New Workplace Comedy ‘The Paper’ Follows the Spirit of The Office in a Newspaper Setting

More than a decade after the US version of The Office ended, its creators are revisiting the mockumentary format with a new workplace comedy, The Paper. The show, produced by the same team behind the American adaptation, shifts the focus from Dunder Mifflin to a struggling Midwestern newspaper, the Toledo Truth-Teller. Domhnall Gleeson stars as the well-meaning but inept editor Ned Sampson, who tries to revive local journalism by relying on a small, untrained staff. Oscar Nuñez reprises his role as accountant Oscar Martinez, bridging the familiar world of The Office with the new setting. The series maintains the original’s documentary-style humor, blending workplace absurdities with real-world stakes. Gleeson emphasizes that while his character is earnest, his lack of competence drives the comedy. The show also introduces new characters, including Esmeralda, played by Sabrina Impacciatore, who brings a bold and manipulative energy. While fans may expect a direct continuation of The Office, the creators stress that The Paper tells an entirely new story while keeping the spirit and tone of the original. The series will premiere on Peacock in the US and on Sky and Now in the UK from 5 September.