On with Kara Swisher: Why Ben Stiller Made Severance

What this episode covers

Ben Stiller knew he needed to make Severance the moment he read an early version of the show in a writing sample its creator, Dan Erickson, submitted to his production company. Now, years later, Severance is a hit, reportedly generating $200 million for Apple TV, and Stiller is the series’ executive producer and go-to director responsible for some of its most pivotal episodes. Kara talks to Stiller about the most poignant themes of the show, from its commentary on surveillance and technology to its meditations on trauma and identity. Plus, they chat politics — including Stiller’s reaction to an angry post about him by Elon Musk and his view on making political art now. Listen to more from On with Kara Swisher here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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How long is this episode of Pivot?

This episode is 58 minutes long.

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This episode was published on February 18, 2025.

What is this episode about?

Ben Stiller knew he needed to make Severance the moment he read an early version of the show in a writing sample its creator, Dan Erickson, submitted to his production company. Now, years later, Severance is a hit, reportedly generating $200 million...

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