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Tramell Tillman, best known for his Emmy-nominated role as Seth Milchick on Apple TV’s Severance, is joining the cast of Spider-Man: Brand New Day, following the success of No Way Home. Variety confirmed the news, though his exact role in the film remains under wraps.
Tillman began his career with TV roles in Dietland and Godfather of Harlem and appeared in films like Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning. Born on June 17, 1985, in Washington, DC, he was raised in a Baptist household. He graduated summa cum laude in mass communication from Jackson State University in 2008 and spent nearly a decade working in the nonprofit sector before pursuing acting professionally.
Tillman has been open about the challenges he faced in Hollywood and in navigating his own identity. In Severance, he became the first openly gay Black actor to earn an Emmy nomination for Best Supporting Actor. He discussed coming out to his mother, who was supportive despite her religious background, and contrasted that with his father, who was critical of both his career choice and religious views. Despite a rough upbringing, including corporal punishment and a strict household, Tillman credits his mother’s early encouragement, even performing alongside her in his first play in 1995, for helping him pursue acting.
Severance became Tillman’s breakthrough. His character, Seth Milchick, is a manager at the Lumon company known for his polite but intimidating presence. Tillman described the role as putting on “a suit of armor,” emphasizing that every movement was intentional. Critics and producers praised his ability to balance subtle humor with menace, making the character both funny and frightening.
Before Severance, Tillman appeared in shows like Difficult People, Dietland, Elementary, Godfather of Harlem, and Hunters. His film credits include Barron’s Cove, Sweethearts, and Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning. With Spider-Man: Brand New Day, Tillman continues to expand his presence in both television and blockbuster cinema, marking another exciting step in his rising career.