As Apple TV+'s hit series "Severance" gears up for its second season premiere, executive producer Ben Stiller and star Adam Scott are offering intriguing hints about what viewers can expect from the critically acclaimed sci-fi thriller.
The show's first season introduced audiences to Mark Scout (Scott) and his colleagues at Lumon Industries, who undergo a procedure separating their work memories from their personal lives. The groundbreaking concept resonated strongly with viewers, especially in a post-pandemic world where work-life balance has become increasingly relevant.
"It was amazing. It was funny and weird," says Stiller, who directed most of Season 1. "The idea of having a chip that cuts off your memories when you go to work, so you're like these two different people... it's a fantasy a lot of people might have."
Season 2, premiering January 17th, promises to explore the aftermath of the first season's shocking finale. Fans will witness Mark and his coworkers dealing with revelations about their real-life identities, including the bombshell that Mark's supposedly deceased wife is actually alive within Lumon's walls.
The show has developed an enthusiastic following online, with fans meticulously analyzing every detail and developing theories. "That's a totally new experience," Stiller notes. "There are not any message boards debating theories for Zoolander."
Scott emphasizes that the new season will reward devoted viewers' attention to detail. However, series creator Dan Erickson warns that not all mysteries will be solved, maintaining the show's enigmatic nature.
Drawing an unexpected comparison, Stiller describes the viewing experience as "this weird kind of house of horrors-meets-rollercoaster type of thing," with Scott adding it's "like a more disturbing version of It's a Small World."
The 10-episode second season of "Severance" will stream weekly on Apple TV+ starting January 17th.