New Series ‘The Paper’ Not a Reboot of ‘The Office,’ Creators Confirm
URGENT UPDATE: The creators of the highly anticipated series ‘The Paper’ have made it clear that the show is NOT a reboot of the beloved ‘The Office’. In a press briefing earlier today, co-creator Greg Daniels explained why this new mockumentary, set in a struggling newspaper in Toledo, should be seen as a fresh venture rather than a rehash of the iconic original.
Daniels emphasized the importance of originality, stating, “I knew that this shouldn’t be recasting the show ‘The Office,’ or keeping the same characters but with a new cast that would be compared to the original and come up short.” Instead, he described ‘The Paper’ as “the same documentary crew finding a different story to talk about.” This statement has ignited discussions among fans eager to understand the creative direction of the series.
Adding to the excitement, Michael Koman, the executive producer, revealed that he initially wasn’t aware of the connection to ‘The Office’. “When Greg brought the idea of a documentary covering this newspaper, I just thought it was a good idea. I didn’t know until later that it was going to be connected to ‘The Office’!” Koman’s comments highlight the fresh narrative focus that the team aims to present.
Pearlena Igbokwe, chairman of TV studios for NBC Entertainment and Peacock, echoed the sentiment, stating that the goal was to create a show that “stands on its own.” She reassured fans that while the show carries the essence of the mockumentary style, it introduces entirely different characters and storylines. “We wanted to send that clear message that ‘We hope you come and enjoy all the things you love — the mockumentary style, the DNA of it — but it’s a different show,’” Igbokwe said.
The series is set against the backdrop of a declining journalism landscape, inspired by the concept of a “ghost newspaper.” Daniels noted the significance of this theme, stating, “I remember hearing about what a ‘ghost newspaper’ is,” which influenced the setting of a failing paper owned by Enervate.
In an exciting casting choice, Oscar Nuñez will reprise his role as Oscar Martinez, while Domhnall Gleeson takes on the lead role of Ned Sampson, charged with revitalizing the newsroom. This dynamic duo is expected to bring a mix of humor and heart to the series, appealing to both new audiences and loyal fans of the original show.
As anticipation builds, viewers are encouraged to keep an eye out for more updates on ‘The Paper’, which promises to deliver new perspectives while honoring the legacy of ‘The Office’. The series aims to start streaming on Peacock later this year, bringing a fresh wave of comedy to screens around the globe.
Stay tuned for more breaking news and exclusive insights as ‘The Paper’ gears up for its debut.
