Script Apart with Al Horner Severance with Dan Erickson
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Mar 28, 2025 Dan Erickson, creator and showrunner of the critically acclaimed dystopian drama Severance, dives into the show's season two finale and its profound themes. He reveals how his personal struggles with mental health and workplace dynamics shaped the series. The conversation explores the concept of identity within corporate structures, touching on the blurred lines between work and personal life. Dan also candidly reflects on the emotional core of the show and the impact of productivity culture on humanity. Get ready for some revealing insights about the future of Severance!
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Why Severance Resonates Now
- Severance resonates because work increasingly demands diminished humanity and productivity trumps emotional nuance.
- Dan Erickson wrote the show from his experience wanting to cut out painful parts of life while also finding solace in work.
Door Factory Memory That Sparked The Show
- Dan recalls working at a door factory where small, human interactions kept him grounded amid tedious labor.
- He emphasizes that workplace warmth became the emotional heart of Severance's characters.
Depression Shaped His Storytelling
- Dan shares his personal struggle with depression and early academic shame that shaped him.
- He credits clawing out of that dark period with giving him power and empathy for storytelling.