Severance Season 2: Tramell Tillman & Patricia Arquette Discuss Unraveling Origin Stories

Tramell Tillman and Patricia Arquette return to the enigmatic world of Severance in its highly anticipated second season. Portraying Mr. Milchick and Ms. Cobel, respectively, the duo navigates the complicated dynamics of Lumon’s severed floor—a setting that not only defines their characters but also pits them against each other in their corporate hierarchy. While Milchick serves as a supervisor, Ms. Cobel oversees operations, managing all severed employees beneath her authority.

For Tillman, this role marks a significant milestone in his career. Although the 39-year-old actor has built a foundation in film and television since 2015, his portrayal of Mr. Milchick in this series directed by Ben Stiller is his first as a series regular. Audiences can expect to see him transition to a feature role later this year in Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning. In contrast, Arquette boasts a rich legacy, with notable performances in celebrated films such as True Romance, Holes, and Boyhood.

As excitement builds for the premiere of Severance Season 2 on January 17 on Apple TV+, ScreenRant had the opportunity to sit down with Tillman and Arquette. Their discussion touched on themes of loyalty within Lumon, Cobel’s obsession with the character Mark S, portrayed by Adam Scott, and the evolving landscape of the company since its inception.

Understanding Mr. Milchick’s Loyalty to Lumon

Tramell Tillman as Milchick in Severance.

ScreenRant: Mr. Milchick exhibits remarkable loyalty to Lumon. Is this allegiance unconditional, or does he genuinely believe in the company’s ideologies?

Tramell Tillman: To me, it strikes a balance between both sides. His position grants him insight into Lumon’s operations; however, in most corporate environments, one is rarely privy to all information. What he knows about Lumon’s history, he has invested in, and he wholeheartedly believes in it. On the matters he lacks knowledge about, I think he’s at ease with his ignorance, trusting that he will learn when the time is right.

Patricia Arquette: And that highlights the inherent dangers of such a mindset.

Tramell Tillman: Exactly.

Patricia Arquette: Indoctrination can be incredibly potent.

The Significance of Ms. Cobel’s First Name

“Understanding her origin story unveils deeper meanings…”

Ms. Cobel sitting alone in a Lumon conference room at night in Severance season 2

ScreenRant: Patricia, your character’s name, Harmony, is intriguing, especially considering her operations. What does Harmony represent for you?

Patricia Arquette: To me, it’s reminiscent of fundamental ideals set forth by Kier. It’s an archaic term imbued with sentiment. Without divulging too much, I believe that the significance will unfold as we learn more about her background.

Exploring Mr. Milchick’s Dual Personas

“His tone varies significantly depending on the audience…”

Milchick from Severance engrossed in Ricken's book.

ScreenRant: Mr. Milchick adopts a range of tones in Season 2, leading to a more nuanced portrayal. What generates these distinctions?

Tramell Tillman: It all comes down to purpose and intention. He interacts with his ‘innies’ in a calm and reassuring manner to build trust. In contrast, his voice shifts when addressing superiors, such as Cobel, becoming more grounded and authoritative. There’s a distinct Lumon vernacular that he adeptly navigates.

Patricia Arquette: It’s fascinating because every character has underlying familial issues, and it’s as if their dynamic reflects those subconscious triggers.

Ms. Cobel’s Preoccupation with Mark S

“She is motivated by a grand purpose tied to Kier’s legacy…”

Adam Scott as Mark in Severance Season 2

ScreenRant: Patricia, your portrayal of Ms. Cobel reflects a deep commitment to Lumon’s objectives, particularly regarding Mark S. How do you balance this pursuit of Lumon’s mission with your character’s dedication to Mark’s personal growth?

Patricia Arquette: I see a split between Lumon’s aspirations and those of Kier. Harmony is ultimately devoted to Kier’s vision and its potential. She exhibits little interest in the new direction Lumon is taking, which creates tension as she strives to honor Kier’s legacy while facing opposition from current leadership.

Overview of Severance Season 2

In Severance, Mark Scout (Adam Scott) leads a team at Lumon Industries, wherein employees undergo a severance procedure that surgically separates their work memories from their personal lives. This radical approach to “work-life balance”is challenged when Mark finds himself entangled in a mysterious narrative, compelling him to confront the essence of his role—and himself. Season 2 sees Mark and his colleagues face harrowing repercussions as they test the limits of the severance divide.

This season is executive produced by Ben Stiller, who directs five episodes, alongside collaborators Uta Bresiewitz, Sam Donovan, and Jessica Lee Gagné. Created and written by Dan Erickson, the series also sees executive production from John Lesher, Jackie Cohn, Mark Friedman, Beau Willimon, Jordan Tappis, Caroline Baron, Richard Schwartz, and Nicholas Weinstock. In addition to their acting roles, Adam Scott and Patricia Arquette also serve as executive producers. The production is helmed by Fifth Season.