The second season ofSeverancewas a thrilling ride, unveiling more about the twisted workings of Lumon. While we patiently wait for the third season, you might be wondering what you’re going to fill the TV gap with.
Have no fear—this list of excellent shows is here to help.Severanceis unique, but these shows will scratch that itch until the time comes for Mark S. and his colleagues to return.
2020
1
8
Status
Ended (limited series)
Devswas created by Alex Garland, who you may know as the writer of28 Days Laterand the director ofEx Machina. In the show, software engineer Lily (Sonoya Mizuno) investigates her boyfriend’s sudden disappearance after he starts a new job at a strange tech firm led by Nick Offerman’s CEO Forest.
While it doesn’t have the dark humor ofSeverance, it’s an unsettling slow burn that will make you think. Plus it’s a limited series, so it tells a complete story, though you may not find the ending entirely satisfactory.
Hulu
Devs is creepy and intriguing, with a strong atmosphere and soundtrack.
2015 - 2019
4
45
Ended
You may know Rami Malek for portraying Freddie Mercury or a Bond villain, but he rose to prominence inMr. Robotas reclusive hacker Elliot. The sinister corporation of this show isn’t Lumon, but rather E Corp, and Elliot plans to use his computer skills to take them down.
Mr. Robotmakes for tense viewing and deals with some sensitive topics, but it does so effectively. It’s stylishly presented and, unlike most movies or shows involving computers, strives toportray technology and hacking accurately.
Amazon Prime Video
Mr. Robotis a show that demands your full attention, but it’s well worth your time.
2016 - 2022
36
InWestworld, humans can visit an expansive and realistic amusement park based on the Wild West. The park is inhabited by lifelike androids, on hand to help the guests fulfill their fantasies, who are programmed to not harm humans and periodically have their memories reset.
LikeSeverance,Westworldplays with the idea of self. While the first season is the best, in part thanks to the excitement of uncovering the world and its characters, it’s a gripping and twisty show throughout.
If you’ve ever wanted to live out your Wild West dreams,Westworldmight make you change your mind.
2023 - present
2
20
Ongoing
Since you already have an Apple TV+ subscription to streamSeverance, you should also check outSilo—it’s one ofthe best shows on Apple TV+. Both explore themes of imprisonment and control, and have unraveling mysteries.
The characters inSilolive deep underground, with the world outside in ruin. Rebecca Ferguson is excellent as Juliette, an engineer who will stop at nothing to discover the truth.
Apple TV+
Based on a book series,Silois a dystopian sci-fi that will keep you hooked.
2009 - 2015
7
126
Unlike the other shows on this list,Parks and Recreationisn’t dark or dramatic. Instead, it’s a funny and charming mockumentary about the odd workings of a government department and its employees (many of whom, like Aubrey Plaza and Chris Platt, have become big stars).
Parks and Recreationhas a shaky first season, despite a strong cast, and you may wonder where theSeverancelink comes in. The answer to that comes in the second season’s penultimate episode, with the arrival ofSeverancelead Adam Scott as state auditor Ben Wyatt (alongside Rob Lowe), and it’s here that the show hits its stride.
Peacock
Parks and Recreationis easy and fun viewing, with plenty of episodes to keep you entertained.
2011 - present
6
27
Black Mirroris an anthology series (meaning you can watch the episodes in any order) which explores the relationship that humans have with technology. It’s often set in the near-future, and doesn’t shy away from bleak endings.
If you’re unsure where to start, go with the episodeWhite Christmasstarring Jon Hamm and Rafe Spall.Severancecreator Dan Erickson has said that this episode influenced his show—you’ll understand how when you watch it.
Netflix
With the seventh season ofBlack Mirrorarriving soon, now is the perfect time to get into the show.
It’s unknown when season three ofSeverancewill arrive, but hopefully it comes quicker than the three-year gap between the first and second seasons. And remember, when working through this list, please attempt to enjoy each show equally.
