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Severance has become one of the most acclaimed series in recent years, praised for its originality, gripping storytelling, and stellar performances. However, lead actor Adam Scott admitted that he initially had serious doubts about his role and how audiences would respond to him in such a dramatic project.
Scott, widely recognized for his comedic roles in shows like Parks and Recreation and The Good Place, found it difficult to imagine himself leading a dark, sci-fi thriller. Speaking with Ben Stiller, who directed and produced Severance, Scott recalled his anxiety before the show’s debut. “The billboards went up before Season 1, and I saw my face, and I was like, Oh s–t. Like, what is going to happen? Are we just going to be made fun of?” he admitted. Stiller responded with humor, adding, “Or ignored.”
Scott confessed that stepping into the shoes of Mark was intimidating, especially since he wasn’t sure how seriously audiences would take him in such a different genre. “I remember I had my freak-out about that specific thing,” he said. He explained that once the series was ready to launch, he had to accept that the outcome was beyond his control. “It’s time to just push it out in the world and let it go,” Scott reflected.
Fortunately, his fears proved unnecessary. Severance not only won over viewers but also established itself as a cultural phenomenon, with Season 1 building a strong foundation for the story and its characters. Season 2 further solidified its success, earning 27 Primetime Emmy nominations and keeping the buzz alive around the series.
Looking back, Scott shared that even ahead of the second season, both he and Stiller worried about retaining the audience they had gained with the first. “I remember when we were getting ready to put Season 2 out, you and I were just worried about getting all of the Season 1 viewers back,” he said.
In the end, Severance not only silenced Scott’s initial doubts but also cemented his performance as one of the most compelling aspects of the show.