On with Kara Swisher Why Ben Stiller Made Severance (and Doesn’t Care about What Elon Says About Him)
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Feb 3, 2025 
Ben Stiller, an acclaimed actor and director, dives deep into the success of 'Severance,' revealing how its unique premise reshapes our understanding of identity in the workplace and beyond. He reflects on the show's commentary on surveillance and corporate control, drawing parallels to real-world issues. Stiller also shares his candid thoughts on making political art and discusses humorous yet poignant moments from the series, even addressing criticisms from tech moguls like Elon Musk with clarity and wit. Tune in for a blend of humor and insightful dialogue!
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Casting Choice
- Ben Stiller was initially considered to star in Severance but decided to focus on directing.
- He immediately envisioned Adam Scott for the lead role upon reading the script.
Tech Billionaire Motivations
- Ben Stiller believes tech billionaires are primarily driven by greed and a thirst for power.
- He expresses concern about their influence and motivations.
Retro Setting
- The retro setting of Severance, reminiscent of the 1970s, was intentional.
- It reflects a corporate blandness and avoids technological and brand references.