The 12 Essential Adam Scott Movies And Shows You Need To Watch (And His Shocking New Horror Role)

Adam Scott has cemented his status as one of Hollywood's most versatile and compelling actors, seamlessly transitioning between neurotic comedy, sharp satire, and psychological thriller. As of late December 2025, his career is experiencing a massive resurgence, propelled by an Emmy-nominated performance in a critically acclaimed sci-fi series and a slate of highly anticipated upcoming projects.

This deep dive explores the complete career arc of the man who gave us the beloved Ben Wyatt, detailing his most iconic performances and providing fresh, unique details on his latest ventures, including a much-awaited second season of his groundbreaking television show and a surprising lead role in a new supernatural horror film.

Adam Scott: A Quick Biography and Essential Filmography Profile

Born on April 3, 1973, in Santa Cruz, California, Adam Paul Scott began his career with a knack for playing smarmy, yet ultimately endearing, characters. While he spent years building a solid filmography, his true breakthrough into mainstream stardom came through television. He is not just an actor; Scott is also an accomplished producer, director, and podcaster, demonstrating a comprehensive commitment to the entertainment industry. His ability to balance dramatic gravitas with comedic timing is the hallmark of his enduring appeal.

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Key Biographical Details

• Full Name: Adam Paul Scott
• Born: April 3, 1973 (Age 52 as of late 2025)
• Birthplace: Santa Cruz, California, U.S.
• Occupation: Actor, Comedian, Producer, Director, Podcaster
• Best Known Roles: Ben Wyatt (Parks and Recreation), Mark Scout (Severance), Henry Pollard (Party Down)
• Notable Accolades: Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series (Severance)

Selected Filmography Highlights (2004–2025)

Adam Scott’s career spans decades, featuring roles in both independent films and major Hollywood productions, showcasing his range from dark comedy to intense drama.

• Severance (TV Series, 2022–2025): Mark Scout (Protagonist, Emmy-nominated role)
• Madame Web (Film, 2024): Ben Parker (Supporting role in the Marvel universe)
• Party Down (TV Series, 2009–2010, 2023): Henry Pollard (Lead role, also Executive Producer)
• Loot (TV Series, 2022): John Novak (Recurring role)
• Parks and Recreation (TV Series, 2010–2015): Ben Wyatt (Main Cast)
• The Aviator (Film, 2004): Johnny Meyer
• Step Brothers (Film, 2008): Derek Huff (Iconic comedic role)
• Black Mass (Film, 2015): FBI Agent Robert Fitzpatrick
• Hot Tub Time Machine 2 (Film, 2015): Adam Jr.
• Little Evil (Film, 2017): Gary Bloom
• Flower (Film, 2017): Will
• Other People (Film, 2016): Producer only
• Upcoming: Hokum (Film, Expected 2026): Lead Role (Horror)

The Must-Watch Adam Scott TV Shows: From Comedy to Sci-Fi Thriller

While his film roles are notable, Adam Scott truly shines on the small screen, where he has delivered two of the most iconic and critically discussed performances of the last two decades. These television series form the core of his topical authority.

The Enduring Charm of Ben Wyatt in Parks and Recreation

For many fans, Adam Scott is synonymous with Ben Wyatt, the socially awkward but brilliant auditor who falls in love with Leslie Knope. Joining the show in its second season, Scott’s character brought a necessary grounding and romantic element to the zany world of Pawnee. Ben Wyatt’s journey from a "human disaster" who bankrupted a town to a successful city manager and loving husband is a masterclass in character development. His comedic timing, particularly his reactions to the absurdities around him, made him an instant fan favorite and a benchmark for modern sitcom characters.

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The Psychological Depth of Mark Scout in Severance

The role of Mark Scout in the Apple TV+ psychological thriller Severance completely redefined Scott’s career, earning him his first Emmy nomination. The series follows employees at Lumon Industries who undergo a procedure to 'sever' their memories, separating their work life ('Innie') from their personal life ('Outie'). Scott’s dual performance as the grief-stricken 'Outie' Mark and the quietly rebellious 'Innie' Mark is a tour-de-force. The show’s high-concept premise and stunning execution have made it one of the most talked-about sci-fi series of the decade.

Severance Season 2: What We Know for 2025

The highly anticipated Severance Season 2 is expected to premiere in 2025, promising to pick up immediately after the explosive cliffhanger of the first season. The new season is set to delve deeper into the complex mythology of Lumon Industries and the nature of the severance procedure itself. Central to the plot will be Mark Scout’s mission to save his wife, Gemma (who is revealed to be his co-worker, Ms. Casey), and the fallout from the 'Innies' gaining control of their 'Outie' lives. Fans should prepare for more mind-bending twists and a deeper exploration of Mark and Gemma's troubled past.

Adam Scott's Evolving Film Career: Recent and Upcoming Projects That Demand Attention

Beyond his television success, Adam Scott has consistently worked in film, often choosing projects that challenge audience expectations. His recent and upcoming movie roles highlight his commitment to genre-bending storytelling, from superhero flicks to spine-chilling supernatural horror.

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The Surprising Turn in Madame Web (2024)

In 2024, Scott joined the Marvel universe in the film Madame Web, playing the role of Ben Parker. This casting was significant, placing him within a major comic-book franchise and showcasing his ability to take on high-profile, supporting roles. While the film had mixed reviews, Scott's presence added a familiar and grounded element to the story, further diversifying his already impressive filmography.

Hokum: A Leap into Supernatural Horror (Expected 2026)

Perhaps Scott’s most intriguing upcoming project is the supernatural horror film Hokum. This role represents a significant departure from his established comedic and sci-fi personas, a move that is generating considerable buzz among fans and critics.

The plot synopsis for Hokum reveals Scott will star as a reclusive novelist who travels to a remote Irish inn to scatter his parents' ashes. He soon discovers the inn is rumored to be haunted by a witch, plunging him into a terrifying, isolated ordeal. Directed by Damian McCarthy, who is known for his work in the horror genre, Hokum is set to be a chilling showcase of Scott's dramatic range, proving he can lead a serious horror feature. The film is currently slated for a release around May 2026.

The Party Down Revival (2023)

In 2023, Scott reprised his role as Henry Pollard in the long-awaited revival of the Starz sitcom Party Down. The series, which follows a group of aspiring Hollywood dreamers working as caterers, originally ran from 2009 to 2010. The third season brought back the original ensemble cast, including Scott, to explore the characters' lives a decade later. This return was a massive win for fans of the cult-favorite comedy, demonstrating Scott’s loyalty to the projects that helped define his early career.

The Versatility of Adam Scott and His Lasting Impact

Adam Scott’s career trajectory is a testament to the power of artistic versatility. He has successfully navigated the challenging transition from beloved comedic star to serious dramatic lead, all while maintaining his reputation as one of the most reliable and engaging performers in the industry. Whether he is crunching numbers as Ben Wyatt, battling corporate dystopia as Mark Scout, or confronting a witch in a remote Irish inn, Scott’s commitment to nuanced, memorable performances ensures that his movies and shows will remain essential viewing for years to come.

The anticipation for Severance Season 2 and the excitement around his new horror role in Hokum confirm that Scott is not resting on his past successes. He continues to push his boundaries, making him a true Hollywood heavyweight whose next move is always worth watching.