Ben Stiller recently discussed his experience directing Severance and the ongoing development of a new Meet the Parents movie, shedding light on why he decided not to appear on-screen in the acclaimed series. This interview highlights Stiller’s influence behind the scenes, as Apple TV+ renewed Severance for a third season following its successful run.
Ben Stiller’s Directorial Approach to Severance
Severance, which concluded its highly anticipated second season earlier this year, quickly became a topic of conversation regarding the show’s future. Apple TV+ settled any doubts by announcing a renewal for Season 3 on the same day as the Season 2 finale. The show, crafted for television by Dan Erickson, has benefited substantially from Stiller’s direction, helping elevate its profile among recent television hits.
In a recent interview with Variety, Ben Stiller revealed that there were discussions about him appearing in the first season as a doctor. Addressing this decision, he stated:
“We talked about it. There was a storyline that we were thinking about, but it just didn’t feel right. It’s great that I’m not in it. I’m very happy to not have my face on the billboard.”
-Ben Stiller, Director
Stiller’s decision to remain off-camera demonstrated a commitment to the integrity of the show’s narrative. He prioritized storytelling over cameo appearances, ensuring the creative direction remained uncompromised even if it meant passing up a potentially humorous moment. Rather than detracting from the impact, this choice underscored the collaborative effort of the team and Stiller’s dedication to quality content.
Award Recognition and Ongoing Involvement
Stiller’s focus on directing and creative input for Severance has paid off; he received two Emmy nominations for the first season, one recognizing his direction of “The We We Are” episode and another for Outstanding Drama Series. His deep involvement is credited as a key factor in the show’s critical and popular success. Severance, featuring performances from Adam Scott as Mark Scout and Britt Lower as Helly Riggs, is considered one of the standout television series in recent years, a status influenced by Stiller’s vision.
New Meet the Parents Movie Moves Forward with Notable Cast Additions
This week, Universal Pictures announced that another installment in the Meet the Parents franchise has officially been greenlit. Returning stars include Ben Stiller, Robert De Niro, Teri Polo, and Blythe Danner, reprising their iconic roles. The film is set for release on November 25, 2026, marking a significant return for the comedic series.
The studio also revealed that Ariana Grande, known both for her music career and her role in Wicked, will be joining the cast. Details about her character and storyline remain confidential for now, adding intrigue to the upcoming release. This collaboration brings together established film actors and a current pop sensation, potentially introducing the franchise to new audiences while keeping longtime fans engaged.
Anticipation for What Comes Next
With Severance renewed for a third season, viewers are eager for updates on when it might return, although no official release date has been disclosed. The involvement of key figures like Dan Erickson and Ben Stiller promises continued creative momentum. Meanwhile, the expanded Meet the Parents cast, including major names like Robert De Niro and Ariana Grande, suggests another hit in the making for Universal Pictures.
As both projects progress, interest remains high in how Ben Stiller’s choices—both as a director and collaborator—will shape their outcomes. Fans can watch the first two seasons of Severance on Apple TV+ and keep an eye out for more details on the upcoming Meet the Parents film, reinforcing Stiller’s impact in both television and film.
