Image Credit: Jen Lowery/Startraksphoto.com; Vito Amati/Getty Im
With Steve Carell stepping out of NBC’s The Office, producers have enlisted Will Ferrell to help boost the show’s numbers during the season’s home stretch.
Ferrell will reunite with his Anchorman co-star in a four-episode arc later this season. He’ll play a branch manager who arrives from the home office and proves to be just as inept as Michael Scott.
“We found Steve Carell when he was nothing but a movie star and we turned him into a television star,” says executive producer Paul Lieberstein. “We are proud to continue The Office‘s tradition of discovering famous talent, and we hope that once America gets a good look at Will, they’ll see what we see: tremendous raw sexuality.”
Three episodes will feature Carell and Ferrell together (they’re not co-workers, they’re co-people), then Ferrell will have one episode working with the Office gang solo after Carell departs (he’s leaving the show four episodes before the season finale, you’ll recall).
What do you think? Seems like a great story. Compelling, and rich.
Awesome!
And if Todd Packer shows up, it will be 3/4ths of an Anchorman reunion!
I killed a man with a trident.
I love lamp. I love lamp!
Get a role for Paul Rudd, so we can get Afternoon Delight!
please please please! That would be awesome
I think your wishes are coming true. The actor who plays Packer says he’s going to be on the Office for a few eps later this season!
I’ll tell you right now…Todd Packer IS returning!! I was on the set this Monday and even his corvette was in the lot…WL HUNG plate and all!! I’ll even hint at the fact that he is returning to his desk as a regular!
LOUD NOISES!!
Been meaning to tell you you should lay low for a while…
that would be so amazing! Anchorman is still a movie I quote all the time
sex panther: 60% of the time, it works every time
Worst show ever. I tried watching it several times. I have yet to crack a smile. I think Will Ferral is funny in many of his movies and when he was on SNL. I guess people change.
Why would you read a story about a comedy when you have no sense of humor?
Nice call, Scott. And funny.
Simon, go back to torturing kittens.
Maybe it’s you, Simon. If you think The Office is worse than Two and a Half Men, then it is probably you.
Go back to your home on wh*re island!
You were probably watching the UK version Simon.
Nate, by saying what you did about the UK version you just made yourself look like an idiot…
Your comment smells like Bigfoot’s dick….
To defend Simon a little, you can’t just watch one episode of the Office and get it. It has its own pace, its own rhythm. I started in season one and the first few episodes, I didn’t get it. Once I got the pace, its hilarious. So, Simon, you gotta put a little work in. The show is too smart to nail in one sitting.
Simon’s comment makes sense. Who changes? Ferrel because he’s on the show (ie. if he’s here he’s not funny?). Plus Simon, if this is your worst show ever you need to see more TV.
It does take awhile to get into the show. I watched a few eps back when it first started and couldn’t get into it. I was also a huge fan of the UK version and I was wary of it. Last year I ended up watching an episode of season 6 called “Murder”. The beginning really hooked me in and the rest of the episode had be crying tears of laughter, seriously it was that funny. Simon, maybe you can try watching it and see if you like it too. I ended up watching every episode on Netflix and it took a few months to get through every season but I couldn’t stop watching, every episode was so funny.
I have to say they should end the show with this season. Micheal is an integral part of the show and the main reason it is so funny. Sure all the characters together make the show funny and it’s the best collaborative comedy on tv, sorry to 30 rock but it’s true. I just can’t see any of the other characters stepping up to take over. Plus, the show really jumped the shark after the Jim/Pam baby.
Well you know my name is Simon, and I like to do draw-ings.
shut it man!!! the office is the best show since SNL!!!
Another project for Wil to destroy!
“Compelling, and rich” LOL AWESOME!!
you should probably find a safe house or something…..
Ugh I just don’t get his appeal. I’m only really keeping up with the Office out of habit and this isn’t going to help.
Wendy Whiner.
more like Sarah Sadface….
But we have a reservation!
Stupid question. I feel like maybe this has been coeervd but what is the significance of TT as it applies to intervals (like today for running) Does that mean I bust out the first one literally as hard as I can to find my best 800 time. Or is it the hardest you can do 2-4 800 S ? A subtle but important distinction ..thanks guys!
You’re so lame sarah
Dont get too original with your replies there, vicster…
You are unoriginal The non-vicster. You have been banned!
I had to stop watching because the past couple of seasons have been so bad that I was getting worried that it would end up ruining the first five for me. I like Will Ferrell though, but I just can’t bring myself to watch the show anymore.
I have to agree.
This season has been really strong so far. I get what you’re saying cuz they certainly had their low moments, but it’s been good again.
@pittner – what is it that is so bad now? Just curious.
I think you guys just like to b*tch and moan, I am watching the season 6 dvd and it some of the best episodes have come from that season.
I do not understand why so many people post saying “oh, I don’t like it” – then why post? Nobody who likes these shows wants to hear what you have to say… We, who like it, don’t give a rat’s ass whether you like it or have not watched it in years. Again, why would anyone post or read an article if it’s not a show you like? If you don’t like it, then go read something else and let the rest of us enjoy the Office, etc.
