Brian Cox’s Stunning “Succession” Performance in Season 4, Episode 2

THE INTERPRETER | Brian Cox

THE SHOW | Succession

THE EPISODE | “Rehearsal” (April 2, 2023)

THE PERFORMANCE | It can be frustrating to watch the Roy kids try to stand toe to toe with their hulking father Logan Roy, only to get squashed over and over again like so many pesky flies. But Cox’s impressive performance as the patriarch of the Roy family is so richly detailed and compelling that we almost encourage the old man to keep winning. This week, Cox called up tremendous energy when Logan let his family and employees know that this aging lion can still roar, while revealing even the slightest hint of vulnerability. (But just a hint.)

Logan’s ability to intimidate everyone around him was on full display when he passed by the ATN offices unannounced, Cox’s considerable gravity causing everyone to quiver in their boots. Logan then addressed the troops with a fiery speech full of colorful rhetoric, with Cox’s booming voice and keen eyes making it clear that Logan isn’t ready to hang up his spurs just yet. (He urged ATN staff to be more aggressive in reducing competition, bellowing, “You fucking pirates!”). “I’m still here, you know. I did not go. But Logan’s biggest unresolved issues remained with his kids, and he canceled their karaoke outing to tell them how hurt he was that they missed his birthday party, with Cox expressing a wistful smile … well, what passes for a real wound in the world of Logan Roy.

His kids weren’t buying him, though — he also wanted them to sign the GoJo deal — which reminded us of how Logan masterfully manipulates his family to maintain his iron grip on power. (His attempt at an actual apology was pretty dismal, to be fair.) But Cox activated the spell as Logan offered Roman a plum role at ATN, telling his youngest son, “I need you. ” It was overwhelming to see Roman fall under his spell again, but also understandable because Logan can be so convincing when needed. Succession is a grand Shakespearean drama, and it works because Cox gives it the domineering, compelling father figure it needs at its center.

Scroll down to see who scored honorable mentions this week…

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