FridayOL

Domhnall Gleeson, the acclaimed actor known for his roles in Star Wars and Just in Time, is set to lead NBC’s highly anticipated The Office spinoff, The Paper. The series, premiering on Peacock this fall, promises to deliver the same blend of workplace humor and heartwarming moments that made the original a global phenomenon. But Gleeson's involvement wasn't a foregone conclusion – he credits former co-stars John Krasinski and Steve Carell with encouraging him to take on the role.

The spinoff, which has been in development for some time, focuses on the world of a local newspaper and its quirky staff. It aims to capture the same spirit of mockumentary-style humor that defined The Office, while forging its own unique identity. Gleeson will play Jonathan Wickham, a young journalist navigating the challenges and absurdities of the newsroom.

According to Gleeson, Krasinski (who played Jim Halpert in the original series) and Carell (the iconic Michael Scott) reached out personally to express their excitement about the project and to urge him to consider joining. “John and Steve were both really, really sweet and encouraging,” Gleeson revealed in a recent interview. “They both said they thought it was a really good idea and that they were excited for me to do it.”

This endorsement from two of the most beloved actors from the original series carries significant weight. Krasinski and Carell’s performances were central to The Office’s success, and their support for The Paper is a strong signal of confidence in the spinoff’s potential. It's a testament to the enduring legacy of the original show and the appeal of its premise.

The casting of Gleeson himself is also generating considerable buzz. Known for his versatility and ability to portray both comedic and dramatic roles, Gleeson is considered an excellent choice to lead the new series. He has proven his comedic timing in films like About Time and Frank, while also showcasing his dramatic range in projects like Calvary and Ex Machina. His ability to balance humor and vulnerability makes him ideally suited to embody the complexities of Jonathan Wickham.

The Paper is being developed by showrunners Kim Harris and Russell T Davies, who have a proven track record of creating successful comedies. The series promises to explore themes of ambition, friendship, and the evolving landscape of journalism in the digital age. Viewers can expect a familiar yet fresh take on the workplace comedy genre, infused with the signature wit and heart that made The Office so beloved.

With the combined appeal of the The Office legacy, the endorsement of Krasinski and Carell, and the talent of Domhnall Gleeson, The Paper is poised to be a major hit for Peacock. The show's premiere this fall is highly anticipated, and fans of the original series are eager to see if the spinoff can capture the same magic.