Following "Doomsday Bunker," acquiring another independent IP: Apple (AAPL.US) secures $70 million for "Life Cutting Technique"

LootboxPhobia · 2026-02-12T06:24:18+00:00

Apple has acquired the intellectual property and worldwide rights to the sci-fi series "The Cutting Edge of Life" for approximately $70 million, transforming it into a fully owned in-house production. The move aims to enhance production control and flexibility while addressing the financial crisis of the original production company.

LootboxPhobia

2026-02-12 06:24:18

Abstract generation in progress

Bloomberg News reports that Apple Studios, the content production division of Apple Inc. (AAPL.US), has officially completed the acquisition of the intellectual property and global rights to the popular sci-fi series Severance. The deal is valued at approximately $70 million, marking a shift from the previous external production model where the series was licensed to independent studio Fifth Season (formerly Endeavor Content), to full in-house production owned entirely by Apple.

The series, starring Adam Scott and executive produced and primarily directed by Ben Stiller, was originally produced by Fifth Season, which faced financial pressures and rising production costs. Due to the global pandemic, Hollywood strikes, and increased financing interest rates, the cost per episode of the second season has soared to $20 million.

With this buyout, Apple not only alleviates the cash flow crisis faced by the original producer but also gains complete control over the future development of the brand, allowing for more flexible allocation of funds to support subsequent high-budget productions.

Apple has previously acquired several other well-known series for its Apple TV+ streaming platform, including Silo, produced by AMC Studios.

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