The Severance Podcast with Ben Stiller & Adam Scott
Audacy, Red Hour, Great Scott
Hi, we're Ben Stiller and Adam Scott. We have severed ourselves from the world for 5 years, making the workplace thriller Severance. While we have no memory of what happened during that time, we thought we should make a companion podcast for all the Innies who will have no recollection of watching, in an attempt to reintegrate them with their memory of the show. For seasons one and two, we did an episode-by-episode, behind-the-scenes breakdown with the creators, cast, crew, and fans of the Emmy- and Peabody Award-winning TV show. We shared in-depth, never-before-heard analysis, alongside guests including creator Dan Erickson, stars Britt Lower ("Helly"), Zach Cherry ("Dylan"), John Turturro ("Irving"), Christopher Walken ("Bert"), Patricia Arquette ("Cobel") and Tramell Tillman ("Milchick"), and celebrity superfans like SZA, Jon Stewart, Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard. Now we're bringing on special guests to talk about the tv shows, movies and cultural touchpoints that influenced us while making Severance. Sometimes we'll talk with the people behind those inspirational works, sometimes we'll talk with fellow fans, and through it all, we'll keep answering your hotline questions. If you’ve got a question about Severance or the stuff that influenced it, call us at 212-830-3816. From Audacy Podcasts, Red Hour, and Great Scott.
Episodes
Mentioned books
85 snips
Feb 7, 2025 • 1h 3min
S2E4: Woe's Hollow (with Theodore Shapiro)
Theodore Shapiro, an Emmy-winning composer known for his work on films like Dodgeball and Tropic Thunder, joins the conversation. He reveals the intriguing process behind creating Severance's catchy score, including the four chords that sparked its main theme. The discussion delves into his collaborative journey with Ben Stiller since 2004 and the unique Kier folk tunes he discovered while scoring. Together, they engage in a lively exchange about the challenges and triumphs of weaving music into storytelling.
60 snips
Jan 31, 2025 • 60min
S2E3: Who Is Alive? (with Gwendoline Christie)
Gwendoline Christie, known for her iconic role as Brienne of Tarth in Game of Thrones, joins to discuss her intriguing character in Severance. She shares insights into her unique acting journey and the whimsical absurdity of the show. Gwendoline recounts her surprising discoveries about goats on set, revealing their intelligence and quirky behavior. The conversation dives into themes of community, authenticity, and embracing individuality, all while keeping a light-hearted tone that invites laughter and reflection.
71 snips
Jan 24, 2025 • 1h
S2E2: Goodbye Mrs. Selvig (with Dan Erickson)
Dan Erickson, the creator of the hit series Severance, joins Ben and Adam to discuss the intriguing all-Outtie episode. He shares his unique approach to character development and the challenges of split lives. The conversation touches on the dark humor of Lumen's psychological tactics and Mark's evolving awareness. Erickson humorously reveals the lunch options at Lumon and even connects the show's universe to Monsters Inc. Tune in for insights on creativity, identity, and some quirky anecdotes!
30 snips
Jan 17, 2025 • 1h 11min
S2E1: Hello, Ms. Cobel (with Tramell Tillman)
Join Tramell Tillman, the talented actor behind Mr. Milchick, as he dives into the complexities of his character and his new role as Floor Manager. Tramell argues that Milchick isn't as bad as he seems, offering intriguing insights into the moral ambiguities of corporate life. The hosts also answer fan questions and engage in playful predictions about the future of the show. Plus, hear reflections on the importance of collaboration in storytelling and the fun of dancing through life and film.
18 snips
Jan 16, 2025 • 1h 6min
S1E9: The We We Are (with Jon Stewart)
Joining Ben Stiller and Adam Scott is Jon Stewart, comedian and former host of The Daily Show, who’s a self-professed superfan of Severance. They dive into the thrilling Season 1 Finale, with Jon demanding answers and sharing insights from his set visit. He discusses the challenges of bold storytelling and offers his take on the season's creative choices, amusingly referring to it all being about 'wingspan.' Plus, there's a quirky nod to a Daily Show-style waffle party. It's a blend of humor and heartfelt reflections on storytelling.
7 snips
Jan 15, 2025 • 57min
S1E8: What's for Dinner? (with John Turturro)
Join John Turturro, the Emmy-winning actor known for his iconic roles, as he chats about his dynamic working relationship with Christopher Walken and his friendship with Zach Cherry. Turturro reveals a near-miss with a legendary filmmaker, adding spice to the conversation. The trio dives into character development, exploring how Irving's identity is shaped through art and music. They also discuss the emotional struggles within the workplace and the quirky humor that brings the cast together.
15 snips
Jan 14, 2025 • 1h 17min
S1E7: Defiant Jazz (with Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard)
Dax Shepard, a talented actor and comedian known for his role in Parenthood, teams up with Kristen Bell, the beloved voice of Frozen, as they dive into the seventh installment of Severance. The duo shares laughs with Kristen's hilarious Patricia Arquette impression. They unpack the episode’s exploration of emotional isolation and the creative chaos of TV production. Listeners are treated to amusing anecdotes about their struggles with memory and endearing reflections on love and connection, all wrapped in lighthearted banter.
11 snips
Jan 13, 2025 • 60min
S1E6: Hide and Seek (with Geoff Richman)
Geoff Richman, an Emmy-award winning editor known for his work on Severance and Tiger King, takes listeners behind the curtain of post-production. He discusses the collaborative dynamic between editors and directors, revealing the emotional challenges of transitioning scripts to visuals. The importance of scene transitions and narrative pacing are highlighted, showcasing how they enhance character development. Richman also explores the show's themes of rebellion and the balance of comedy and darkness, making for an engaging conversation about the art of storytelling.
13 snips
Jan 10, 2025 • 1h 12min
S1E5: The Grim Barbarity Of Optics and Design (with Jen Tullock)
In this lively discussion, Jen Tullock, known for her role as Devon in Severance, joins Ben and Adam to dissect her character’s quirky dynamics and the hilarious aspects of her on-screen relationship with Ricken. They explore outlandish fan theories about mysterious baby goats and touch on the intriguing concept of 'birthing retreats.' The trio also shares insights into creating genuine connections during filming, reflecting on the balance between humor and vulnerability in their characters’ journeys.
13 snips
Jan 9, 2025 • 55min
S1E4: The You You Are
Ben and Adam dive into the creative process behind filming, sharing hilarious behind-the-scenes stories. They explore the complex dynamics of character relationships, especially between Helly and Mark, all while intertwining childhood nostalgia with serious themes. The duo humorously reflects on self-help literature's impact on workplace morale and identity struggles. Plus, they tackle the absurdity of acrostic poetry and the excitement of fantasy sports, leaving listeners entertained and contemplative.
