Succession 4 Episode 3 writers had a superb way to keep the plot twist secret
The latest episode of Succession, "Connor's Wedding," has left fans in utter shock following the unexpectedly premature departure of a character. This monumental plot twist was kept under wraps by the show's writers for over a year, and they had to take extreme measures to prevent spoilers.
For those of you who haven’t had the chance to watch the latest episode yet and have somehow evaded any spoilers, this is your SPOILER WARNING
Georgia Pritchett, one of the writers, took to Twitter to reveal that the code name for "Logan Dies" was simply "Larry David." This code name was used on whiteboards in the writers' room to prevent the actual plot from being leaked.
This was a tough secret to keep! We decided it in the #Succession writers' room in Jan 22. So nobody found out we used code on the whiteboards. Larry David meant Logan Dies. So episode 403 said Connor's Wedding, Larry David. Mind you, that would also have been a great episode. pic.twitter.com/VH1HuHCFOC
— Georgia Pritchett (@georgiapudding) April 11, 2023
Given the eponymous real actor Larry David’s turbulent history with funerals in his long-running sitcom Curb Your Enthusiasm, it’s a miracle that no one put two and two together, despite the secret codes.
I want the Curb Your Enthusiasm theme played at my funeral. pic.twitter.com/xZP35lFXBL
— Sиappp. ⎊ (@Snappp_FMS) January 15, 2022
But this was not the only trick used by the producers to keep the twist a secret. Director Mark Mylod revealed that they filmed dummy scenes with Brian Cox, the actor who played Logan Roy, for later episodes. Cox even turned up to his own funeral when he wasn't required, fooling paparazzi and preventing any leaks.
The use of these elaborate methods paid off, as the episode was a huge success with both viewers and critics alike. The show has seen a record number of viewers since its premiere this weekend.
I think we all need a moment to grasp what really just happened,but it goes without saying that Logan Roy will be dearly missed. The show will not be the same without him. Big shout out to Brian cox for giving us an unforgettable character in an all time performance. #Succession pic.twitter.com/Mq4Yn0CZ5o
— loose juice (@greenlife497) April 10, 2023
This monumental plot twist is sure to go down in TV history, and the efforts made by the Succession team to keep it under wraps are a testament to their dedication to storytelling. The use of a code name, dummy scenes, and even a fake funeral shows the lengths to which TV producers will go to keep their audiences engaged and invested.
Succession has set a new standard for TV dramas, and the anticipation for the rest of the season is at an all-time high. Fans will be eagerly waiting to see what other surprises the show's writers have in store.