Ranking the 10 Best Ben Stiller Roles in Severance

Overview of Ben Stiller’s Career

Ben Stiller’s multifaceted career encompasses iconic comedy films like Zoolander and dramatic works such as Severance.
With his ability to embody both comedic protagonists and antagonistic roles, Stiller demonstrates significant versatility in the film industry.
Through unforgettable characters like Derek Zoolander and White Goodman, he has firmly established himself as a comedic icon in Hollywood.

The conclusion of Severance season 1 left audiences eager for more, further solidifying the show’s reputation as a standout in contemporary television. Stiller, while not appearing in the cast, anchors the series as its leading director, bringing his unique vision to this gripping narrative about Mark Scout and his colleagues as they unearth the unsettling secrets within Lumon. As the stakes rise, the tension between their work personas and real lives deepens, leading into a season filled with intrigue and discord.

Ben Stiller’s journey in the entertainment industry is remarkable, marked by a diverse array of notable performances. His evolution from a comedic lead in high-budget films to a celebrated director showcases his exceptional talent and dedication to his craft.

10 Larry Daley — Night at the Museum (2006)

The Voice of Reason in a Fun Fantasy Setting

Stiller stars as Larry Daley in Night at the Museum, where he brings a whimsical yet grounded element to the film, which has since birthed a trilogy. As a night security guard at a museum in New York, he finds himself in an extraordinary situation where exhibits come to life after dark, leading to an amusing series of events that reveal Larry’s potential.

9 Greg Focker — Meet the Parents (2000)

A Love-Hate Relationship with Potential Father-in-Law

Stiller’s portrayal of Greg Focker opposite the legendary Robert De Niro marked a milestone in his comedic career. As Greg navigates a series of humorous misadventures while attempting to win over his girlfriend’s stern father, the film’s quintessential comedy moments explore themes of love, anxiety, and family dynamics.

8 Hal — Happy Gilmore (1996)

Memorable Comedic Cameo

Though a minor role in Happy Gilmore, Stiller’s character, Hal, becomes unforgettable. His quirky portrayal as a care home attendant adds a layer of humor to this cult classic, where Happy, played by Adam Sandler, navigates his way through professional golf while battling comedic challenges.

7 Chas Tenenbaum — The Royal Tenenbaums (2001)

Excellence in Ensemble Drama

In Wes Anderson’s The Royal Tenenbaums, Stiller shines as Chas Tenenbaum, a once-promising prodigy who becomes increasingly paranoid after personal tragedies. This intriguing exploration of family and failure showcases Stiller’s ability to balance comedy with deeper emotional layers against an impressive cast.

6 Tony Perkis/Tony Perkis Sr.— Heavyweights (1995)

An Underrated Performance as a Fitness Guru

Stiller’s role in Heavyweights might not often make the headlines, but his over-the-top portrayal of Tony Perkis, a madcap fitness instructor, is both hilarious and memorable. The film follows a group of kids at a weight-loss camp, and Stiller’s antics become central to the film’s charm and humor, enhancing its overall narrative.

5 Ted Stroehmann — There’s Something About Mary (1998)

Rom-Com Quest for True Love

Stiller gained further acclaim with his role as Ted Stroehmann in There’s Something About Mary. His comical yet earnest pursuit of his high school sweetheart reflects the film’s blend of outrageous humor and heartfelt emotion, solidifying Stiller’s status as a top-tier comedic actor.

4 Tugg Speedman — Tropic Thunder (2008)

Chaos in a Star-Studded Comedy

Tropic Thunder features Stiller as Tugg Speedman, an action star whose film production spirals out of control during shooting in Vietnam. The absurdity of the storyline, combined with Stiller’s performance, critiques Hollywood egos while delivering laugh-out-loud moments against a backdrop of satire and action.

3 Walter Mitty — The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)

An Ordinary Man’s Extraordinary Journey

In The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, Stiller takes on both directing and lead acting roles, in a story that follows a timid magazine employee. As he embarks on a journey filled with adventure, his character’s evolution from mundane to magnificent reflects a universal quest for purpose and excitement in life, resonating deeply with viewers.

2 White Goodman — Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story (2004)

A Comedic Villain in Sports

This role marked Stiller’s venture into villainy through his portrayal of White Goodman in Dodgeball. The film’s comedic rivalry and competitions culminate in an adrenaline-filled dodgeball tournament, making Stiller’s character a memorable antagonist within the genre.

1 Derek Zoolander — Zoolander (2001)

The Iconic Model in a Fashion-Forward Comedy

Forever etched in pop culture, Stiller’s performance as Derek Zoolander in Zoolander is a celebration of fashion and parody, marking him as a quintessential comic leading man. The film’s humorous take on the modeling industry, coupled with its memorable quotes and scenes, ensures Zoolander’s legacy endures, creating a cultural impact that remains relevant, even inspiring a sequel.

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