The upcoming season of Severance at Lumon Industries will mark a significant shift. Ben Stiller, a pivotal force behind the show’s stunning success, won’t be directing any episodes in its third season. This news has many viewers curious about what it means for the future of this acclaimed series.
Stiller recently shared his thoughts in an interview with the Los Angeles Times, stating, “I’m at the point in my life where I’m like, ‘The clock is ticking.’” As he prepares to star in Focker-In-Law, the latest installment of the Meet the Parents franchise, he is also working on a World War II survival film based on the true story of an airman involved with the French Resistance. With those commitments, Stiller has concluded that he won’t have the time to direct this season, emphasizing, “These things take time to come together, and the older you get, the more you realize that you only have so much time.”
Despite his absence as director, Stiller remains engaged with the creative process, collaborating with showrunner Dan Erickson and the Severance writing team throughout the year to ensure a smooth transition. This indicates that filming is set to begin soon, keeping Stiller’s vision alive as he continues his role as producer, even if he isn’t directing.
Why Stiller’s Direction Matters
His directorial influence has been crucial to what makes Severance a standout series. Stiller directed six of the nine episodes in the first season and half of the ten in the second, including the much-talked-about finale and the captivating episode “Woe’s Hollow.” The second season showcased new talent, featuring remarkable directors such as Jessica Lee Gagné, known for her twisty episode, “Chikhai Bardo.” While it’s uncertain if she will return, her innovative approach has left a lasting impression.
Can Other Directors Fill Stiller’s Shoes?
While no one has directed as many episodes as Stiller, several talented directors have successfully contributed to the series. Sam Donovan and Uta Briesewitz each directed two episodes of season two, while Aoife McArdle directed the three episodes Stiller did not handle in season one. This demonstrates that the show is in very capable hands, even as Stiller steps back from directing duties. Here’s what he had to say about the future of Severance on X:
Yes! It’s been full time the last 8 months working on season 3 and I’m not going anywhere. We have incredible directors and a team that creates the show. I love directing it and look forward to at some point again for sure. I feel like season 3 is going to be the best yet as we…
— Ben Stiller (@BenStiller) August 18, 2025
Does the news of a Severance season without Ben Stiller as director worry you? It’s a valid concern given his artistic vision. However, the collaborative spirit of the show’s team suggests that his legacy will continue to influence the series.
What inspired the concept behind Severance? The unique premise, which delves into the intricacies of work-life balance, has captivated many. It invites viewers to reflect on their own experiences in the workforce.
How did Stiller contribute to the storytelling of Severance? His directorial choices have shaped the tone, pacing, and emotional depth that defined both seasons, making the story resonate with its audience.
What should we expect in season three of Severance? With Stiller’s involvement in the planning phase, viewers can anticipate a season that continues to push boundaries, likely exploring even deeper themes of identity and existence.
As fans eagerly await what’s next for Severance, it’s clear that while Stiller’s departure as a director marks a new chapter, the show’s creative journey is far from over. If you’re eager to keep up with all the latest in film and television, check out more updates from Moyens I/O.