drawn to the water, it seems."
If you're a fan of HBO's Succession and love diving deep into character analysis, this episode of SNAP: Survivors of Narcissistic & Abusive Personalities is for you. Mandy Friedman, a licensed professional clinical counsellor, breaks down the intricacies of Kendall Roy's journey in Season Three. Joined by her brother Andrew, Mandy explores Kendall's complex relationship with his family and his struggle for power and identity within the toxic Logan family dynamic.
The episode kicks off with Kendall in an empty bathtub—a fitting metaphor for his mental state. Throughout the season, we see Kendall oscillate between manic highs and crushing lows, trying to rally support against his father, Logan. He recruits 'flying monkeys' to his cause, including his siblings, but his manipulative tactics often backfire. One standout moment involves Kendall's awkward attempt to bond with Greg over a dark joke about murder, showcasing his disconnect from reality.
Mandy and Andrew also highlight Kendall's hypocritical use of feminist rhetoric while simultaneously belittling his sister, Shiv. This contradiction underscores Kendall's deep-seated issues and inability to see the truth about himself. The episode doesn't shy away from the darker aspects of Kendall's personality, including his use of 'word salad' to confuse and manipulate those around him.
As Kendall spirals, he hits rock bottom during a family event, leading to a poignant scene where he confesses his darkest secrets to his siblings. This moment of vulnerability brings the siblings together, setting the stage for a united front against their father in future episodes. Mandy's expert analysis, combined with Andrew's engaging commentary, makes this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the psychological complexities of Succession's characters.
Don't miss out on this deep dive into the mind of Kendall Roy—it's a fascinating exploration of narcissism, manipulation, and the quest for power. Why should you listen? Because understanding these dynamics can offer valuable insights into real-life relationships and help you navigate your own interactions with difficult personalities. Plus, who doesn't love a good character breakdown?