You Won’t Believe Who the Best Character in ‘Severance’ Is!

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Warning: The following contains spoilers for Severance Seasons 1 and 2

The drama series “Severance” undeniably boasts an array of fascinating characters, such as Mark S., played by Adam Scott, and his colleagues from MDR, along with the enigmatic Ms. Cobel, portrayed by Patricia Arquette, and the intimidatingly cheerful Mr. Milchick, acted by Tramell Tillman. Dan Erickson and his team of writers have skillfully created a cast that keeps viewers hooked episode after episode. Ultimately, the captivating puzzles woven throughout the show would lose their allure if the audience didn’t empathize with the characters navigating them.

Most fans of the series Severance are undoubtedly partial to a specific character, whether to cheer for or against them, and the second season has provided additional insights into their lives beyond Lumon Industries. However, among all characters, Helly R., played by Britt Lower, also known as Helena Eagan in the outside world, captures particular attention due to her intriguing background as a member of the enigmatic Eagan family who established Lumon and the surrounding town. The second episode, titled “Goodbye, Mrs. Selvig,” offers viewers their most extensive glimpse yet into her life beyond the severed floor, setting up an enticing struggle between Innie (Inner Helena) and Outie (Outer Helena).

Helena vs. Helly

At this juncture in the series, Mark’s Innie (inside self) and Outie (outside self) appear remarkably aligned, with the Outie investigating Lumon’s questionable activities and the Innie attempting to dismantle it from within. However, Helly presents a unique case. We are introduced to Helena at the end of Season 1, coincidentally when the Innies initiate the “Overtime Contingency,” which allows them to awaken in the external world. Fortuitously, this event takes place as Helena is about to step onstage for a speech regarding her severance experience, providing an ideal platform for her to reveal the genuine nature of life on the severed floor.

In the second installment, we delve deeper into Helena Eagan’s character, revealing a stark contrast between her Outie and her Innie. As a dedicated follower of her family’s mission, my exterior self exudes a chilly, strategic composure, hiding any remnants of the defiant spirit that resides within my severed half. After the incident, it became necessary for me to undergo the process of separation, and while it’s uncertain if this decision was entirely mine, thus far there’s been scant evidence suggesting I am anything but a true Eagan.

The situation inside the series could lead to a lot of intriguing drama, as Innie Helly appears bent on creating trouble for Lumon from within, especially since learning about her Outie’s true nature. Essentially, Helena lacks the ability to stop Helly while she’s on the separated floor, and Helly shows no signs of wanting to return things to their original state. It remains unclear why Helly chose not to disclose her experiences outside to her colleagues, but it seems to be a worst-case scenario for her. Her Outie is an advocate for severance and is connected to the family that developed it. This revelation appears to have only strengthened Helly’s resolve to disrupt the status quo.

Inner and Outer Selves

Helly/Helena’s narrative mirrors one of Severance’s central ideas: identity, and what constitutes a person. The Outies and Innies represent two separate minds occupying a single body, but this doesn’t automatically equate to sameness. This duality is established in the early walk-and-talk scene between Mark and Helly in episode one, where they debate on how to handle Miss Casey, who Mark discovered is actually his Outie’s deceased spouse, Gemma. While Mark’s Innie harbors no personal affections for Miss Casey, he still wishes to locate her to please his Outie because they are, in a way, connected but distinct individuals. However, Helly challenges this notion, asserting that the Innies owe nothing to those from their exterior lives.

As a captivated observer, I find it compelling how Helly distinguishes her Innie and Outie personas, a distinction that in her case, appears undeniably valid. With an intimate understanding of who her Outie represents and what she symbolizes, Helly perceives no shared identity with someone who embodies her polar opposite. This intriguing dichotomy lends depth to her character, making it clear that she has the most to lose in this scenario. She remains resolute in her struggle, even aware of her Outie’s potential to erase her existence at any moment. While all Innies are subject to their Outies’ will, Helena seems the most susceptible to concluding her journey on the severed floor if circumstances demand it.

Apart from being an exceptionally captivating television mystery series, Severance stands out for having one of the deepest and most intellectually stimulating narratives on screen, as well as one of the strongest ensembles. So far in this second season, Erickson and his team have been crafting their most intriguing dilemma through a single character’s internal struggle.

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2025-02-02 22:32