Bullseye with Jesse Thorn Severance's Tramell Tillman
Jul 22, 2025
Tramell Tillman, known for his role as Mr. Milchick in the sci-fi workplace series Severance, shares insights on his unique character, collaborating with Ben Stiller to bring Mr. Milchick to life. He discusses his upbringing in Baltimore and his early work on The Wire, revealing how his faith experience in the Baptist church shaped his identity. Tillman reflects on his transition from a conventional career to acting, navigating the challenges of fame while embracing his artistic journey and the complexities of personal success.
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Creating Mr. Milchick
- Tramell Tillman helped create Mr. Milchick's character as a black, enthusiastic company man with a strong, disciplined leadership presence.
- He collaborated closely with Ben Stiller to blend menace, warmth, and humor into Milchick's persona.
Faith Journey in Baptist Church
- Tillman experienced fear and shame growing up Baptist due to strict church teachings and lack of questioning faith.
- He later embarked on a personal journey asking tough questions to understand his faith on his own terms.
Black Church and LGBTQ+ Tensions
- Black churches traditionally accepted effeminate men only if they served the church visibly while denying open acknowledgment of their sexuality.
- There remains a gap between covert acceptance and full inclusion of LGBTQ+ individuals in many congregations.