Severance, the critically acclaimed Apple TV+ series, is hurtling towards its highly anticipated season finale, and the anticipation among its dedicated fanbase, including the writers at io9, has reached fever pitch. The internet is ablaze with theories, dissecting every subtle clue and enigmatic plot point, ranging from speculation about the mysterious Cold Harbor to the complex dynamics of the Mark/Mark S./Helly/Gemma quartet, not to mention the utterly perplexing purpose of those elusive goats.
However, amidst all the swirling theories and unanswered questions, the penultimate episode of season two, titled "The After Hours," offered some semblance of resolution, solidifying certain plot threads and character arcs. Yet, in the unsettling world of Severance, the notion of definitive closure remains perpetually elusive. As the show has repeatedly demonstrated, nothing is ever truly settled, and every answer only seems to spawn a fresh wave of questions.
A particularly poignant moment in "The After Hours" involved Irving, played with exceptional nuance by John Turturro, making a bold decision to abandon his life at Lumon and embark on an uncertain journey. Escaping Kier and the oppressive environment of the company, Irving boarded a train with his beloved dog, Radar, leaving behind the meticulously constructed reality of his severed existence.
This dramatic escape was facilitated by none other than Burt, portrayed by Christopher Walken. The relationship between Irving and Burt blossomed during their time as innies, developing into a tender and unexpected workplace romance. The chemistry between the two characters was palpable, adding an element of genuine warmth to the otherwise sterile and unsettling world of Lumon.
Later, when Irving and Burt encountered each other as their outie selves, they discovered that the attraction transcended the confines of their severed identities. The connection they shared as innies resonated in their outie lives, suggesting a deeper, more profound bond that defied the artificial boundaries imposed by Lumon.
However, the situation was further complicated by the fact that Burt was already in a committed relationship, having been married to his husband for decades. This revelation introduced a layer of complexity to their burgeoning relationship, raising questions about loyalty, commitment, and the very nature of love.
Furthermore, it was revealed that Burt maintained ties to Lumon in a capacity that appeared far more malevolent than his role as the seemingly benign head of Optics and Design. This discovery cast a shadow of doubt over Burt’s true intentions, raising concerns that he might be manipulating Irving for some nefarious purpose.
As Burt drove Irving and Radar, the audience was left to wonder whether they were being led to a dark and sinister fate, a grim scenario reminiscent of the infamous events in The Sopranos. However, in a surprising turn of events, Burt instead purchased a train ticket for Irving and offered a gentle warning, urging him never to return to Kier or Lumon.
The farewell between Irving and Burt was deeply moving, marked by a palpable sense of mutual affection and regret. Both men acknowledged the depth of their feelings for each other, but ultimately chose to set them aside, recognizing the insurmountable obstacles that stood in the way of their relationship.
With Irving now effectively in exile, the burning question among fans is whether this will be the last we see of the character. Irving has consistently served as the emotional anchor of the show, providing moments of genuine vulnerability and compassion amidst the prevailing sense of unease and paranoia.
Moreover, Irving’s unwavering commitment to truth and justice has made him a valuable counterweight to the manipulative tactics and corporate doublespeak that permeate Lumon. He is unafraid to call bullshit, a quality that is sorely needed in an environment where deception and control are the order of the day.
John Turturro himself has expressed his dissatisfaction with the notion that the train scene represents the definitive end of Irving’s story. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Turturro stated, "If someone wanted the story to be complete? It could be! But I think there’s so much more here." He went on to suggest that there are still many unexplored facets of Irving’s character and backstory that deserve further exploration.
Turturro hinted at the deeper motivations that drive Irving, emphasizing that his actions are not arbitrary or without purpose. "Irving knows a lot that you don’t know. There’s a big reason why he’s making all those paintings, you know? All that he’s searching for."
He also highlighted the fact that each severed employee at Lumon has their own unique reasons for undergoing the procedure, suggesting that Irving’s motivations may be more complex and multifaceted than initially apparent. "Everyone gets severed on this show for different reasons. Grief, maybe they’re lost, maybe they’re the daughter of the owner. Maybe it’s also searching for someone, too," Turturro explained.
With only one episode remaining in Severance season two, the anticipation is reaching fever pitch. While Apple TV+ has yet to officially confirm a third season, the critical acclaim and devoted fanbase surrounding the show suggest that a renewal is highly probable.
Whether Irving will return in a potential third season remains uncertain, but the prospect of delving deeper into his character and uncovering the secrets of his past is undoubtedly appealing. Turturro’s recent comments have injected a fresh wave of hope among fans who are eager to see more of Irving and learn the truth behind his mysterious paintings and hidden motivations. The emotional core of the show could use this level of intrigue again.
