Understanding the Eagan Family Tree in Severance

Severance has made an indelible mark in the realm of sci-fi television, captivating audiences with its unique narrative style and thought-provoking themes. The anticipation surrounding the second season continues to build, as early previews are met with high praise. The series delves into the lives of employees at Lumon Industries, who undergo a controversial procedure that “severs”their memories, creating dual identities for their professional and personal lives. Season one followed protagonist Mark as he began to unveil the dark secrets lurking within the company, which dates back to the 19th century, founded by the enigmatic Kier Eagan.

The Eagan family is integral to the story of Severance, despite most of its members being deceased during the show’s timeline. In the third episode of the first season, Mark and colleagues explore Lumon’s Perpetuity Wing, where they encounter lifelike wax figures of the company’s former CEOs—each a descendant of Kier Eagan. These figures symbolize the family’s influence and the corporation’s deep-rooted values. Season two promises to further explore the legacies of the Eagans, shedding light on their role in shaping Lumon’s corporate culture.

Kier Eagan

Founder and First CEO of Lumon Industries

Kier Eagan is the most frequently referenced family member, identified as Lumon’s inaugural CEO and the visionary behind its inception. He is almost idolized by staff, celebrated for his intelligence and foresight, and his presence remains alive through countless statues and artworks displayed across the Lumon facility.

Theories circulating among fans suggest that Kier Eagan’s character carries hidden complexities yet to be fully unraveled. His tenure spanned an impressive 74 years, marking him as one of the most long-standing leaders in corporate history.

Imogene Eagan

Wife of Kier Eagan

Imogene Eagan finds her way into the story of Severance through brief mentions in the first season. She was Kier Eagan’s wife, having met him in their younger days at an ether factory, where they initially collaborated before falling in love. This backstory is particularly ironic, as Lumon strictly forbids workplace romances.

The Lumon employee handbook venerates their partnership, claiming that they were “bonded by the spirit of industry” during the formative years of the company. While she never ascended to the role of CEO, Imogene is celebrated as a pivotal figure in the foundation of Lumon’s identity.

Ambrose Eagan

Second CEO of Lumon Industries

As Kier Eagan’s eldest child, Ambrose Eagan was primed to inherit the CEO title, despite remaining overshadowed by his father’s legacy. His brief two-year stint as CEO raises questions regarding his standing within the family and the corporate hierarchy.

Ambrose’s character has sparked speculation about potential story revelations in season two. He is described as having deeply admired his father, yet he developed an unsavory reputation within the Eagan clan.

Myrtle Eagan

Third CEO of Lumon Industries

Wall of smiles in Severance's Lumon Legacy of Joy exhibit

Myrtle Eagan, the second-born of Kier Eagan, was known for her ambition and desire to lead. Although she did not assume the CEO role before her brother Ambrose, her yearning to head the company was evident. In the third episode, Irving mentions that she had always felt destined to take charge.

Myrtle’s legacy continued in 1952 when she founded the Myrtle Eagan School for Girls—a nod to her influence within Lumon and the community. As the first female CEO of the company, her achievements are marked by distinct recognition, contrasting her vibrant presence with her family’s typically muted color palette.

Eagan Baird

Fourth CEO of Lumon Industries

Ms Cobel sits in a conference room alone at Lumon at night in Severance season 2

Baird Eagan succeeded Myrtle as CEO, although their familial connection is not clearly delineated. Given the lineage of previous leaders, it is likely that Baird was Myrtle’s son. He presided over the company until his death at 74, during which time he maintained a respectable reputation among his peers.

It is suggested that his success was notable, as demonstrated by the Lumon housing community named after him—indicative of his legacy within the corporation.

Gerhardt Eagan

Fifth CEO of Lumon Industries

Gerhardt Eagan, the fifth CEO of Lumon, remains an uncharted figure within the series, known primarily for his familial ties to Kier Eagan. He likely holds influence as either a son or brother to Baird, with his wax statue reflecting an elder man characterized by thick gray hair and a beard.

Phillip Eagan

Sixth CEO of Lumon Industries

Dylan holding two switches in place in Severance

Following Gerhardt, Phillip Eagan took over as CEO, potentially a direct descendant. His reign lasted until his untimely death in 1999, during which he was affectionately referred to as “Pip.” It is widely believed he inspired the name of Pips’ Bar and Grille, a significant venue in the town of Kier, linking the company’s legacy to the community’s foundation.

Leonora Eagan

Seventh CEO of Lumon Industries

Britt Lower undergoing surgery as Helly in Severance season 1

Leonora Eagan, the second woman to serve as CEO, held office until her resignation in 2003, passing away shortly after at the age of 48. Her legacy is memorialized through the Lumon housing project named Leonora Lake, which symbolizes her impact on both the corporation and the community.

Jame Eagan

Eighth and Current CEO of Lumon Industries

A closeup of James Eagan's face in Severance.

As of the first season of Severance, Jame Eagan stands out as the current CEO and one of the few Eagans depicted onscreen. His lineage traces directly back to Kier, although the precise generational distance is left ambiguous. In the season finale, viewers get a glimpse of Jame, revealing him as the father of Helly R., intertwining the family saga with the storyline.

Helena Eagan

Daughter of CEO Jame Eagan

Helly stares out a window in Severance season 2

Helena Eagan, alternatively known as Helly, is pivotal to the narrative as the daughter of Jame Eagan and the first member of the Eagan lineage to undergo the severance procedure. Working within Lumon’s “Macro Data Refinement” unit, Helly’s journey throughout the first season centers on her attempts to escape the confines of the severance system. Her discovery of her true identity by the series’ conclusion forces her to confront her involvement and complicity in Lumon’s ethically ambiguous operations.

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