In a thrilling announcement that has captured the attention of fans worldwide, Apple has renewed its hit show, Severance, for a third season. The decision comes on the heels of the second season's finale, which aired recently, leaving viewers eagerly waiting for more.
According to reports, the series has garnered more than 589 million views in the United States alone, solidifying its status as one of the most watched shows on Apple TV+. This milestone reflects not just the show's popularity, but also its intriguing premise that explores the lives of employees subjected to a bizarre corporate procedure that separates their professional memories from their personal lives.
Tim Cook, CEO of Apple, took to social media to share the exciting news, responding to director Ben Stiller's post, saying, "Season 3 of Severance is available upon request." This lighthearted comment comes as fans celebrate the show's continuation after a long wait since the release of the second season.
Director and executive producer Ben Stiller also confirmed the renewal during a recent episode of the New Heights podcast, hosted by NFL stars Jason and Travis Kelce. He reassured fans, stating, "We don’t plan to wait three years" like they did between the first and second seasons. Stiller expressed his hope that the release timeline for the new season would be much shorter, enhancing viewer anticipation.
The storyline follows Mark Scout, played by Adam Scott, who leads a team at Lumon Industries, the company at the heart of the show. The unique medical procedure depicted in the series forces employees to effectively split their identities: one for work and another for personal time. This concept poses intriguing questions about memory, consciousness, and the essence of identity.
The premise has resonated deeply, leading to a fervent fan base as evident from the significant engagement on social media platforms since the announcement. Stiller noted that the series had undergone notable changes since its inception, saying, "When we first started, Severance was one of the first shows on the platform. Now the audience for the service has significantly grown."
The initial season of Severance premiered in February 2022, followed by the much-anticipated second season that was ultimately released on January 17, 2025. The delays were largely attributed to the strikes by the Writers Guild and the actors’ union that impeded production. Filming for the second season extended over an intense 186 days, adding to the anticipation for the completed episodes.
The finale of the second season, titled Cold Harbor, shattered records as the longest episode in the series’ history, clocking in at 76 minutes. Its gripping narrative and the mature themes explored led it to receive a rating of MA 15+, due to its intense scenes. This final episode capped off a season characterized by deep explorations of the characters’ identities outside of their corporate lives.
Encouraged by the show's fresh premise and profound storytelling, Severance has not only captivated viewers but also received critical acclaim. The series has earned 14 nominations at the Emmys, winning two for outstanding musical composition and opening title design, along with additional accolades from the Writers Guild of America.
As fans eagerly await the forthcoming third season, the creative team is dedicated to ensuring that the next installment maintains the standards set by its predecessors. Dan Erickson, creator and head writer of Severance, voiced his intention to finish the series before reaching the age of 70, joking about the need for swifter production this time. He lamented the prolonged wait for the previous seasons, particularly due to the industry strikes that paused the show’s momentum.
Excitement surrounding the third season is palpable, especially as it promises to unveil further secrets about Lumon Industries. The production team is confident that they can deliver new episodes substantially faster than in past years, which bodes well for the franchise's future growth.
Audience members have already begun speculating about what themes and plot twists might be addressed in the upcoming episodes, emphasizing the strong connection viewers feel toward the characters and their struggles. As these imaginative theories circulate, it is clear that Severance has carved out a unique niche in the crowded streaming landscape.
Despite Apple TV+ reportedly struggling profit-wise, losing over $1 billion annually on the platform, the colossal viewership of Severance suggests that the show is a significant asset, likely preventing further losses through its popularity.
As the journey of Mark Scout and his colleagues progresses, fans remain on the edge of their seats, awaiting the next chapter in this thought-provoking narrative. With the promise of groundbreaking storytelling that tackles the complexities of the human psyche, Severance continues to hold its place at the forefront of pressing cultural discussions.
While the exact release date for the third season remains unspecified, anticipation is on the rise after Stiller's cheerful declaration. Fans are reminded that quality storytelling takes time, but with high expectations from both audiences and critics alike, the third season of Severance is sure to be an event not to miss.
