In an interview with BBC Radio promoting his movie, Date Night, Steve Carell let loose with a bit of a doozy for The Office fans back here in the States: he is contemplating leaving the series that made him famous when his contract runs out after next season. When asked if he will stay after his contract runs out, Carell replied, "I don't think so. I think that will probably be my last year." Now this could be some kind of negotiating tactic, but from a complete outsider's point of view, Carell doesn't seem like the kind of guy who would play hardball for a few extra bucks. At the end of next season, he will have played Michael Scott for seven years. With a burgeoning movie career (Date Night is currently out in theaters, he is the star voice of Despicable Me coming out this summer, and there is a rumored Anchorman sequel being developed), it might be the right time for Carell to leave.
But is it the right time for The Office? Personally, I think it might. There is no denying the fact that the show has been a little flat the last couple seasons. Yes, Pam and Jim's wedding, the birth of their baby, and the introductoin of Ellie Kemper to the cast have been boons for the series, but overall, some of the early Office magic has been lost. Having Michael leave (perhaps to be with Holly in New Hampshire?), could really open up the opportunities for some great comedy as different forces within Dunder Mifflin/Sabre: Scranton maneuver to gain control of the branch. Undoubtedly, Dwight would make a play against previous co-manager Jim, and there's always the possibility former wunderkind Ryan would use his Machiavellian skills to climb the ladder again. Heck, even Phyllis, Oscar or Stanley could try to claim the top spot. What if Jan somehow came back? In any of these cases, undoubtedly, hilarity would ensue. So, in short, this news, amy not be the death knell for The Office, and could even revive the series.
So, what do you think about this news? Would you still watch The Officewithout Steve Carell's Michael Scott? Do you think it would be an unmitigated disaster to try to go on without him, or do you see potential comedic upside? Leave your questions, comments and theories below. Please be sure to come back to TVOvermind for more information on this story as it develops, and all of your TV news needs.
(Via: Entertainment Weekly)
Follow: twitter.com/tvovermind
Follow: twitter.com/MikeNJD
I'm a Steve Carell fan but he is not the "ensemble" actor needed to play Michael Scott. I think his leaving will save the show.