Ben Stiller discusses Severance season 3 and Meet the Parents 4 in a recent interview with Zane Lowe, revealing new insights into both projects. With excitement growing around Apple’s acclaimed TV drama and the addition of Ariana Grande to the comedic “Meet the Parents” franchise, fans are eager to see what comes next for Stiller, his team, and the returning cast.
Ben Stiller Looks Ahead to Severance Season 3
As the second season of Severance finishes production, Stiller and his creative team are focused on shaping the show’s third season. The actor and director highlighted the unique challenges that come with maintaining momentum for a beloved series in today’s crowded entertainment world, where audiences have endless choices. He pointed out how crucial it is to deliver quality content to viewers who are invested, critical, and deeply engaged with the story.
“Probably the most challenging thing making stuff these days is there’s so much out there: video games, phones, movies, TV, everything,”
Stiller reflected.
“To have something that there’s going to be an audience waiting for it and they’re going to be critical and they’re going to be really ready for it and asking questions and you need to make sure it’s good, but they’re there.”
—Ben Stiller, director and actor
Stiller explained that his approach to crafting new episodes begins with considering what would keep both the creators and viewers invested. He and the team are returning to the core instincts that guided the show’s launch, asking themselves what they want to see and which storylines would remain true to the essence of Severance. He acknowledged the constant balancing act between maintaining the series’ signature mystery, exploring the relationships among characters, and delivering surprises that feel authentic.
“[All of us who are making the show are] going back to that instinct inside. What do we want to see? What interests us? What do we think will be surprising? What do we think will be true to the show? It is a question on a show like this, what is the heart of the show? Is it the relationships? Is it the mystery? Is it what is Lumon up to?”
—Ben Stiller, director and actor
While keeping specifics under wraps, Stiller emphasized that emotional storytelling and “human connection” remain at the heart of Severance’s appeal. He noted that the most memorable series are those that resonate on an emotional level and foster a connection between viewers and the world on screen.
“To me, anything that I ever watch, it’s always on an emotional level, when something hits me on an emotional level, moves me, makes me feel connected to the world or to other people in some way, that’s what it’s all about,”
he added.
“That’s always been what the point of the show is.”
—Ben Stiller, director and actor
Meet the Parents 4 Adds Ariana Grande and Brings Back Original Cast
In addition to his work on Severance, Stiller has confirmed plans for Meet the Parents 4, set for theatrical release in 2026. The project reunites Robert De Niro, Blythe Danner, and Teri Polo, celebrated names who helped make the earlier entries a success. This time, Ariana Grande joins the cast, marking a fresh dynamic for the familiar family ensemble.
Praising Grande’s talent, Stiller shared his enthusiasm about her involvement, especially following her performance in “Wicked.” He teased that she will be taking on a distinctive role that fits within the established family-driven narrative, which continues to explore complex relationships and generational quirks.
“She’s amazing,” Stiller commented, recognizing her previous work.
“I can’t really say too much about it, but she’s going to be so great in this movie, and it’s going to be really fun to play with her because it’s a very specific character that she’s playing. I think these movies are all about the family interactions. Everybody wants to get along with everybody, but we all have our baggage.”
—Ben Stiller, director and actor
Previous interviews hinted at Grande’s pivotal role, with Stiller noting she will serve as “the whole engine” of this new installment. Industry reports have indicated that Grande’s character is set to play the assertive fiancée of the son shared by Stiller and Teri Polo’s characters, promising both comedic conflict and fresh perspectives in the film’s iconic family dynamic. Robert De Niro, Blythe Danner, and Teri Polo’s return solidifies the project’s continuity and nostalgic appeal.
Audience Anticipation and Cultural Impact
Both Severance and the “Meet the Parents” franchise have established massive followings, drawing audiences who appreciate sharp writing, strong performances, and stories with emotional resonance. Ben Stiller’s dual focus on nuanced drama and family-centered comedy speaks to his versatility as a creative force in entertainment. With Severance season 3 aiming to answer lingering questions about Lumon and its mysterious agenda, and Meet the Parents 4 set to introduce Ariana Grande alongside beloved veterans, the next chapters in both series are generating excitement across the industry.
The anticipation surrounding these projects highlights the impact of Stiller’s work on both television and film, as he continues to blend heartfelt emotion, relatable challenges, and memorable characters. Viewers can look forward to new developments from Ben Stiller, Ariana Grande, Robert De Niro, Blythe Danner, and Teri Polo, as the drama of Severance and the humor of Meet the Parents evolve for new and returning fans alike.
