Ben Stiller, a pivotal creative force behind Apple TV+'s hit psychological thriller “Severance,” will not be directing any episodes of the eagerly awaited third season due to scheduling conflicts with a major new project—a World War II survival drama slated to begin filming in spring 2026.
Stiller's absence from the director's chair in Season 3 marks a significant shift for the series, which he helped launch and shape by directing the majority of episodes across the first two seasons. Though he won't helm episodes this time, he remains deeply involved as an executive producer and has been working on the show's development throughout the year.
The forthcoming WWII project, reportedly titled “The Lost Airman,” is an Amazon/MGM production based on Seth Meyerowitz's book. It chronicles the true story of Arthur Meyerowitz, an American turret gunner shot down over Vichy France in 1943, who survived by joining the French Resistance. Jake Gyllenhaal, who has had a long-standing attachment to the project, remains involved as a producer and potential star, while Stiller directs.
This pivot to a survival thriller represents a notable turn for Stiller, whose feature directing credits—such as “Zoolander,” “Tropic Thunder,” and “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty”—showcase his versatility but have mostly leaned comedic. His work on “Severance” marked a reinvention, revealing a deftness for atmospheric, nuanced television that blends suspense and psychological depth.
The “Severance” series itself, created by Dan Erickson and known for blending sci-fi with psychological thriller elements, centers on Adam Scott's character, Mark Scout, whose memories are surgically divided between work and personal life—a premise that has captivated audiences and critics alike since the show's February 2022 debut on Apple TV+.
Season 3 is confirmed but has no official release date yet. Filming has not started as of mid-2025, with estimates suggesting a release window anywhere between late 2026 and early 2027. The show's second season aired in January 2025 after a lengthy gap following season 1 due to industry strikes and production delays. Stiller and the showrunner Dan Erickson have been carefully planning season 3 to maintain the series' high standard while accommodating his directorial hiatus.
Directorial duties for Season 3 will likely be assumed by others, including Emmy-nominated Jessica Lee Gagné. Stiller's stepping back has been perceived positively, offering the series a chance to inject fresh creative voices and sustain its dynamic energy.
Looking beyond “Severance,” Stiller's packed slate also includes producing the latest “Meet the Parents” sequel, a documentary about his parents titled “Stiller & Meara: Nothing Is Lost,” and an HBO dramedy “The Band.” His comments about time constraints reflect a mature recalibration of priorities as he balances multiple creative ventures.
The trajectory of Stiller's career—pivoting from comedy icon to a serious director of genre-bending television and soon a World War II survival drama—is a compelling example of an artist reinventing himself while leaving a discernible impact on contemporary television storytelling.
Summary:
Ben Stiller's Directorial Shift – Stiller won't direct “Severance” Season 3 but remains executive producer.
Upcoming WWII Film – Directing “The Lost Airman,” about a downed airman in occupied France.
“Severance” Season 3 Status – Confirmed, no release date, production not started but moving forward.
New Directors Rising – Emmy-nominated Jessica Lee Gagné and others will helm episodes.
Stiller's Broader Projects – Also working on “Focker-In-Law,” a documentary, and an HBO dramedy.
Creative Reinvention – Stiller's shift highlights his evolving role in Hollywood's genre landscape.