Because this is not a fan board?
I think people like the ones who make this comment are just being pretentious.. “If more common folk are watching it then it must not be funny because I am above these slack jawed yokels”
Presumptuous much Katrob? Pittner didn’t say anything to belittle fans of the show. Just said they don’t like it anymore.
Kat like Rob said this isn’t a fan board. People are entitled to their opinions. Unless someone is in your home talking over your TV show, they aren’t robbing you of your enjoyment. Why do people feel so threatened by differing opinions? Pretty sad comment on society if people can’t even handle dissenting viewpoints about something as trivial as a TV show.
Incidentally, I do like The Office. I just don’t like people being told they can’t express their opinion just because someone else thinks anyone who doesn’t like the same things as them is “bad” or “wrong” and not just, *gasp*, different. That kind of rabid fan behavior does a disservice to TV shows and other viewers.
More like Sarah Living In Reality.
Sarah, your pretty STUPID. Will is funny as shit. WTF is your problem. He is a very funny guy, that’s an understatment-YOUR MY BOY BLUE, your my boy!
J, I beg to differ with you…YOU’RE the one who is “pretty stupid”. Why? Because you can’t even use the word “You’re” correctly. Or spell very well (understatment? wtf is that?). You meant to say that “He is a very funny guy, that’s an understatement- YOU’RE MY BOY BLUE, you’re my boy!”.
Check YOUR dictionary for freak’s sake. YOU’RE bound to find out you have been using the word incorrectly all over cyberspace.
And btw, Will Ferrell may be funny in some of the stuff he does. But this character they concocted for him on ‘The Office’ is creepy and extremely hard to watch. I can’t wait to see him swept OUT of the office, forever. I’m also a long-time fan of the show. I can see it living on without Michael Scott…just not with Deangelo Vickers in the boss’ seat. Ugh. These last few episodes have been painful to watch. (except for Michael’s final episode) I truly hope they bring Catherine Tate in to replace him (or promote Jim’s character to run things)!
To the rest of you…lighten up! Everyone is entitled to their opinions. Some of the posts here, that simply trash a person for being contrary, only prove that you probably all watch way too much reality TV and need to learn to communicate with your fellow humans face-to-face, not on the internet. No tweets, no posts, no blogs. Simple human interaction is needed to remind you how to talk to people without sounding like a complete jerk-off. I doubt you would ever tell a total stranger they are pretty stupid just for saying they don’t like a character or a show. Not to their face.
Remember what the world was like when people had manners? And actually talked instead of typing or texting? Hmmm…
I completely agree, Sarah.
Ferrel is unfunny. To say he is overrated is an exaggeration.
so then he’s not overrated?
nice, joah
best response possible josh ahhaha.
lol, got you there! I enjoy Will Ferrel’s comedy. Think about it, he’s spawned some good cult classics such as Old School, Anchorman, Night at the Roxbury, Stepbrothers, and that’s just off the top of my head. Memorable performances. You know he’s a good addition to The Office when people all over this blog are quoting lines from his old movies lol.
Hey Hey you you, I don’t like your comment. No way no way, I think you need a new one.
So you publicly admit you don’t even have the willpower to stop watching the show. You’re an idiot.
Bohemian Hall and Beer Garden is the perfect place for a get-together with the dudes. I elclpiasey liked the Schnitzel and Cream Spinach, you know those delicious food with a tomato slice on top? And the Roast Duck Platter was delicious too. It would be cool if they do a Groupon.
Did the flexibility Gymnastic WOD from Tuesday for warm-up. Yesterday’s CFE Strength & cniiitdoonng WOD. Push-Press 3,3,3,2,2,1 Reps. 115,130,135,145,155,165lbs. Got a new record outta that. Crossfit Mainsite WOD scaled. Deadlift- 285lbs./5sets/2reps. Grace 95lbs.- 7:35 minutes. Did a mix of roll-ups, flexibility, wall-walks to stretch me out. Great S&C WOD today.
Truth is, the show hasn’t been funny for the past 2 seasons. Instead of following Gervais’ lead and killing the show while it was still funny, they’ve gone the usual NBC way and they will ride it out to the end so that most people will remember it as a lame unfunny show.
Gervais’ lead? No show in England lasts, they end them all and it has nothing to do with whether the creators’ want to “kill” the show or not.
Is the purpose of a show NOT to make money?? Wake up!! There will be plenty of people watching the show and NBC will still make their money just off the brand recognition, original characters or not. If the ratings drop tremendously, then NBC will re-assess the feasibility of the continuation of the show, but as of right now – they would incredibly stupid to just give up! …and, yes, the show is still funny!
Kat, that’s entirely untrue. It was the decision of Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant to end The Office and Extras early. As for shows that have run in England for several years: Coupling, The Vicar of Dibley, Black Adder, Coronation Street, Airline, and many more. These are only the recent ones. Turn on BBC 1, 2, or 3 and you’ll see shows that have been running for years.
Paying attention is a funny thing… if you actually looked into it, you would see that Gervais described Steve Carell’s leaving as “killing a cash cow for both of them”… he doesn’t want to end the show and odds are he didn’t want to kill the British version either…hence its coming to America.
