I haven't seen anyone note that Nate was clearly projecting his rage against his own father onto Ted. Ted never abandoned Nate, but Nate's father never celebrated Nate's success. And Ted didn't have the picture up in his office only because it was on his bedside table at home. Presented with an opportunity to take the helm, Nate could only separate from Ted through emotional violence. A tender parting - precisely the kind Keely and Rebecca enjoyed - was impossible for Nate because he could only man up, not, as the Diamond Dogs would recommend, woman up.
