In a recent revelation, actor and producer Ben Stiller shared that former U.S. President Barack Obama declined an offer to voice a cameo in the popular Apple TV+ series, “Severance.” The role was ultimately taken on by Keanu Reeves.

Stiller, who is the executive producer and main director of the critically acclaimed series, appeared on the March 3, 2025 episode of “Jimmy Kimmel Live.” During the show, he confirmed that Reeves was the unaccredited voice of the animated Lumon building in the “Lumon is Listening” sequence, featured in the Season 2 premiere.

Kimmel inquired about the fan suspicion that the voice was Reeves, prompting Stiller to not only confirm the casting but also disclose that his initial choice for the role was Obama.

“There was one person that I asked before him and he said no,” Stiller stated during the interview. “That person was President Barack Obama.”

Stiller clarified that he did not reach out to Obama directly, but rather communicated the request through the appropriate channels, sending an email via his lawyer.

Stiller was surprised to receive a personal response from the former president within a couple of days. Obama’s email read, “Hey Ben, big fan of the show, love Season 1, can’t wait for Season 2. I don’t think I have time in my schedule to make this happen.”

The request coincided with a busy period for Obama, as filming for the show’s second season began in October 2022, when he was heavily involved in the midterm elections campaign. Throughout 2023, the former president also worked on various projects for Netflix and Spotify through Higher Ground, a production company he founded with his wife, Michelle.

Following Obama’s polite decline, Stiller turned to Reeves, who agreed to voice the Lumon office building in the propaganda video. According to Stiller, Reeves, already a fan of the show, took on the role with his usual professionalism.

Reeves was chosen for the role due to his “warm and inviting voice,” which was deemed ideal for the propaganda video, aimed at reassuring the characters within the show. The tranquil, comforting quality of Reeves’ narration presents an effective contrast to the company’s ominous messaging.

“Severance” is one of the most-watched and critically acclaimed series on Apple TV+ since its debut. The show, starring Adam Scott as Mark Scout, an employee at the enigmatic Lumon Industries, explores the concept of “severance,” a surgical procedure separating work and personal life memories. The series combines elements of workplace comedy, psychological thriller, and science fiction.

Interestingly, Stiller had to strongly advocate for Scott’s casting. Despite Scott being primarily known for comedic roles in shows like “Parks and Recreation,” Stiller believed his background could effectively balance the show’s comedy and drama elements.

The ongoing second season of “Severance” further explores the show’s intricate mythology and complex characters. Although Obama did not join the cast, his acknowledgement of being a fan of the series underscores its wide-ranging appeal and cultural influence.