It’s been nearly three years since Severance made its debut on AppleTV+, captivating viewers with its chilling take on corporate life and memory manipulation. As the highly anticipated second season prepares to drop on January 17th, one of the standout stars, Tramell Tillman, reflects on his journey as Seth Milchick, the imposing supervisor at Lumon Industries. In an exclusive interview with Bleeding Cool, Tillman opens up about returning to his role, working with the creative team, and how the character of Milchick pushes him as an actor.
Season 2: A Long-Awaited Return
The long gap between seasons has fans eager for more, but for Tillman, the break didn’t feel like a hurdle. “It felt like a kid on Christmas Eve. I was ready to unwrap the gifts,” he says, describing his anticipation to dive back into the world of Severance. The actor admits that while there was excitement in returning, he also shared the collective curiosity about what would happen next in the show’s unpredictable narrative.
Working with Dan Erickson and the AppleTV+ Team
One of the highlights for Tillman has been the opportunity to work with Severance creator Dan Erickson and the team behind the series. According to Tillman, Erickson’s collaborative approach has been invaluable in bringing his character to life. “Dan is so collaborative and takes so much care in crafting this story and, more specifically, these characters,” Tillman notes. “This show is so character-driven, and it’s so important to have fully dimensional characters to elevate the story.”
Tillman praises AppleTV+ for its ongoing support, which he believes plays a key role in the show’s success. “Apple has always been supportive, ensuring we have everything we need. They were always there for us,” he shares, adding that this accessibility and care have helped the cast deliver strong performances.
A New Side to Acting with Milchick
Playing Seth Milchick, a character with a strict, controlled demeanor, has given Tillman the freedom to explore new dimensions in his craft. “Milchick is structured and regimented—from his diction, syntax, the way he walks, and the way he dresses,” Tillman explains. “When you have that level of structure, it allows me as an actor to play within a sandbox and craft the different levels of who this guy is. He’s a man who doesn’t shy away from his power and ability to manipulate.”
The role challenges Tillman to embody a character whose control over others is his main tool, an experience he finds both intriguing and rewarding.
Falling Back Into Character: The “Bike Ride” Experience
After a lengthy hiatus, stepping back into Milchick’s shoes might have seemed daunting, but for Tillman, it was more like riding a bike. “As soon as we started, I got back into the studio, walked down to the seventh floor, and walked in that maze. I was back at it,” he recalls. With the meticulous attention to detail that characterizes the show, including getting Milchick’s clothes and hairstyle just right, Tillman says the transition back into the role was seamless.
Reuniting with the Cast
The Severance cast has developed strong bonds over the years, making the return to set feel like a reunion of friends. Tillman describes working alongside co-stars like Adam Scott, Zach Cherry, Britt Lower, and others as an enjoyable and natural experience. “We all try to support one another, whether it’s sharing notes about a reality show we’re watching or celebrating life events like weddings or graduations,” he shares. “That connection is always there, and with that connection, we’re able to support one another to tell this story.”
Personal Connections to Milchick
While Milchick is a character driven by power and manipulation, Tillman finds some personal parallels with him. “I suffer from perfectionism, and I am a recovering ‘people pleaser,’” he admits. “To play a character like Milchick feels not completely like me, but there are elements of him I connect with.”
As Severance returns for its second season, fans can expect even more twists and intense character development, especially from Tillman’s portrayal of the enigmatic Milchick.
Severance, which also stars Michael Chernus, John Turturro, Christopher Walken, and Patricia Arquette, will return to AppleTV+ on January 17th.
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