When Cillian Murphy Revealed HBO’s Succession Left Him Devastated: “I’m So Heartbroken That…”

It’s been over a year since HBO’s Succession signed off, but for many fans, the sting remains fresh — and that includes none other than Cillian Murphy. The celebrated actor, fresh off his dazzling portrayal of J. Robert Oppenheimer in Christopher Nolan’s 2023 biopic, shared during the whirlwind press tour for Oppenheimer in early 2024 just how deeply the show’s conclusion affected him.

In a candid interview with Variety, Murphy admitted, “I met some of the guys from Succession. That’s my favorite show on the telly. I’m so heartbroken that it’s finished.” This heartfelt confession came at the 2024 Golden Globes, a night when Succession was taking its final victory lap, while Oppenheimer was just beginning its ascent toward Oscar glory. For Murphy, who was then Hollywood’s golden boy, the moment of meeting some of television’s most riveting characters felt less like a formal event and more like a fan encounter — a rare instance of starstruck admiration.

Murphy’s affection for Succession isn’t surprising. Known for his intense roles, from Tommy Shelby in Peaky Blinders to collaborations with Nolan on films like Inception and Batman Begins, Murphy is no stranger to powerful storytelling. Yet even an actor of his stature finds himself drawn to the magnetic pull of prestige TV — and Succession stands as one of the finest examples. He wasn’t a casual viewer but a devoted fan, deeply invested in the show’s razor-sharp dialogue, ruthless boardroom battles, and the complex dynamics of the Roy family.

Though Murphy didn’t reveal exactly which cast members he met — likely Jeremy Strong or Kieran Culkin, judging by the event — the encounter clearly meant a lot. It highlighted how Succession transcended its screen to influence and resonate within the broader entertainment community.

The show’s impact was undeniable. It dominated awards seasons, raking in Globes and Emmys, while maintaining a firm grip on the cultural zeitgeist. Murphy’s praise served as a reminder that even creators of cinematic masterpieces keep a close eye on the groundbreaking narratives unfolding on television.

Despite the heartbreak of saying goodbye, Succession ended on its own terms, a fact Murphy surely appreciated. Creator Jesse Armstrong and his writers resisted the temptation to stretch the story out, opting instead for a tight, brutal, and unforgettable four-season arc. The show wasted no time: the death of Logan Roy early in Season 4 set the stage for a fierce power struggle among his children — a game with no real winner.

Shiv backed her husband Tom as CEO while plotting her own moves, Kendall faced his demons head-on, and Roman, always the wild card, found an uneasy freedom. It wasn’t a tidy conclusion, but it was authentic — and that’s what made it resonate.

Murphy, who gravitates toward roles where the journey and the ending both hold weight, recognized this truth. Whether portraying Oppenheimer’s tragic genius or Shelby’s dark descent, Murphy chooses stories that land with emotional impact. Succession was no different.

More than a year later, Succession lives on — fans still quote it, binge it, and miss it. And it’s comforting to know that Cillian Murphy is right there with us, still not over it.