To this day, Steve Carell's departure from The Office remains a bittersweet moment for fans. The American sitcom, which follows the original UK version, became more interestingly popular. It takes a humorous look at the daily lives of employees at Dunder Mifflin, a fictional paper company in Scranton, Pennsylvania.
What sets The Office apart from traditional sitcoms is that it uses a mockumentary format throughout its run. The deadpan humor or the unawareness among the employees for being funny sets the authentic tone.
It focuses on almost every employee including Jim (John Krasinski), Pam (Jenna Fischer), Dwight (Rainn Wilson), and how can we forget Michael Scott, played by Steve Carell. Scott is a quirky, often clueless regional manager who tries to be supportive and kind, but his attempts always lead to awkward moments.
The show ran for nine seasons, but unfortunately, fans didn't see Steve Carell in the last two seasons. However, his exit wasn't driven by drama or conflicts but simply a personal and professional choice.
Continue reading to explore the reason explained by the actor.
The reason behind Steve Carell’s departure from The Office: The actor's personal choice
Despite being the most iconic and adored character in The Office, Steve Carell left the sitcom for good. It was in Season 7 Episode 22 "Goodbye Michael" in which fans bid farewell to Scott as he decided to leave Dunder Mifflin and embrace his future with Holly Flax, the woman who complemented his quirky personality.
The episode was a constant reminder that it was the last time Carell would play the lead role, but it was offered in such a way that his character arc felt complete and heartfelt. The actor also talked about the last episode during the "Office Ladies" podcast and said:
"It was a really difficult episode to do but I also loved it at the same time because it was the end game for Michael"
The Crazy, Stupid, Love star broke the news in 2010 when he first hinted at his departure from The Office during a BBC radio interview. Per Entertainment Weekly, the actor thought it was time to leave as his contract was coming to an end and he wanted to spend more time with his family. Carell said:
"I want to fulfill my contract. I think it’s a good time to move on... I just want to spend more time with my family."
Soon after Micheal left, the makers introduced new characters like Robert California (James Spader) and Jo Bennett (Kathy Bates) but stayed true to its humor. Despite the changes, many felt that Steve Carell's exit left a hole that the later seasons couldn't fill.
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Steve Carell surprised fans by reprising his role in The Office finale
Steve Carell did leave The Office in Season 7, but he ensured his presence as Michael Scott in the last episode of the sitcom. It was at Dwight Schrute and Angela Martin's wedding that we see Carell making a surprise cameo, offering both an exciting and emotional farewell for the last time.
Interestingly, the actor's return for the series finale in 2013 was a huge moment, not only for fans but also for the cast. As explained by the show’s creator, Greg Daniels during the "Office Ladies" podcast, the show’s creator, Greg Daniels, initially planned to bring back Carell for the last episode, but things didn't work out.
Carell's schedule was tight and he couldn't conform his presence. However, the idea resurfaced, and the cast was kept in the dark about it. The Free Guy star said:
"And then the whole Steve reveal was kind of a big reveal for us, too. Like his appearance was huge."
Similarly, Jenna Fischer was also surprised to see Carell on the sets, but the cast remained tight-lipped about his return until the episode aired.
Additionally, The Office Universe will soon expand with a new spin-off titled The Paper in 2025. While it won't be a reboot of the original show, but will take place in the same universe, focusing on the employees handling new projects.
The upcoming series is expected to arrive on NBC in the summer of 2025 and will have a talented cast of actors including Domhnall Gleeson (known for Star Wars). Currently, no official trailer or look has been shared by the network, and will likely be shared when the series release date is confirmed.
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