Kristina Roberts
Christopher Walken, the legendary actor known for his iconic roles in films like The Deer Hunter and Catch Me If You Can, recently shared a unique aspect of his life that sets him apart in the age of streaming. At 81 years old, Walken admitted during an appearance on Andy Cohen Live that he doesn’t use modern streaming services like Apple TV+ to watch his performances, including the popular show Severance, in which he stars. Instead, he relies on DVDs sent to him by the show’s team.
A Peek into Walken’s Viewing Habits
During the SiriusXM interview, Walken joined his Severance co-stars Adam Scott and Patricia Arquette, along with executive producer Ben Stiller, to discuss the second season of the show. While talking about his experience with the series, Walken revealed an interesting detail about his personal life. When host Andy Cohen asked him if he had watched all the episodes of Severance, Walken admitted, “Not all of them. I can’t. I don’t have the equipment.”
The actor further explained that he doesn’t use streaming devices or services at home, which is why the team sends him DVDs of the show. Walken added with his signature charm and wit, “I don’t have anything,” leaving the host amused.
Cohen’s reaction was one of admiration for Walken’s simplicity, saying, “I love you for that.” This brief interaction highlighted Walken’s old-school approach to entertainment in an increasingly digital world.
Walken’s Role in Severance
In Severance, Walken plays Burt Goodman, a retired employee of the fictional company Lumon Industries. His character is a “severed” worker, meaning his work memories and personal memories are kept completely separate. Burt’s storyline involves a touching relationship with a colleague, Irving Bailiff, portrayed by John Turturro. This subplot has been widely praised for its depth and emotional resonance, adding a layer of humanity to the show’s dark and mysterious narrative.
The series, which first premiered in 2022, has been a critical success. It won two Emmy Awards and was nominated in 14 categories for its debut season. The second season, which premiered on January 17, continues to delve deeper into the lives of the characters and the eerie world of Lumon Industries.
Behind-the-Scenes Stories
During the interview, Ben Stiller shared some fascinating stories about filming the second season of Severance. The cast and crew spent 186 days working on the new episodes, and despite the show’s dark themes, they found moments of joy and camaraderie on set.
One memorable experience was shooting an episode in the mountains. Stiller described the location as breathtaking and mentioned how the team held a wrap party at a roller rink to celebrate completing the episode. He also shared a touching moment from the final days of filming, where the cast watched a solar eclipse together outside a studio in the Bronx.
These anecdotes give fans a glimpse into the bond shared by the cast and crew, showing that even in the intense and suspenseful world of Severance, there’s room for fun and connection.
A Reflection of Walken’s Simplicity
Walken’s preference for DVDs over streaming reflects his grounded and straightforward lifestyle. In an era where most people have embraced the convenience of digital platforms, Walken remains loyal to the familiar and tangible medium of DVDs. This choice might seem unusual, but it perfectly aligns with the actor’s personality, which has always been marked by a blend of eccentricity and humility.
His resistance to modern technology is not new. Walken has often spoken about his simple approach to life, avoiding the distractions of smartphones, computers, and social media. For him, it’s about focusing on what truly matters, whether it’s his craft, his family, or his love for traditional ways of doing things.
The Legacy of Christopher Walken
With a career spanning over six decades, Christopher Walken has become a beloved figure in Hollywood. His performances are known for their intensity, uniqueness, and ability to leave a lasting impact on audiences. From his Oscar-winning role in The Deer Hunter to his memorable dance in Fatboy Slim’s “Weapon of Choice” music video, Walken has consistently proven his versatility as an actor.
His role in Severance is another testament to his ability to bring depth and nuance to his characters. Despite being part of a futuristic and thought-provoking show, Walken’s portrayal of Burt Goodman adds warmth and humanity, reminding viewers of the complexities of relationships and emotions.