Ok, Debbie Downer!
I agree.
Is there anyone who still finds this guy funny? …. me neither
Will Ferrell ??? Absolutely perfect! I didn’t think I could watch without Michael Scott- but WF is the best at “uncomfortable” humor.
I’m intrigued as to what they can do in the long term, though. Will can’t stick around forever.
do you understand your misstep in logic? “rated the most over-rated”
tool
I was there to join you all this Saturday I was just 20 minutes late! Thought I would see you all at some point on my run but I didn’t. Just ran what I ssegued to be 5 miles. See you all next week for 8.
So I guess NBC just wants to kill the Office completely. Will Farrell sucks in every way possible. He is annoying, not funny, and was rated most overpaid overrated actor in Hollywood. I agree.
Agreed! Now Will FERRELL on the other hand is fine when given decent material. So we’ll see.
Ian, you’re a genius! Great comeback and yes, Will Ferrell will be pretty darn good on the show.
The Will Ferrell Steve Carrell duo worked in Anchorman, I really hope it works here
You’re both idiots.
lol
OMG I thought I was the only left on Earth that doesn’t think Will Farrell is funny. Thank God I’m not alone!!!
Nope, there is two of you left.
I have to be in the MOOD to find Will Ferrell funny. Otherwise, he’s not my favorite. Kind of like Jimmy Fallon…meh
Why did you yell mood?
The honor of most overrated, unfunny hollywood actor goes to Adam Sandler. I’ve never, ever laughed at anything he’s done.
I’ve been on the floor laughing at Will Ferrell numerous times.
I agree. Adam is beyond horrible. He would actualy make a good match for the Office instead of Will.
Yeah – Adam Sandler would be good on The Office if they needed an actor who can talk in a four-year old’s voice.
It’s a tie. Both Adam and Will are un-funny, un-entertaining and 100% annoying. Sorry Ricky Gervais “The Office” is closed. Now we’ll see if NBC can ruin your newest funny bit “An Idiot Abroad”
They’re so unfunny that they’ve made millions of dollars to be funny. I wish I were that unfunny.
Justin Bieber is a singer. He makes millions of dollars. Therefore Justin Bieber must be a great singer. Or maybe he just appeals to a certain niche audience?
Everybody doesn’t have to like someone for them to be successful, nor is success a proof of talent. It’s relative to personal preference. You can’t quantify funny. Unless you put everybody in the world in a world-sized theater and count how much they laugh.
Sometimes I think Will and Adam are funny. Sometimes I don’t. Sometimes they make a lot of money on a less funny movie because people went expecting it to be as funny as their last one.
Although, Mike, you may want to see movies like Punch Drunk Love and Spanglish. Adam Sandler doesn’t always play comic roles, and he handles drama well.
WHALES VAGINA!
Bring back Bitch Hunters!
Love Ferrell. Better in small doses too so a 4-episode arc sounds fine by me.
F Will Ferrell! I was perfect for that role!
Ferrell seems to be taking smarter roles that suit him now. This should really be good. For a while though, he thought he could put out anything and that it would be funny. He fooled some people for a bit, but not me.
I think this is an interesting idea and trust that the producers know what they are doing. Can’t wait to see how it turns out!
This is the best news I’ve heard all day! All you Will Ferell haters keep it to yourselves. Let the ones that ACTUALLY like him be joyous.
I’m totally joyous! Will Ferell is perfect for The Office.
You can’t be joyous independently of others’ feelings? That said, I’m sorry your day is going so poorly. If TV news was the highlight of my day, I’d keep it to myself.
Will Farrel on The Office has potential if he plays a well-rounded character, but I don’t feel a need to change my pants over it.
Very cool. Love Will Ferrell!
HATE. HATE HATE HATE. oh my god. I find him to be completely loathsome and unfunny. so disappointing.
Are you 6 years old? Try learning to express yourself with an ounce of dignity.
Good God.
Oh. Pot meet kettle.
Now say hi to Alex.
You’re all black! BLAAAAAAACK!
with an ounce of dignity? I don’t feel I said anything undignified. I cannot stand him. I find him to be the worst comic actor ever because he is not funny. and therefore, I am disappointed he is going to be on my favorite TV show, because I think it is stunt casting and nothing more. the end.
Man, if there’s six year olds using words like loathsome, I want them in my class.
Don’t listen to them Alissa! I’m with you sister!!
Be quiet Guzzler.
I loved Will Ferell in “Bitch Hunter” so hopefully they’ll get a bunch of guest stars to be manager of the scranton branch and the branch will spook them away mary poppins style. lol!
Amanda is right….those two and a few more are idiots.
o.m.g. YES. I agree with the “raw sexuality” quote. HAHAH
Will Ferrell sucks. Isn’t America over him yet?
Aren’t you over your period,yet?
Your mom is bent over.
My mom has a chronic back problem so that’s really not funny at all. I don’t appreciate you making jokes at her expense. She lives in constant pain and is actually bent over all day long. It makes her work as a prostitute that much harder.
LMAO… for a second I thought you were serious hahaha
That what she said.
Amy, go back to your home on Whore Island!