“Adam Scott of ‘Severance’ Discusses Navigating Hollywood Fame and Family Life: ‘Every Challenge Has Its Moments'” | Entertainment & Arts News

Adam Scott discusses the challenges actors face in balancing work and personal life, especially when they are often away from loved ones for extended periods.

The 52-year-old actor, who is set to return for the second season of Severance, tells Sky News: “It’s difficult since we live in Los Angeles, while the show is filmed in New York. This means months and months away from home.”

It has been three years since the premiere of the Emmy-winning workplace thriller, which received widespread acclaim.

Scott portrays Mark Scout, a team leader specializing in microdata refinement at the enigmatic Lumon Industries.

The series blends sci-fi elements with a haunting workplace narrative, envisioning a reality where employees can opt for a surgical procedure known as severance to separate their consciousness into distinct professional and personal entities, referred to as “innie” and “outie”.

While Scott’s character has opted for the procedure for better time management, he has found a less drastic approach to maintaining work-life harmony.

Well-known for his role in Parks and Recreation, Scott also boasts a rich filmography, including projects like Big Little Lies and Party Down. Alongside his wife, Naomi Sablan, a TV and film producer, he co-founded their own production company, Gettin’ Rad Productions, in 2012.

He shares: “When I’m not filming the show, my wife and I work together. We manage a company that produces indie films and television, which is fantastic. We have an office we can go to, making it a great way to spend time together.”

The couple has two teenage children, son Graham, 18, and daughter Frankie, 16.

Scott adds: “My kids are teenagers now, so they can travel independently, which is wonderful. But it can be tough. We find a way to make it work; every challenge is part of the experience. We adapt.”

Completing the shooting of the second season has clearly alleviated some stress for him, and there are rumors of a third season in development.

Scott shares: “We wrapped filming the show nearly a year ago, so I’ve been home for quite some time. It’s always wonderful to be home.”

‘Just a little oppressive’

What was the experience like working in the stifling office environment of Lumon Industries, even if it was fictional?

Scott acknowledges that production designer Jeremy Hindle contributed significantly to setting the tone for the environment.

Recalling the immersive experience of stepping onto set, he explains: “In our office, the green carpets and fluorescent lights create a somewhat low ceiling that feels just a little off, lending a sense of oppression. Minor details like those from Ben [Stiller] and Jeremy [Hindle] inject life into the world when you’re there.”

“After spending 12 to 14 hours in that space, it’s not hard to evoke those feelings of unease.”

‘I like trying different stuff’

What about the series’ talented director, Ben Stiller?

Stiller, known for his comedic roles in films like Zoolander and Tropic Thunder, also serves as an executive producer and lead director for the show.

Scott shares that Stiller is one of his favorite directors to collaborate with.

“He has a deep understanding of actors, allowing him to communicate and relate effectively with them,” Scott notes.

He expresses a strong sense of trust in Stiller, saying: “It’s vital to have that trust with a director, knowing they recognize what works and won’t move on until they feel a scene is complete.”

A perfectionist at heart, Scott elaborates: “I’m always eager to try multiple takes and explore different approaches. But if Ben says, ‘We’ve got it,’ I trust him completely and am ready to proceed to the next scene.”

“I admire his filmmaking. He’s an extraordinary collaborator and truly a joy to work with.”

The second season of Severance, consisting of 10 episodes, will premiere globally on Apple TV+ on Friday, January 17, followed by weekly episodes each Friday.