Rainn Wilson Reflects on “The Office” in New Podcast
Rainn Wilson, known for his role in “The Office,” recently launched his podcast, “The Last Laugh,” where he shared some critiques about the show, which has received three Emmy nominations. He remarked that back then, the series “did it too much” and suggested it would need to be “very different” if created in 2025.
He pointed to a particular episode, the Benihana Christmas one, involving Michael and Andy, which includes a scene where they sketch one of the Asian women they invite to the party using a Sharpie. Wilson described it as a “horrifying jaw dropping” moment. “It’s a complex conversation,” he said, acknowledging the characters’ ignorance and the insensitivity displayed, which he feels reflects a specific aspect of American society.
Despite his criticisms, Wilson added humorously that the show was “hell-fun” and managed to poke fun at a certain American sensibility. He pondered whether such a show could exist today, implying that it would have to adapt significantly to fit within the current social climate.
“The Office,” a mockumentary centered on a fictional paper company in Scranton, Pennsylvania, aired on NBC from 2005 to 2013. It has remained popular on streaming platforms like Netflix and Peacock.
There was an intention to create a spinoff titled “Farm,” featuring Wilson’s character. This was hinted at in a “backdoor pilot” during the ninth season of “The Office,” but NBC ultimately chose not to pursue it. Wilson recalled, “NBC had no interest in an ‘Office’ spinoff at the time. If they had greenlit ‘Farm,’ they might have made a fortune. Even now, all those who have rewatched ‘The Office’ numerous times would surely check out ‘Farm’ at least once.” He reflected on the potential success and quality of the project, expressing that they really missed out.
Meanwhile, on Peacock, NBC’s streaming service, “The Paper,” is a new spinoff created by the original show’s creator, Greg Daniels. Notably, it was renewed for a second season the day prior to its premiere.
