No, the character Kier Egan in the TV show Severance is not a direct reference to Keir Starmer, the UK Prime Minister.

The name "Kier" in Severance is derived from Kier Hardie, the Scottish founder of the UK Labour Party — whom Keir Starmer was also named after. The show’s creator, Dan Erickson, has not confirmed any political reference, and the name "Kier" in the series predates Starmer’s rise to national prominence.

In Severance, Kier Egan is the fictional founder of Lumon Industries, portrayed as a 19th-century industrialist and philosopher whose cult-like ideology permeates the company. The name was likely chosen for its uncommon, archaic, and slightly ominous tone, fitting the show’s dystopian themes.

While the coincidence has sparked discussion — especially given Starmer’s ascent to Prime Minister in 2024 — any connection is purely coincidental, rooted in the shared historical namesake (Keir Hardie), not intentional satire or commentary.