When it comes to on-screen romance, few could have predicted that one of the most heartwarming pairings in recent TV history would be between John Turturro and Christopher Walken in Severance. Their slow-burning, tender relationship as Irving and Burt stole hearts and added an unexpected layer of warmth to the show’s eerie corporate dystopia. But did you know that this unique pairing was Turturro’s idea? That’s right; he envisioned Walken as the perfect romantic counterpart for his character, and honestly, we can’t imagine it any other way. From the moment Irving and Burt locked eyes, their chemistry was undeniable, characterized by cautious touches and lingering glances, all building up to something beautifully soft and genuine.
So how did this dream team come together? What made John Turturro say, “Who could I fall in love with?” before immediately thinking of Christopher Walken? Let’s explore that fascinating backstory. Turturro wasn’t merely searching for a scene partner; he was looking for someone who would truly resonate with his character. When the opportunity arose to shape his character’s romantic arc, he didn’t hesitate. In a recent interview with Esquire, Turturro revealed that he actively pushed for Walken to play Burt. He expressed his thought process, stating, “My thinking was, ‘Who could I fall in love with?’ I worked with Chris many times; I’ve directed him. When there’s someone you can laugh with and have fun with, that’s a form of love, really. You just get someone, and they get you. You know what I mean? I love Chris. He’s a beautiful guy. We have so much fun.”
Turturro believed that Walken’s unique presence and warmth would perfectly complement Irving’s quiet longing. And, indeed, he was right. Watching their relationship blossom on-screen felt like witnessing two souls rediscovering love in the most unexpected of places, inside the cold, fluorescent-lit halls of Lumon Industries. Their love story was built on subtle gestures—a hand resting just a little too long, a shared appreciation for the beauty in the mundane, and the courage to reach for connection in a world that often discourages it.
Turturro’s decision to bring Walken into his story wasn’t merely about chemistry; it was about powerful storytelling. He understood that love doesn’t always arrive in conventional forms. Seeing two older men, seasoned in life and experience, navigate romance organically was both refreshing and deeply moving. And Christopher Walken? He was fully committed to the role. While John Turturro supplied the vision, Walken brought the magic. Known for his offbeat charm and iconic voice, Walken embraced the role of Burt with a sincerity that rendered the romance utterly authentic.
Walken’s portrayal of Burt is marked by gentleness, poetic nuance, and a depth that captures the audience. His ability to make every interaction feel significant—from the way he speaks to the way he listens—adds layers to his character. Each time he looked at Irving, it was filled with curiosity, admiration, and a purity that resonates deeply. It’s no wonder Turturro insisted on Walken; their dynamic resembles two great jazz musicians riffing off each other, completely in sync yet always leaving room for improvisation.
The beauty of their partnership lies in its effortless quality. There are no grand declarations or dramatic fireworks, just two people finding solace in one another. In a show as unsettling as Severance, this simple, honest love story was a heartwarming gift. John Turturro deserves credit for delivering a romance that transcended expectations, allowing us to believe in love, no matter how it may find us, even in the most unusual of circumstances. We hope to see much more of this captivating duo in season 2 of Severance, which is available to stream on Apple TV+