Reasons Why Tom Wamsgans Becomes CEO in the Finale of Succession

The Surprising Twist of Succession: Tom Wambsgans as the New CEO

Throughout the four gripping seasons of HBO’s acclaimed series Succession, viewers have continually speculated about which of Logan Roy’s children will inherit the family empire. However, the show’s final season delivered a shocking revelation: Tom Wambsgans ascended to the role of CEO after a rival media entity acquired Waystar Royco, deftly turning audience assumptions on their head. This unexpected twist showcased how the series played with expectations, although hints had been laid down from earlier episodes.

Tom Wambsgans emerged as an intriguing character whose potential for leadership went largely unnoticed among fans. Initially portrayed as both a source of embarrassment and a source of comfort for Logan Roy and his progeny, Tom’s outsider status often made him seem unworthy of power. Yet, as the final season progressed, it became evident that circumstances developed Tom into an unexpected contender for victory, while Logan’s children remained oblivious to his true potential.

Tom: The Puppet CEO Lukas Matsson Needed

Matsson Required an American CEO, and Tom Delivered

From a storytelling standpoint, the producers made a strategic move by selecting Tom Wambsgans as Waystar Royco’s new CEO. Lukas Matsson sought an American figurehead to satisfy the existing board, viewing Tom as an easily moldable leader. Meanwhile, Shiv’s covert collaboration with Matsson aimed to secure her own position as CEO, showcasing her drive but ultimately blinding her to Tom’s suitability for the role.

Ironically, it was Shiv who inadvertently convinced Matsson of Tom’s potential, branding him a non-threatening pushover. This perceived weakness was precisely what Matsson desired, as he recognized Shiv’s ambitious nature as a threat. Thus, Tom’s ascension to CEO marked a significant fall in Shiv’s standing, culminating in the deterioration of their already fragile relationship.

Kendall’s Defeat Led to GoJo’s Purchase of Waystar

Shiv Intervened to Thwart Kendall’s Ambitions

The series finale presented the Roy siblings with a final opportunity to prevent Tom from claiming the CEO position. If Kendall, Shiv, and Roman unified their efforts, they stood a chance of overriding Matsson’s acquisition and naming Kendall as CEO. This strategy was formulated during a family reunion in Barbados, where it seemed the trio might finally overcome their disputes.

However, Shiv opted to vote for Matsson’s GoJo deal, ultimately supporting Tom’s emergence as CEO. The thought of Kendall taking over was repugnant to her. In her mind, aligning with Tom kept her woven into the corporate fabric—perhaps as Tom’s influential partner, rather than risk the uncertainty that would come from obstructing the deal.

The Roy Siblings Failed to Secure Leadership

The Roy Siblings Lack Seriousness

In retrospect, it was clear that none of the Roy siblings were fit to take on the role of CEO at the series’ conclusion. The show painted them consistently as self-serving, incompetent, and ruthless individuals—traits that diminished any expectation of them being handed control. Logan’s poignant remark just before his demise encapsulated this reality: his children are “not serious people.”

By the series’ end, the lack of trust among the siblings rendered it nearly impossible to present a united front. Shiv’s history of betrayal at the hands of her brothers and their collective inability to cooperate positioned them poorly for leadership. Even Shiv, despite moments of insight, struggled to recognize her personal limitations and the fractures in family dynamics.

The Real Reason Tom Became CEO

The Message About Real-World Dynamics

In contrast, Tom exhibited a seriousness and strategic mindset that made him appealing to Matsson. His adept understanding of corporate dynamics and willingness to navigate ethical dilemmas for the sake of career advancement set him apart. His betrayal of Shiv at the conclusion of Season 3 served as a telling indication of his capacity to prioritize ambition over integrity.

Tom embodies a type of character that resonates deeply with the series. As a quieter, more calculating individual who operates from behind the scenes, he is willing to suppress his principles in pursuit of financial gain. This character arc is reflective of larger themes within Succession, particularly its commentary on the dangers posed by media monopolies and the erosion of ethical standards, as emphasized in pivotal episodes like “America Decides.”

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