Succession's Sarah Snook Initially Feared Becoming Just A Prop In The Show

HBO's "Succession" feels like one of those shows any actor would die to be a part of. It's a deliciously satirical work of art taking down the elite of the elite, earning a score of awards in the process. However, Sarah Snook, who plays daughter Shiv Roy on the series, wasn't initially sold on the idea. 

Her apprehension didn't have anything to do with the quality of the show, which she could tell was immense just from reading the pilot. But she didn't exactly know how Shiv would fit in with the rest of the series, seeing how she's a woman in a show heavily dominated by men. When speaking to The Los Angeles Times, she explained the quandary she faced: "Do I want to be a prop in this story that doesn't focus on me at all?" She went on to explain, "I read the pilot and went, 'I want to watch this, but I don't know if I want to be in it.'" As it turns out, Snook went from being cautious to approaching the part to really feeling let down when she found out the series was ending. 

Shiv Roy may be the only daughter of Logan (Brian Cox), but she's proved over the seasons she has what it takes to run with the big boys. While she originally had political aspirations, she drew her attention closer and closer to Waystar as the years have gone on, attempting to secure a position at the top of the food chain if Logan ever decides to step aside. 

Part of watching this thrilling character arc comes down to Sarah Snook's performance, who brings a dignified determination to the role of Shiv. It's only fitting that while she was hesitant to take the part initially, her feelings have changed completely now that the show is coming to an end. Apparently, the news that Season 4 would be the last for "Succession" took her by surprise as much as fans. She told The L.A. Times, "I felt a huge sense of loss, disappointment and sadness. It would have been nice to know at the beginning of the season, but I also understand not being told until the end because there was still a potential that maybe this wasn't going to be the end."

Ultimately, she feels as though this is a good point to end the series so that it doesn't overstay its welcome and decline in quality. "Succession" Season 4 premieres on HBO on March 26.