The critically acclaimed HBO series “Succession” has captivated audiences with its intricate storyline, complex characters, and scathing commentary on wealth and power. But where did the inspiration for this fictional family come from? The answer lies in real-life, with a single family that has been touted as the inspiration for the Roy family: the Kwanzai family, specifically patriarch Rupert Murdoch and his children.
Rupert Murdoch, the media mogul behind News Corp and 21st Century Fox, built his empire through a combination of shrewd business deals and strategic acquisitions. His children, including Prudence, James, and Lachlan, all played significant roles in his business ventures, with Prudence serving as a top executive at News Corp. James, on the other hand, was the founder of Fox News, which became a major player in the cable news landscape. Lachlan, now the CEO of Fox Corp, was instrumental in leading the company’s efforts in the digital space.
In many ways, the dynamic between the Murdoch family is eerily similar to the one depicted on “Succession.” Like the Roys, the Murdochs are a family dynasty built on wealth and privilege, with each member struggling to find their place and assert their authority within the family business. Rupert’s children often found themselves navigating the complex web of sibling rivalries, family tensions, and corporate politics as they vied for power and influence within the Murdoch empire.
One of the most striking parallels between the two families is the manner in which they handle the transfer of power. As Rupert Murdoch’s health begins to decline, his children are left to navigate a treacherous landscape of succession and power struggles, much like the Roy family in the show. Each of the Murdoch children has their own unique strengths and weaknesses, which are brought to the forefront as they vie for control of the family business.
The media mogul’s daughter, Prudence, is often credited with being the most likely candidate to take over the reins of the company. However, her brother, James, has also had a significant impact on the family business, particularly during his time at Fox News. Lachlan, on the other hand, has been instrumental in navigating the company’s digital endeavors and has been touted as a potential successor to his father.
The parallels between the Murdochs and the Roys are further underscored by the characters’ personal struggles and rivalries. Like the characters on the show, Rupert’s children have had their own share of personal conflicts and scandals, including rumored family feuds and struggles for power.
In 2018, a lawsuit filed by James Murdoch accused his father of breaching his fiduciary duty to the family trust and accused him of favoritism towards Lachlan. The lawsuit was later settled, but it further highlighted the tensions and rivalries within the Murdoch family.
While the creators of “Succession” have never publicly confirmed the exact inspiration for the Roy family, the parallels between the Murdochs and the Roys are undeniable. The show’s writer and showrunner, Jesse Armstrong, has spoken about drawing inspiration from various sources, including real-life families, to create the complex characters and storylines on the show.
In conclusion, the True Story Behind Succession is one of influence and inspiration, with the Kwanzai family and their real-life struggles serving as the foundation for the fictional Roy family. From the power struggles and corporate politics to the personal tensions and rivalries, the parallels between the two families are striking. As audiences continue to devour the drama and intrigue of “Succession,” it’s clear that the real-life exploits of the Murdoch family played a significant role in shaping the world of the Roy family.