Ben Stiller, a name synonymous with comedy and cinematic creativity, is showing no signs of slowing down as he enters his seventh decade. Recently celebrating his 60th birthday in December 2023, Stiller’s career continues to evolve, reflecting both his rich comedic heritage and his relentless drive for new creative ventures. Raised in the glow of show business by the legendary comic duo Stiller and Meara, Stiller’s earliest memories are steeped in the energy of live performances and backstage camaraderie—memories that continue to shape his personal and professional life.
According to Esquire and other recent reports, Stiller is currently preparing for the third season of his acclaimed Apple TV+ series, Severance. The show, which has captivated audiences and critics alike, is entering pre-production for its third season as of late 2025. Stiller has played a pivotal role not just as a creative force behind the camera but as a guiding hand in the show’s direction. He’s been open about the collaborative nature of the project, noting that “the production team knows the story’s endpoint but enjoys discovering how to reach it,” as highlighted in an interview covered by El-Balad. The unique freedom afforded by streaming platforms, Stiller explained, has allowed the team to develop a multi-season arc without the usual network pressures, giving the story space to breathe and evolve.
But Severance isn’t Stiller’s only focus. He’s just wrapped filming on Focker In-Law, the latest installment in the beloved comedy franchise, where he reprises his role as Greg Focker. This time, he’s joined by a star-studded cast including Robert De Niro, Owen Wilson, and pop superstar Ariana Grande. Stiller’s enthusiasm for the project is palpable, especially as he reflects on the comedic legacy of his character and the excitement of reuniting with De Niro. “You just want to make sure there’s a reason to do it and that you can do something that’s worthy of those characters. That’s always the challenge,” Stiller remarked in his conversation with Esquire, touching on the delicate balance between nostalgia and innovation that drives successful sequels.
Adding to his already packed schedule, Stiller is stepping into the director’s chair for Airman, a World War II survival film starring Jeremy Allan White. Set to begin production in late 2024, the film marks another genre leap for Stiller, whose versatility as an actor, writer, producer, and director has become a hallmark of his career. His ability to traverse comedy, drama, and action with equal skill has kept him at the forefront of Hollywood for more than four decades.
Yet, it’s not just film and television that occupy Stiller’s creative mind these days. In a heartfelt tribute to his late parents and his own childhood in New York, Stiller has launched a beverage brand called Stiller’s Soda. The inspiration? His fond memories of sipping Shirley Temples at iconic spots like Patsy’s, feeling grown-up amid the laughter and clinking glasses of family gatherings. The soda line, which features flavors like Shirley Temple, Lemon Lime, and Root Beer, is more than just a nostalgic nod—it’s a health-conscious option, with each can containing only 30 calories and sweetened with natural ingredients. “I wanted to create a drink that resonates with adults but evokes those childhood memories,” Stiller explained, describing the six months he spent perfecting the recipe.
Stiller’s reflections on his past are laced with humor and warmth. He often recalls his father’s love for seltzer and the cherished family outings to Famous Dairy, memories that now find new life in every can of Stiller’s Soda. The brand stands as both a personal tribute and a savvy business move, blending sentiment with modern wellness trends.
Of course, Stiller’s legacy wouldn’t be complete without mention of his cult-classic film Tropic Thunder. Fans have long clamored for a sequel, and the buzz has only grown louder in recent months. Earlier in 2025, Esquire reported that Stiller and Tom Cruise—whose portrayal of the outrageous studio executive Les Grossman became an instant fan favorite—have had “fucking funny” conversations about a potential return to the film’s universe. While Stiller was quick to clarify that there’s no solid idea for a direct sequel yet, he didn’t rule out the possibility of revisiting the world of Tropic Thunder in some form. “Yeah definitely. I don’t know if it would be a Tropic Thunder sequel, per se, but something in that world, definitely. Tom and I have talked about it,” Stiller shared with Esquire.
One particularly tantalizing idea floated by Stiller involves Les Grossman attempting to buy Netflix—a satirical twist that would see the character navigating the modern media landscape, rife with billion-dollar mergers and streaming wars. “I think Les Grossman is going to buy Netflix,” Stiller joked, painting a vivid picture of Grossman as one of the many billionaires making headlines for their attempts to acquire media empires. The scenario, as described by CinemaBlend, could see familiar faces like Tugg Speedman (Stiller) and Kirk Lazarus (Robert Downey Jr.) caught in the chaos of a studio takeover, blending Hollywood satire with real-world industry intrigue.
However, Stiller is acutely aware of the cultural sensitivities that would shape any potential follow-up. He acknowledged that Tropic Thunder’s use of blackface, even in its satirical context, would likely prevent a direct remake today. “Ben Stiller has addressed why Tropic Thunder itself probably couldn't be made today, given the use of blackface (ironic or otherwise) and certain terminology,” noted CinemaBlend. The challenge, Stiller emphasized, is to honor the spirit of the original while adapting to the evolving standards and expectations of contemporary audiences.
Looking back, Stiller finds renewed appreciation for his body of work through the eyes of his children. He recently shared that his daughter’s unexpected enjoyment of Tropic Thunder gave him a fresh perspective on the film’s enduring appeal. This personal lens, combined with his professional experience, informs his approach to both new projects and potential revivals of beloved characters.
As for what’s next, Stiller remains characteristically optimistic—and a little tongue-in-cheek. He humorously predicted that a New York Knicks championship would come before any film sequels, a nod to his lifelong fandom and his ability to keep things in perspective. With a slate of projects spanning television, film, and business, Stiller’s creative journey is far from over. Whether he’s revisiting old favorites or forging new paths, one thing is clear: Ben Stiller’s impact on the entertainment industry—and the culture at large—remains as vibrant and relevant as ever.
With his hands in so many ventures and his heart firmly rooted in family and tradition, Ben Stiller continues to blend nostalgia with innovation, proving that reinvention is possible at any age. Audiences can look forward to more laughter, more stories, and perhaps, just maybe, another wild ride in the world of Tropic Thunder.
