by Andy Greene
First published 2020
Andy Greene chronicles the complete journey of The Office from its BBC origins to becoming a television phenomenon. The Rolling Stone writer conducted exclusive interviews with creators, writers, and actors to uncover the full story behind America's most beloved workplace comedy. Greene reveals how NBC nearly canceled the show after just six episodes and documents the network's failed attempt to recruit James Gandolfini as Michael Scott's replacement when Steve Carell departed. The book examines pivotal episodes including "The Dundies," "Threat Level Midnight," and "Goodbye, Michael" while exploring how a small team transformed a quirky British adaptation into a primetime success. Greene traces the show's evolution across nine seasons, detailing the creative battles and behind-the-scenes moments that shaped iconic characters like Jim, Pam, Dwight, and Michael. This oral history captures how The Office redefined television comedy and influenced how audiences view workplace culture, maintaining its popularity years after the 2013 finale through streaming and syndication.
Genres: media-tie-in, non-fiction, comedy, 21st-century, oral-history
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: documentary, insider-look, oral-history
Period: 2000s
464 pages · Hardcover · Dutton Books