HBO’s Succession presents a fascinating contrast between two families — The Roys and The Pierces — who represent two distinct worlds of wealth and privilege.

The Roys, who have built their vast business empire through their own hard work, determination, technology, and media, are the embodiment of the American dream of self-made success… often referred to as “new money."

The Pierces, on the other hand, represent the traditional aristocracy of America, or “old money” with their wealth and power inherited over generations and a distinct sense of “noblesse oblige” to deploy their riches for the good of the downtrodden.

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Top 5 OLD MONEY Communities in the NORTHEAST:    • Top 5 OLD MONEY Communities in the NO...  

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TIMESTAMPS:

0:00 Introduction
1:21 1. The Roys Are Not “Old Money”
8:11 2. Logan’s “New Money” Faith In The Self-Made Man
11:12 3. The Pierces Are “Old Money”
14:30 4. Pierces vs. Roys: Old Money vs. New Money

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The Roys of New York City are a prime example of new money, with their ostentatious displays of wealth, constant bragging, and (especially as it relates to the kids), their inability to talk about anything else.

These behaviors stand in stark contrast to those of old money families, who have a generations-long tradition of discretion regarding sex, money, and politics. A simple way of understanding it could be:

“New money screams, old money whispers”

Logan Roy, the patriarch of the family, is a self-made man who has amassed a massive fortune, but he is not without his insecurities.

He is acutely aware of his status as "new money" and carries a significant chip on his shoulder as a result.

His marriage to Catherine, a member of the British aristocracy, is a clear indication of his desire to elevate his family’s standing in society.

Despite this fact, Logan is deeply critical of the old castes of Europe, the exploitation of the poor by the wealthy class, and even the fat titans of media that he destroyed when he was young.

His contempt for the old guard is palpable, and his desire to forge a new path for himself and his family is evident in everything he does.

The younger generation of clan Roy takes up this model and goes to the extremes of new money culture in their behaviors.

Since Logan raised them and their English aristocratic mother didn't pay much attention to them, they represent a new kind of wealth that is marked by excess and a lack of sophistication.

Kendall Roy, the on-and-off heir apparent to the Roy Empire, is first shown (and then many times after throughout the show) in a manner that speaks to his unrefined nature.

His obsession with rap music and unrefined rhyming is a clear departure from the more sophisticated musical preferences of the old money elite.

This serves as a reminder of the fundamental differences between old money and new money, and how they are reflected in even the most seemingly insignificant details of one’s behavior and lifestyle.

Furthermore, Kendall’s social skills are often lacking, as he struggles to connect with others on a personal level and often comes across as awkward or uncomfortable in social situations.

This lack of refinement is another hallmark of new money, as those who have inherited their wealth and status often receive extensive training in etiquette and social graces from an early age.

Lastly, both Kendall is prone to making impulsive and rash decisions, such as his ill-fated attempt to take over the company from his father in the first season.

This lack of patience and foresight is often associated with those who have suddenly acquired their wealth and power, rather than those who have inherited it over generations. This is a trait that is consistently exemplified by Shiv, Connor, and Roman as well.

Indeed, Logan’s other son, Roman, is an example of the shallow and indulgent lifestyle that is often associated with new money.

His hedonistic and impulsive lifestyle is characterized by a lack of concern for basic societal norms and a preference for base pleasures.

For instance, Roman’s casual and flippant approach to sex is indicative of his unrefined nature. His preference for older women and lack of discretion is a stark contrast to the old money elite, who place a high value on propriety and decorum.

Furthermore, Roman’s ignorance of basic household items, like a gallon of milk, is yet another indication of his unrefined and privileged background.

Those who have inherited their wealth and status over generations are often more attuned to the value of money and the practicalities of everyday life, while new money individuals like Roman are insulated from such concerns.