“Severance” Creator Dan Erickson Shares How John Turturro’s ‘Horrific and Ritualistic’ Watermelon Head Came to Life

The creator of the popular TV show ‘Severance’ recently shared insight into the creation of a particularly eerie and unsettling scene involving a watermelon bust. In a recent episode titled “Trojan’s Horse,” a character named Irving, played by John Turturro, meets a grim fate and is memorialised in an unconventional way.

The storyline unfolds as Irving is fired for a serious incident involving another character, Helena Eagan, played by Britt Lower. Following Irving’s departure, the MDR team at Lumon company, to which Irving belonged, is permitted to hold a somber ceremony in his honour. The manager, Mr. Milchick, decides to present the team with a watermelon bust resembling Irving’s face, a gesture that is met with confusion by his colleagues.

The show’s creator, Dan Erickson, revealed that the inspiration for the watermelon bust came from a random online search. Erickson shared that upon stumbling upon a disturbing carved melon image, he knew it was the perfect fit for the unsettling atmosphere he wanted to create in Lumon company. The decision to have Irving’s friends eat the watermelon head was described as “horrific and ritualistic,” in line with the themes of the show.

Erickson further explained that the appearance of the watermelon bust was intentionally made to resemble flesh, adding an extra layer of discomfort for the viewers. However, the practical aspects of having real fruit on set posed challenges, with the fruit’s high water content making it difficult to carve and maintain its appearance over time.

To overcome these challenges, the production crew opted to create a fake watermelon head using dense foam coated in paint and lacquer to achieve a realistic texture. This allowed for better preservation and control during filming, ensuring that the scene with the watermelon bust could be executed seamlessly.

The attention to detail in crafting the watermelon bust highlights the dedication of the production team to create a truly immersive and unsettling experience for the audience. Despite the initial struggles with using real fruit, the switch to a foam replica ultimately proved to be a practical and effective solution.

The realistic execution of the scene not only captivated viewers but also impressed the show’s creator, who admitted to momentarily questioning reality when faced with the lifelike prop. This dedication to authenticity and storytelling is a testament to the creativity and commitment of the team behind ‘Severance’ in bringing their unique vision to life on screen.

In conclusion, the incorporation of the watermelon head scene in ‘Severance’ showcases the creativity and attention to detail that goes into creating a compelling and immersive viewing experience for audiences. The revelation of the behind-the-scenes challenges and solutions adds another layer of appreciation for the effort and artistry involved in bringing this unsettling moment to life on screen.