Ben Stiller recently showed strong support for Adam Scott’s role in the critically acclaimed Apple TV+ series, Severance. Scott, 51, has garnered significant praise for his performance as Mark Scout, leading to Emmy nominations and awards. Stiller, 59, who serves as executive producer and director of the series, actively advocated for Scott’s casting, a move that stands out in Scott’s career.
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Scott reflected on Stiller’s support, stating, “I couldn’t really blame [Apple TV+] at the time. I was thought of as more of a comedic person, and it’s a big swing. I’ve never experienced anything like that before in show business. No one’s ever stuck their neck out for me like that.” This kind of advocacy is rare in the entertainment industry and highlights Stiller’s commitment to his cast.
Stiller acknowledged that Scott’s comedic background added a unique layer to the show. “So much of the show is based in The Office and Parks and Rec and Office Space, and that genre,” he said. “The humor in the script that Dan wrote was in that world but had this other layer to it. Casting was about figuring out who could handle that.” Stiller’s insight into the casting process reveals how he envisioned Scott fitting into the complex narrative of Severance.
This collaboration isn’t new for Stiller and Scott; the two previously worked together in 2013’s The Secret Life of Walter Mitty. Scott shared his enthusiasm about returning to work with Stiller, stating, “It was so fun, and I loved working with Ben. So when [Severance] came up years later, I jumped at the chance to work with him again.” Stiller expressed similar sentiments, saying, “I don’t think I ever imagined that we’d be doing a television series together, but I love working with Adam.”
According to Stiller, the process of creating Severance has been more enjoyable than their previous collaboration. He noted, “It’s gone on longer and we’ve been able to really get to know each other and work together as producers. It’s really been great.”
Severance offers a gripping storyline that delves into the lives of employees at Lumon Industries who have undergone a “severance” procedure, separating their work personas (or “innies”) from their real identities (or “outies”). In addition to Scott, the series features a talented cast, including Britt Lower, Zack Cherry, John Turturro, Trammell Tillman, Patricia Arquette, and Christopher Walken.
As new episodes of Severance continue to stream on Fridays via Apple TV+, Stiller’s passionate advocacy for Scott’s casting stands as a testament to his integrity and belief in his colleagues, potentially shaping Scott’s career and enhancing audience appreciation for their work. For anyone invested in the world of entertainment, this collaboration signals a compelling dynamic worth following.
