For devoted fans of HBO’s “Succession,” it can offer some solace to know that the talented individuals behind the show are also experiencing the aftermath of its conclusion. A group of the show’s New York-based cast members gathered at a bar on Sunday night to watch the remarkable series finale together. Juliana Canfield, who portrayed Jess Jordan, Kendall Roy’s steadfast assistant, expressed her emotions in an interview on Tuesday. She described the profound impact of seeing her friends on screen and then being able to glance over and find them sitting beside her. The experience was moving and led her to confess that she may need to watch the episode again. She explained how the room was captivated by the drama of the episode, and she was delighted by her proximity to the actors who played characters she had grown to love. She admitted to shedding a few tears, although not as many as usual, considering her propensity for crying.
The cast members and writers of “Succession” remain connected through active group chats, according to Canfield. She identified J. Smith-Cameron, Alan Ruck, and Dagmara Domińczyk as some of the most active participants. These chats serve as a platform for members to support and celebrate one another when interviews or features about their work are published.
For Canfield, the conclusion of the show signifies a full-circle moment. She joined the cast shortly after graduating from the Yale School of Drama in 2017. What she initially believed to be a one-episode role turned into something far more significant and rewarding.
Throughout the show’s four seasons, it was difficult not to root for Jess as she carried out her thankless duties for Kendall, including caring for his kids’ enormous rabbit. In the second-to-last episode, Jess finally quits her job after witnessing her boss enable the election of a fascist president. Reflecting on the finale, Canfield engaged in a lengthy conversation about embracing the sadness of the show’s end while celebrating Jess’ liberation from the world of the Roys. She contemplated Jess’ future beyond the show and shared the impact of “Succession” on her as an actor, from the camaraderie among the cast and crew to the meticulous writing. Canfield also acknowledged the ongoing strike by TV and film writers, including those who worked on “Succession,” to improve working conditions and pay.
Canfield disclosed that series creator Jesse Armstrong informed her during the filming of Episode 8 that Jess would eventually quit her job. Although she did not know exactly when her character’s departure would occur, Canfield reassured herself that it meant the writers wanted to provide her with a significant arc. After wrapping up shooting for the day, Canfield found herself sobbing in her trailer, overwhelmed by the impact of Jess’ decision. She recognized that the scene would likely mark the end of her character’s journey on the show. Canfield drew parallels between her experience of not being in the pilot or the series finale and appreciating the tapestry that the cast and crew had woven together.
When the official announcement was made that the show would not return, Canfield experienced devastation but also a sense of relief that she would not need to pitch an elaborate idea to bring back Jess for another season.
The final scene Canfield shot was the pivotal moment when Jess calls Kendall, followed by a brief interaction between the characters. Canfield appreciated that this additional scene allowed her to preserve a fragile boundary between her personal emotions and the character’s journey. However, she recalled a bittersweet encounter with her co-stars on the streets of New York City, reminiscing about her first day on set and provoking her emotions further.
Regarding Jess’ decision to quit, Canfield believes that it was a culmination of various factors. While Jess had been contemplating leaving for some time, the election outcome served as a catalyst that clarified her path forward.
Overall, Canfield’s experience on “Succession” has been profound, from the moments shared with her fellow cast members to the impact that the show has had on her career. As she bids farewell to her character, Canfield embraces the satisfaction of knowing that she played a meaningful role in the success of the series.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
