The Severance Podcast with Ben Stiller & Adam Scott
Episode: The Look of Severance (with Jeremy Hindle)
Release Date: August 14, 2025
Introduction
In this compelling episode of The Severance Podcast, hosts Ben Stiller and Adam Scott delve deep into the visual artistry behind the Emmy- and Peabody Award-winning TV show Severance. Joined by the show's Emmy-nominated production designer, Jeremy Hindle, the trio explores the intricate design choices, creative inspirations, and the emotional underpinnings that shape the show's distinctive aesthetic.
Guest Introduction: Jeremy Hindle
Ben and Adam warmly welcome Jeremy Hindle, highlighting his pivotal role in crafting the show's unique look. They reminisce about their first meeting at the Polo Lounge in the Beverly Hills Hotel, where initial ideas and sketches sparked a collaborative synergy essential for bringing Severance to life.
Ben Stiller [10:43]: “Jeremy, welcome to the show. I'm so glad you're here.”
Set Design Insights
Jeremy shares his background in commercial design, emphasizing how his 15-year experience creating elaborate commercials with renowned filmmakers like Alejandro González Iñárritu honed his ability to craft immersive worlds. This expertise translates seamlessly into Severance, where every set piece tells a story.
Jeremy Hindle [16:06]: “It's all about making every shot a story, every detail, every little pen. It's how my brain has been working for the last 20 years.”
Creative Challenges and Inspirations
The conversation shifts to the challenges of designing sets that are both familiar and unsettling. Jeremy discusses the deliberate choice of mid-century design elements to evoke a sense of nostalgia while maintaining a sterile, almost oppressive atmosphere that mirrors the show's themes.
Jeremy Hindle [24:28]: “The 60s had better taste. We went with the Kevin Roche and Eero Saarinen design philosophies to create beautiful, functional spaces that feel both familiar and alien.”
Specific Set Elements
A significant portion of the episode focuses on the development of key locations within the show, such as the wellness center and the MDR (Marketing Design Resource) floor. Jeremy highlights the meticulous process of selecting materials, colors, and architectural features that contribute to the show's eerie ambiance.
Ben Stiller [26:07]: “The ceiling is a little bit lower than it should be... it feels weird, but you wanted to play with negative space.”
Jeremy Hindle [27:05]: “We camera tested 26 whites to find the perfect hue that wouldn’t blow out or lose texture on camera.”
Emotional Impact of Design
Jeremy elaborates on how the set designs influence the actors' performances and the audience's emotional engagement. By creating spaces that are both aesthetically pleasing and subtly disturbing, the sets enhance the narrative's psychological depth.
Adam Scott [32:11]: “Walking into MDR pieced a lot together and ended up dictating a lot of character stuff. It's extraordinary.”
Jeremy Hindle [40:10]: “Designing emotionally and kinetically means making sure spaces feel real and can evoke specific emotions from both the actors and the viewers.”
Listener Questions and Insights
The hosts transition to listener questions, where Jeremy provides detailed responses about specific design choices and offers advice for aspiring production designers. Topics include the selection of unique furniture pieces, color theory, and the importance of storytelling through set design.
Listener Question [49:19]:
“Can you tell us more about the mid-century vanity in Gemma's room and the color theory behind the set design?”
Jeremy Hindle [49:48]:
“We use colors like blue and green because they are calming and natural. For special pieces, like the Chanel showroom chairs in Mr. Milchick’s office, we incorporate unique artifacts that elevate the set and add authenticity.”
Emotional and Practical Collaboration
Ben and Adam praise Jeremy’s ability to blend emotional nuance with practical design, ensuring that the sets not only look impressive but also serve the story's emotional beats. The collaborative dynamic between the production team is evident, fostering an environment where creativity thrives.
Jeremy Hindle [42:16]:
“We clicked in a way that emphasized the art over individual egos. Being able to openly critique and evolve designs made the creative process seamless.”
Conclusion
The episode wraps up with heartfelt exchanges and a glimpse into future projects. Jeremy’s passion for design and his collaborative spirit shine through, leaving listeners with a deeper appreciation for the meticulous craftsmanship behind Severance.
Ben Stiller [56:57]:
“It’s so much fun. Thanks, Jeremy.”
Adam Scott [58:28]:
“Thank you for listening.”
Notable Quotes
- Adam Scott [00:31]: “The best thing that really has been found to help mental health the most is therapy.”
- Jeremy Hindle [27:34]: “If you knew the rules, you wouldn’t do it.”
- Jeremy Hindle [24:28]: “Work life balance has become such an interesting thing... It was really attractive to them.”
Key Takeaways
- Collaborative Synergy: The initial meeting and ongoing collaboration between Ben, Adam, and Jeremy were crucial in establishing the show’s visual identity.
- Attention to Detail: Every element of the set, from ceiling heights to color choices, is meticulously crafted to evoke specific emotions and support the narrative.
- Emotional Storytelling: The design choices are deeply intertwined with character development and plot progression, enhancing the storytelling experience.
- Creative Freedom: Jeremy’s background in commercials provided the flexibility and creativity needed to innovate within the show's unique framework.
- Listener Engagement: The episode effectively bridges fan interest with behind-the-scenes insights, enriching the viewing experience for dedicated fans.
This episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the artistic process behind Severance, showcasing how thoughtful production design can elevate a show's impact and immerse audiences in its meticulously crafted world.