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Severance: When Ben Stiller Asked Obama to Join the Lumon Team – And What Happened Next

Apple TV+'s hit series Severance has captivated audiences with its eerie depiction of corporate life at Lumon Industries, a company that takes work-life balance to a literally mind-bending extreme. The show's blend of dark humour, suspense, and social commentary has made it a cultural phenomenon, sparking conversations about the nature of work and identity. But what happens when the fictional world of Severance brushes against the real world of politics and celebrity? The answer, it turns out, involves Barack Obama, Ben Stiller, and a politely declined invitation.

The Presidential Pitch: Stiller's Bold Idea for Season 2

Ben Stiller, a producer and director on Severance, recently revealed a fascinating tidbit about the show's second season. Speaking on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Stiller shared that he had pitched former US President Barack Obama the idea of voicing the Lumon Building itself. Imagine the gravitas and subtle menace Obama could have brought to the role! It was a bold move, a testament to the show's popularity, and a genuinely intriguing concept.

Obama's Response: A Fan, But Too Busy

Unfortunately for Severance fans (and Stiller himself), Obama's schedule proved too packed. According to Yahoo, Obama responded to Stiller's pitch via email, expressing that he was a "big fan" of the show but simply didn't have the time to commit. While disappointing, it's understandable. Former presidents are in high demand, juggling speaking engagements, philanthropic work, and various other commitments. It's a testament to Severance's reach that Obama was even aware of the show, let alone a fan.

Severance: More Than Just a TV Show – It's a Cultural Touchstone

Severance has resonated with audiences for several reasons. Firstly, its central premise – the severance procedure, which surgically divides an employee's memories between their work and personal lives – taps into anxieties about the increasing demands of modern workplaces. Who hasn't dreamed of escaping the drudgery of their 9-to-5, or wished they could completely separate their work self from their personal self?

Secondly, the show's unique aesthetic and atmosphere are incredibly compelling. The sterile, retro-futuristic office environment of Lumon Industries, the unsettling corporate jargon, and the pervasive sense of unease create a world that is both familiar and deeply unsettling. It's a world that invites speculation and analysis, leading to countless fan theories and online discussions.

Finally, Severance boasts a stellar cast, including Adam Scott, Patricia Arquette, John Turturro, and Christopher Walken, all of whom deliver captivating performances. Their portrayals of the severed employees and the enigmatic Lumon executives add depth and complexity to the show's already rich narrative.

Lumon Industries: A Fictional Company With Real-World Parallels

Lumon Industries, the fictional biotech company at the heart of Severance, is more than just a backdrop for the show's plot. It's a symbol of corporate power, control, and the dehumanizing aspects of modern work. Founded by the enigmatic Kier Eagan, Lumon claims to be "making life better for all of humanity" through its various products and technologies. However, the show subtly suggests a darker side to the company's mission.

According to the Severance Wiki, Lumon has a long and complex history, dating back to the 19th century. The company's first product was a topical salve, and since then, it has expanded into various fields, including biotechnology and, of course, the severance procedure. The wiki hints that Lumon is a massive and influential company, with offices in 206 countries and over a hundred thousand employees.

Macrodata Refinement: A Glimpse Into the Absurdity of Corporate Life

One of the most intriguing aspects of Severance is the depiction of the severed employees' work. In particular, the Macrodata Refinement (MDR) department, where Mark Scout (Adam Scott) and his colleagues work, is a source of endless fascination. The employees are tasked with sorting and refining mysterious data, with no clear understanding of what the data represents or what purpose it serves.

For those who've wondered what doing Macrodata Refinement is actually like, there's even a website that lets you try it yourself. It's a fun and slightly unsettling experience that highlights the absurdity and alienation that can sometimes be found in corporate life.

The Real-Life Lumon Building: A Pilgrimage for Fans

The striking architecture of the Lumon building has become iconic, instantly recognizable to fans of the show. Interestingly, the real-life location used for the exterior shots of the Lumon building is not a high-tech corporate headquarters but rather the Bell Works building in Holmdel Township, New Jersey.

Bell Works is a historic building that was once the headquarters of Bell Laboratories. Today, it's a mixed-use space that houses offices, retail stores, and community facilities. Fans of Severance can visit Bell Works and see the real-life Lumon building for themselves, making it a popular pilgrimage destination.

Severance Season 2: What's Next for Mark and His Colleagues?

While the first season of Severance left viewers with a cliffhanger ending, Season 2 promises to delve deeper into the mysteries of Lumon Industries and the severed employees' personal lives. The show's creators have hinted at exploring new characters, revealing more about the company's history, and expanding the scope of the Severance universe.

The news that Ben Stiller approached Barack Obama for a voice role in Season 2 only adds to the anticipation surrounding the show's return. While Obama's participation may not have materialized, it demonstrates the cultural impact of Severance and the high expectations for its future.

The Broader Implications: Work-Life Balance in the 21st Century

Severance is not just a work of entertainment; it's also a commentary on the changing nature of work and the challenges of maintaining a healthy work-life balance in the 21st century. The show raises important questions about the power dynamics between employers and employees, the ethical implications of technology, and the importance of personal identity.

In a world where work increasingly encroaches on our personal lives, Severance serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us to protect our autonomy and resist the forces that seek to separate us from our true selves.

The Future of Severance: Potential Outcomes and Strategic Implications

Looking ahead, the future of Severance is bright. The show's critical acclaim, passionate fanbase, and thought-provoking themes position it for continued success. Season 2 has the potential to further solidify Severance's place in the cultural zeitgeist, sparking even more conversations about the nature of work, identity, and corporate power.

Strategically, Apple TV+ has a valuable asset in Severance. By continuing to invest in high-quality storytelling and innovative concepts, the streaming service can attract and retain subscribers who are looking for more than just mindless entertainment. Severance is a show that challenges viewers to think critically about the world around them, and that's a valuable commodity in today's media landscape.

While Barack Obama may not be lending his voice to the Lumon Building anytime soon, the fact that he was even considered for the role speaks volumes about the impact and influence of Severance. As we eagerly await the arrival of Season 2, we can be sure that Lumon Industries will continue to haunt our imaginations and challenge our perceptions of the modern workplace.