Apple TV’s “Severance” has made a significant impact with its intriguing, yet bizarre storyline. The series portrays a unique concept where employees at Lumon Industries have their consciousness divided for work. This premise allows for an exploration of themes that can appear surreal and puzzling. However, changes made by director and executive producer Ben Stiller have further shaped the show’s narrative, making it less eccentric than initially envisioned.
Behind the Scenes Changes in “Severance”
In a 2022 interview, Dan Erickson, the series creator and writer, discussed the evolution of “Severance.” He disclosed that Stiller’s input played a critical role in refining the script before it was approved by Apple TV. Stiller aimed to ground the story more, as he believed the original concept was already sufficiently strange.
Edits to the Original Script
Erickson shared specific instances of scenes that were cut from the final production. Some of these ideas were considered too bizarre for the intended audience. For example, one draft featured disembodied legs running through the office, alongside a previously depicted floor that appeared destroyed, suggesting a mysterious battle.
- The initial version included elements like:
- Disembodied legs running past characters.
- A floor with evidence of destruction and chaos.
- A scene with a trapped employee begging for help.
Stiller’s approach emphasized removing unnecessary weirdness, allowing for more impactful storytelling. In Erickson’s words, Stiller questioned many peculiar aspects to ensure that each element served a clear purpose in the narrative. As a result, “Severance” retained its unique charm without overwhelming viewers with outlandish visuals.
Looking Ahead to Season 3
As fans await the continuation of the series, Season 3 of “Severance” is expected to begin filming in spring 2026. With questions lingering about unresolved plot points, viewers are eager to see how the story will evolve with Stiller’s refined vision.
