On August 16, 2025, attendees at the Cinespia screening of the 2001 comedy Zoolander at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery were treated to an unexpected and delightful surprise. The event, initially anticipated as a straightforward showing of the classic film, transformed into a memorable evening that seamlessly blended nostalgia with contemporary television culture.
As the audience settled in, Cinespia founder John Wyatt took the stage to introduce the film. To the crowd’s delight, he welcomed Ben Stiller, who appeared in character as the iconic male model, Derek Zoolander. Embracing his role, Stiller humorously thanked the audience for attending what he jokingly referred to as the nine-year anniversary screening of ‘Zoolander 2,’ before quickly correcting himself, eliciting laughter from the crowd.
The evening took an unexpected turn when Tramell Tillman, known for his portrayal of Seth Milchick in the Apple TV+ series Severance, made a surprise entrance from the opposite side of the stage. Accompanying him was the University of Southern California (USC) marching band, a nod to a memorable scene from the show’s second season finale. This unexpected crossover between the comedic world of Zoolander and the enigmatic universe of Severance captivated the audience.
Stiller, momentarily taken aback, introduced Tillman and the band, commenting, This is kind of more like a ‘Zoolander’ thing than a ‘Severance’ thing. Seizing the moment, he requested a song more fitting for the film. Responding with enthusiasm, Tillman signaled the band, which then launched into a rendition of Relax by Powerman 5000, a track famously featured in Zoolander. The performance energized the crowd, setting a lively tone for the evening.
This surprise appearance is part of a series of innovative promotional efforts for Severance, a show that has garnered significant acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. The series has been a standout success for Apple TV+, dominating the 2025 Emmy Awards nominations with a total of 27 nods. Such recognition underscores the show’s impact and the growing influence of Apple TV+ in the streaming landscape.
The collaboration between Stiller and Tillman at the Zoolander screening highlights the creative promotional strategies employed to engage audiences and generate buzz. This event is reminiscent of previous promotional stunts for Severance, such as the pop-up glass office at New York’s Grand Central Terminal in January 2025. During this event, cast members, including Adam Scott, Britt Lower, and Zach Cherry, performed in character within a replica of their on-screen office, captivating commuters and passersby. The performance was described by AdWeek as dystopian performance art and an eerie stunt, reflecting the show’s unique blend of corporate satire and psychological drama.
The success of Severance can be attributed to its compelling narrative, which delves into the concept of separating work and personal memories through a controversial procedure. This thought-provoking premise has resonated with viewers, sparking discussions about work-life balance and corporate ethics. The show’s ability to blend suspense, humor, and social commentary has set it apart in the crowded streaming market.
Ben Stiller, serving as an executive producer and director for Severance, has played a pivotal role in shaping the show’s vision. His collaboration with Apple TV+ has been marked by creative freedom and mutual respect. In a discussion at the SXSW festival, Stiller expressed appreciation for Apple’s hands-off approach, stating, I’ve never once ever gotten any note or anything from Apple about anything we do. I think we were lucky in that when we started out, you guys gave us a lot of creative freedom. This partnership has allowed the creative team to explore bold storytelling choices, contributing to the show’s critical and commercial success.
Looking ahead, fans of Severance have much to anticipate. A third season has been confirmed, promising to delve deeper into the mysteries of Lumon Industries and the lives of its employees. Additionally, discussions about potential spin-offs and merchandise indicate the show’s expanding universe and its potential to become a lasting franchise. Stiller has hinted at two potential spin-off concepts, though details remain under wraps. The prospect of a Severance video game has also been floated, suggesting a multi-platform expansion of the series’ narrative.
The surprise performance at the Zoolander screening exemplifies the innovative promotional tactics that have become synonymous with Severance. By merging elements from different facets of popular culture, the event not only entertained but also reinforced the show’s presence in the public consciousness. Such creative endeavors reflect a broader trend in entertainment marketing, where immersive and unexpected experiences are crafted to engage audiences beyond traditional advertising methods.
As Severance continues to captivate viewers and garner accolades, its influence extends beyond the screen. The show’s exploration of identity, memory, and corporate culture resonates in today’s society, prompting reflection and conversation. With a dedicated creative team and a supportive platform in Apple TV+, Severance is poised to remain a significant player in the evolving landscape of television storytelling.
