Get unlimited access to everything VICE has to offer.

Turn off all ads on VICE.com

Exclusive New VICE Documentaries

Member Exclusive Features & Columns

Turn off all ads on VICE.com

Exclusive New VICE Documentaries

Member Exclusive Features & Columns

Turn off all ads on VICE.com

Exclusive New VICE Documentaries

Member Exclusive Features & Columns

4 Magazines Delivered to Your Door

The American Version of ‘The Office’ Almost Looked Very Different

The way it was pitched to him was hilariously insulting.

Share on X (Opens in new window)X

Share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Facebook

Share using Native toolsShareCopied to clipboard

Based on the 2001 British comedy series of the same name, the American version of The Office, which debuted in 2005, was developed by King of the Hill creator Greg Daniels. As is the case with many TV shows, many people were considered for various roles on and off the screen in the early stages of production. NBC reportedly initially wanted Philip Seymour Hoffman or Paul Giamatti to play the Michael Scott role. Ricky Gervais, who starred in the British version, was even offered the part at one point, but turned it........

© Vice