‘Severance’ Star Patricia Arquette Explores Cobel’s Mindset and Season 1 Cliffhanger: “This is Such a Strange World”

After an almost three-year hiatus, the critically acclaimed series Severance makes its much-anticipated return. Patricia Arquette, who garnered an Emmy nomination for her role as the controlling manager Harmony Cobel, shared her thoughts with The Mary Sue regarding the unresolved tension from the first season’s cliffhanger.

Upon its debut in 2022, Severance captivated audiences by prompting deep reflections on the complexities of work-life balance. While fans had to wait an extended period for the second season, many agree that the long wait was worthwhile. Arquette reprises her role as Cobel, now grappling with her loyalties to the enigmatic company Lumon.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4frYYFPsxvk

Patricia Arquette on being Adam Scott's neighbor and the mystery of 'Severance' season 2 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4frYYFPsxvk)

Reflecting on the impact of the season one finale, Arquette acknowledged the multitude of possibilities facing her character, revealing, “At that moment, towards the end, there’s such a wide-open thing where all of these different things could be happening… it’s nice that those things start to kind of reveal themselves.” This insight into the creative discussions with writers and directors highlights the show’s intricate narrative planning.

Exploring New Dynamics

As season two unfolds, Cobel’s journey evolves from suspension to outright dismissal, placing her in unfamiliar territory within the highly loyal corporate environment. Arquette described Cobel’s predicament: “I think Cobel is in such a strange place that she’s never been in this loss of power.” Despite her dismissal from Lumon, Cobel’s story is far from over.

In the second episode, viewers encounter Cobel as Mark Scout’s neighbor, Mrs. Selvig. However, the episode’s title, “Goodbye, Mrs. Selvig,” raises questions about her continued presence. Arquette elaborated on Cobel’s emotional state, stating, “She’s frustrated, she’s angry at Lumon, she’s angry that this has all come out, and she doesn’t know what her future holds.” This uncertainty resonates deeply with audiences and reflects a significant aspect of Severance‘s allure, despite causing occasional frustration among fans, including the musician SZA.

The series is known for its gradual unraveling of mysteries, leading audiences through a labyrinth of intrigue and hidden motives. Arquette emphasizes this complexity, noting, “There are so many characters in this and so many new things start happening this season… There are many layers of need-to-know, who needs to know what.” The evolution of the plot highlights the uncertain dynamics at play, adding depth to the storytelling.

“It’s interesting this season that the first season was so claustrophobic and interior, and this season, as it goes on, we become more exterior… the ‘innies’ are having more grown-up conflict within themselves, there is a maturation going on inside and a loss of innocence that I think is interesting.”

The first episode of Severance season two is available for streaming on Apple TV+, with new episodes launching every Thursday, promising more twists and revelations for eager fans.

Source & Images