Surprising Severance Season 2 Theory: Why Helly Lies About Her Outie and the Dark Truth Behind Helena’s Identity

Warning: This article includes spoilers for episode 1 of Severance season 2.

As the much-anticipated Severance season 2 unfolds, fans are grappling with a compelling theory regarding Helly’s identity. After the shocking events of season 1’s finale, viewers are left questioning whether Helly is truly who she claims to be, particularly after she fabricates a story about her outie, Helena. With its intricate plotting and unexpected twists, season 2 promises to continue this trend. The conclusion of episode 1 teases a deeper narrative about Lumon’s Macrodata Refinement department, suggesting that the show is gearing up for more captivating revelations.

The last scene of episode 1 establishes a significant link between Mark’s work in MDR and his connection with Gemma. This development is intriguing, but early interactions involving Helly also warrant scrutiny as they could hint at a major twist down the line. While the unfolding story remains ambiguous, a popular theory suggests that one of the series’ most significant narrative details may have already been foreshadowed in the premiere episode.

Theory: Helly’s Outie Has Stealthily Replaced Her

Is Helena Only Pretending To Be Helly?

In the episode’s opening, Mark enthusiastically asks the board to reinstate his former colleagues, and to his surprise, they comply. This sets the stage for a reunion with Helly, Dylan, and Irving, despite the fallout from the Overtime Contingency incident that tarnished Lumon’s public image. However, beneath this seemingly optimistic return may lie a more sinister revelation: Helly could have never returned at all.

According to a widely-discussed theory, Helly may have been replaced by her outie, Helena, following the climactic events of season 1. If this theory holds true, it seems the show subtly incorporated hints about Helly’s true identity within episode 1.

Clues Indicating Helly’s Absence in Severance Season 2

Subtle Indicators That Helly Didn’t Return

A photo showing Helena (Britt Lower) in formal attire side by side with Helly (Lower) showing confusion. — Image courtesy of Simone Ashmoore

One of the first signs that raise questions about Helly’s identity is her initial reaction to Mark’s welcoming hug. Although Mark greets her warmly, Helly appears momentarily startled and hesitant, an unusual response considering their romantic kiss in season 1. This reaction amplifies suspicions around Helly’s true nature. The most alarming red flag arises when Helly fabricates a story regarding her experiences as an outie during the Overtime Contingency event.

When tasked with office duties, she struggles to locate the power switch on her computer, an oddity for someone accustomed to the environment. Instead of a plausible explanation, she concocts a far-fetched tale of a nighttime encounter with a gardener, which only fuels doubts regarding her identity. Additionally, during their conversation, she sows uncertainty in Mark’s mind about Gemma’s status within Lumon, subtly encouraging him to overlook his outie’s well-being.

Severance Key Facts Breakdown
Created By	Dan Erickson
Rotten Tomatoes Critics’ Score	97%
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score	83%
Streaming On	Apple TV+

Given Helena’s status as the daughter of Jame Eagan, CEO of Lumon, it raises questions over her keeping her innie in the dark after she publicly condemned their procedures. Furthermore, Helly exhibits a notable shift in her demeanor during season 2; the confident strut she previously displayed seems absent. In the closing moments of season 1, Ms. Cobel ominously tells Helly that “she’ll be long gone,”yet Mark and the others will endure suffering, reinforcing the notion that Helly’s presence may not be what it seems.

The Debate Surrounding the Helly/Helena Theory

Logical Counterarguments to the Theory

Despite the intrigue surrounding the idea of Helena replacing Helly, there are logical responses refuting this theory. For instance, Helly’s delayed reaction to Mark’s hug might stem from the emotional recovery she is undergoing post-outie experience, explaining her momentary confusion. Her assertive storytelling could be driven by a fear of judgment from her colleagues for her familial ties to Lumon’s leadership, which could jeopardize her credibility.

According to Lumon’s documented statements, it’s suggested that the outie desires the innie to confront the repercussions of their actions, emphasizing accountability. There’s also an underlying sense of shame that Helly may feel due to her outie’s prominent role in championing the severance process she opposes. Additionally, her stumble with the computer might simply reflect a learning curve given her current brief tenure in the MDR role, suggesting there could be deeper motivations at play regarding her outie’s intentions.

The emerging narrative hints that Helena may have strategically allowed her innie to return to face the ramifications of their prior deeds, emphasizing a theme of atonement and the psychological burden of their choices.

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