Succession's Brian Cox explains how Logan Roy's origins were changed

In the show, the character's backstory is defined as being born in Dundee, Scotland, in a nod to Cox's real-life hometown, but having relocated to Quebec, Canada, at an early age – hence the muted Scottish accent heard on the show.

However, during a panel at the Edinburgh International TV Festival 2022, Cox explained how Logan's Scottish roots were a late stage addition as filming on the first season was nearing completion.

"I suggested that Logan Roy could be Scots and Jesse [Armstrong, creator] said, 'Oh no no, he needs to be American, he can't be Scots'," began Cox.

"[Exec producer] Adam McKay on the other hand thought it was a great idea, but Jesse said, 'No no, he's got to be American'. So they decided in the pilot that I was born in Quebec, which isn't really America."

Cox wouldn't discover that his suggestion had been taken onboard until months later, during a conversation with a fellow Succession cast member amid production on the ninth episode of season 1.

"Peter Friedman, who plays Frank, said to me, 'I've just done an ADR session: they've changed your birthplace, you're not from Quebec anymore'," recalled Cox.

"I said, 'So where am I born?' He said, 'I can't remember...', and he goes and gets his device out and he goes, 'Oh yeah, somewhere called Dundee, Scotland'."

Cox added: "I spoke to Jesse and said, 'What happened?' and he said, 'Oh we thought it'd be a little surprise' – that's f**king writers for you!"

Succession has become one of HBO's flagship shows over recent years, earning rave reviews, a slew of awards and growing its viewership with every passing season.

The show was renewed for season 4 in October of last year, which started filming this summer, although the next batch of episodes are yet to be given a premiere date.

Succession is available to watch on Sky and stream on NOW – sign up for Sky TV here. Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide to see what's on tonight.

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