Actor and producer Ben Stiller reveals the role played by Keanu Reeves in the second season of his hit Apple TV+ series 'Severance' was originally offered to former President Barack Obama.
- March 5, 2025
AceShowbiz - Former President Barack Obama passed up the chance to lend his voice to the animated Lumon Building in the hit Apple TV+ series "Severance". Actor and executive Producer Ben Stiller revealed the behind-the-scenes story on "Jimmy Kimmel Live!".
In an interview with Jimmy Kimmel, Stiller disclosed that he had approached former Obama for a unique opportunity to voice the "Lumon is Listening" video in the show's second season. However, Obama had to decline due to his hectic schedule.
"I didn't ask him in person, I knew someone who knew his lawyer and his lawyer said I can relay the request if you write an email," Stiller explained. "So I wrote an email to him saying like, 'Hey we have this show,' whatever. And like two days later, I get an email back from President Barack Obama."
In his reply, Obama expressed his admiration for the series, acknowledging that he was a "big fan of the show" and that he was eagerly awaiting the second season. Nevertheless, he had to turn down the offer, stating, "I don't think I have time in my schedule to make it happen."
Stiller humorously added, "I'm like, 'what's more important than doing the voice-over for the animated building in Severance?' " Despite his jest, Stiller admitted it was "pretty cool" that Obama responded, especially considering his demanding schedule.
The dream of having Obama appear in "Severance" isn't a new one. In 2022, executive producer Dan Erickson mentioned in an interview that he hoped to pitch a role to Obama at the Emmys. Erickson believed Obama would "bring some gravitas" to the series.
Since Obama could not participate, the role was handed over to Keanu Reeves, whom Stiller described as having "the most warm and inviting voice." Stiller praised Reeves' dedication, noting that the actor provided multiple takes for the production team to choose from.
"I don't know if when you see the building and you hear his voice, you necessarily think immediately that it's Keanu, but then I think you have this just innate feeling," Stiller observed.
Fans can catch "Severance" on Apple TV+, airing Thursdays at 9 p.m. ET. For more insights and behind-the-scenes stories, watch Ben Stiller's full discussion on "Jimmy Kimmel Live!"
