Apple has acquired full rights to its hit series "Severance" from Fifth Season in a $70 million deal, bringing the show under Apple Studios' direct control. The move transitions the psychological thriller from a licensed production to an in-house Apple property, following a pattern established with the sci-fi series "Silo" after its first season.

Apple's acquisition comes after a troubled second season that cost up to $20 million per episode and faced COVID-19 delays, Hollywood strikes, and extensive reshoots. Fifth Season reportedly sought financial advances and considered relocating production to Canada for better tax incentives. Apple executives determined that owning the series would help absorb lengthy production timelines while keeping filming in New York, where the show has established infrastructure.

The acquisition positions "Severance" as a long-term flagship franchise for Apple TV+. The show has already been renewed for a third season, with a fourth season considered certain. Creator Dan Erickson and executive producer Ben Stiller are open to expanding the universe through prequels, spinoffs, and international adaptations. Production on season three is tentatively set to begin this summer after all scripts are finalized, aiming to avoid the costly disruptions that plagued the previous season.