Ben Stiller reveals Barack Obama turned down voice role in Severance season 2

Actor and producer Ben Stiller recently shared an interesting behind-the-scenes story about Severance Season 2. During an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Stiller revealed that he had tried to get Barack Obama to voice a character in the Apple TV+ series. However, the former U.S. President had to turn down the offer due to his busy schedule.
Stiller explained that he didn’t reach out to Obama directly but contacted someone who knew his lawyer. He was told that if he wrote an email, the lawyer could pass it along. Excited about the possibility, Stiller sent an email explaining the show and the role being offered.
According to Deadline, Stiller was surprised to receive a response from Obama himself just two days later. In his reply, Obama mentioned that he was a big fan of the show and was looking forward to the second season. However, he politely declined the opportunity, saying, “I don’t think I have time in my schedule to make it happen.”
Joking about the situation, Stiller told Kimmel, "What could be more important than voicing an animated building in Severance?" The role in question was for the “Lumon is Listening” video featured in the series, which would have been voiced by Obama if he had accepted. Eventually, the part went to Keanu Reeves, whose warm and familiar voice made a great fit for the role.
Stiller praised Reeves’ performance, saying that while viewers might not immediately recognize his voice, it creates a certain “innate feeling” that suits the show perfectly.
While fans may have missed the chance to hear Obama’s voice in Severance, the story highlights how much the former president enjoys the show.