Ben Stiller Won't Direct Severance Season 3, Focuses on WWII Film

Ben Stiller will not direct any episodes of Severance’s upcoming third season, as the actor-creator shifts his focus to a new war-film project and other commitments. The move comes as Severance remains Apple TV’s flagship drama, with development well underway behind the scenes. Stiller will continue to serve as executive producer, but the directing reins for Season 3 will be handled by a team of colleagues while he pursues a film project that centers on a World War II airman involved with the French Resistance. He has stressed that his involvement with the series remains substantial even as he cedes the directing chair for now.

Stiller’s decision to step back from directing stems from a packed slate of work. He has described the adjustment as part of a broader balancing act that comes with aging and a busy career, noting that “the clock is ticking” and that “sixty sounds old,” which reflects his interest in pursuing projects outside Severance. While he will not direct Season 3, he has asserted that he is not leaving the show and will continue to contribute as executive producer. He has also emphasized the strength of the Severance creative team, highlighting the work of the...