In the latest dose of Hollywood drama, Ben Stiller has let slip that he tried to snag Barack Obama as a voice in the cult-hit series “Severance”. Yes, the former president flirted with the idea of joining the Apple TV+ company, but alas! Scheduling conflicts stood in the way, like the ultimate villain in a rom-com.

So, what’s the premise of “Severance”? It’s all about Lumon Industries, where employees undergo a mind-bending procedure that separates their memories of work and personal life. Sounds like a dream for everyone clinging to mental sanity while navigating a corporate jungle!

During an episode of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” this week, Stiller, who moonlights as the executive producer and director of the series, recounted his failed bid to recruit Obama for an animated role. You know, nothing says “corporate training video” like a little Obama doll telling you to stay productive while exploring the dark humor of office life.

Stiller sent an email through Obama’s lawyer, leading to a personal response from none other than the man himself. In classic Obama fashion, he graced Stiller with a friendly yet firm, “Thanks, but no thanks”. Apparently, even a voice role in a show loved by the former Commander-in-Chief couldn’t compete with the real-life responsibilities of post-presidency. I mean, can’t he just pencil in voicing animated characters between global summits?

Stiller jokingly lamented, “C’mon, what’s more important than doing the voice for the animated building in ‘Severance?’” Never one to miss an opportunity, Stiller pivoted to Hollywood’s golden boy, Keanu Reeves, to fill the role. He praised Reeves for bringing warmth and seriousness to the character. Probably because he’s too Zen to get caught up in the shenanigans of the modern world.

“Severance” has captivated viewers with its unique blend of dark humor and existential dread about the 9-to-5 grind. It has emerged as a chilling reflection of what many face in today’s corporate landscape. Perhaps if Obama took that role, he could have utilized a voice of reason to help us navigate the madness of corporate America.

So, while Obama may have turned down the chance to get animated, let’s hold out hope for a collaboration in the future. After all, life has a funny way of full circling, right? Let’s just take a moment to appreciate that even presidents can get sidetracked by busy schedules and corporate America’s voice roles.