Apple TV+ Finally Lands a Franchise Hit With ‘Severance’
Apple TV+ has been chasing a hit franchise since its inception, and with Severance, it may have finally cracked the code.
The psychological sci-fi drama, created by Dan Erickson and executive produced by Ben Stiller, has evolved from a cult favorite to a full-blown pop culture phenomenon.
With Severance season 3 in development and serious discussions around Severance spinoffs, the series is not just surviving its hiatus — it’s thriving.
From the moment audiences were introduced to Lumon Industries and the bizarre world of “innies” and “outies,” Severance sparked intrigue.
Two seasons in, it’s become one of Apple TV+’s most culturally relevant shows, complete with fan theories, viral memes, and devoted Reddit threads.
Terms like “innie” and “outie” have escaped the show’s confines and infiltrated real-world conversations, a surefire sign that Severance has made its mark.
Ben Stiller Confirms Spinoffs Are in the Cards
The excitement surrounding Severance spinoffs was further validated when Ben Stiller confirmed in an interview with Variety that the creative team has ideas in development. While Stiller didn’t detail what those spinoffs would look like, or if they’ve been officially greenlit by Apple TV+, his remarks have set the fandom abuzz.
Considering the rich world that Severance has established — from Lumon’s twisted corporate culture to its mysterious leadership hierarchy — the potential for expansion is limitless. Could we see a prequel exploring the origins of Lumon? A spinoff centered around other departments within the organization? Or perhaps a continuation focused on a different set of employees grappling with their dual realities?
Stiller also floated the concept of a Severance video game, an idea that’s gaining traction among fans. With a universe built on fragmented memories and eerie atmospheres, the premise is tailor-made for immersive gameplay.
‘Severance’ Has Become More Than Just Prestige TV
Apple TV+ has produced critically acclaimed content from day one, winning Emmys and Golden Globes for shows like Ted Lasso and The Morning Show. However, while these series performed well, few managed to spark the level of organic, viral fandom that Severance now commands.
The show’s influence has extended well beyond the streaming screen. Marketing campaigns have included immersive activations at iconic locations like Grand Central Station and Madison Square Garden. Merchandise is starting to pop up, and Apple’s brand alignment with sleek, futuristic design perfectly mirrors the show’s aesthetic.
All of this contributes to a larger narrative: Severance isn’t just a show. It’s a world. And in today’s media landscape, building worlds is what separates content from franchises.
What Spinoffs Mean for Apple TV+
For Apple TV+, spinoffs represent a new chapter. Unlike competitors like HBO and Disney+ — which have long established their dominance through franchises like Game of Thrones and Star Wars — Apple has struggled to develop long-term IPs that attract new subscribers and retain existing ones.
Severance may be the first domino. The buzz around the show has continued to grow despite a lengthy hiatus between seasons. This type of sustained interest is rare in the current streaming climate, where attention spans are short and new shows are constantly vying for viewers’ time.
If Apple can successfully spin off Severance into additional series, it could establish the streamer as a serious contender in the franchise-building space. It also provides a compelling reason for users to keep subscribing, especially in a market saturated with content and plagued by churn.
What’s Next for ‘Severance’?
While no official release date has been confirmed for season 3, production is underway.
The cast, led by Adam Scott, Patricia Arquette, and John Turturro, is expected to return. As fans eagerly await the next installment, speculation is mounting about what comes next — both within the main storyline and beyond.
Whether or not spinoffs materialize in the near future, the very fact that they’re being discussed is a major win for Apple TV+. It’s proof that the show has not only resonated with audiences but has also laid the groundwork for a much larger media universe.
