Greg Daniels Explains Why ‘The Paper’ Isn’t a Reboot of ‘The Office’
Greg Daniels is back in the mockumentary game—but this time, he’s swapping Dunder Mifflin for a Midwestern newsroom. His latest series, The Paper, follows the beleaguered staff of the Toledo Truth-Teller as they attempt to revive their struggling newspaper. While it shares the same documentary-style format and features a cameo from The Office’s Oscar Nuñez, Daniels insists this isn’t a reboot—it’s a whole new story with a fresh set of characters.
Not a Reboot, Just a New Chapter
Daniels and co-creator Michael Koman have been careful to clarify that The Paper is its own entity. The mockumentary crew from The Office returns, but the characters, setting, and storylines are entirely new, centered around the trials of local journalism rather than a paper company.
Daniels emphasizes that the series explores contemporary issues like shrinking print readership, digital competition, and newsroom politics in a humorous but grounded way. “It’s a new documentary by the same crew,” he told NBC Insider, distancing the show from any direct continuation of The Office. Fans can expect Daniels’ signature blend of awkward humor and heart without feeling like they’re revisiting Scranton.
Oscar’s Back, But Not as You Remember
Oscar Nuñez makes a cameo in The Paper, but his return is more a nod to loyal fans than a continuation of his character’s arc. Daniels explained that Oscar’s presence is a fun Easter egg that links the two universes without turning The Paper into a sequel.
The appearance also reinforces the documentary style, giving longtime viewers a familiar face while highlighting that the focus has shifted entirely to the Toledo newsroom. Nuñez’s brief but witty moments provide subtle comedic relief while maintaining the show’s fresh identity. This approach balances nostalgia with originality, pleasing fans of The Office while keeping the new series independent.
A Fresh Take on Workplace Comedy
The Paper swaps office pranks for the chaos of journalism, showing what happens when idealism meets budget cuts, missed deadlines, and eccentric staff members. Domhnall Gleeson stars as Ned Sampson, the new editor-in-chief who’s determined to revive the paper with a team of underqualified and quirky journalists.
Storylines delve into everything from viral news mistakes to absurd editorial meetings, providing both satire and relatable workplace dynamics. Daniels’ writing maintains the awkward humor, deadpan reactions, and cringe moments that fans loved in The Office, but within a fresh professional arena. The series offers a mix of comedy, social commentary, and heart, demonstrating that the workplace mockumentary format is still thriving.
Season 2 Already in the Works
Before the first season even premiered, NBC renewed The Paper for a second season, signaling confidence in Daniels’ new venture. The early success stems from strong writing, a talented ensemble, and the curiosity of fans who want to see the newsroom antics unfold. Daniels has hinted that season two will explore deeper relationships between staff, tackle new topical challenges in media, and introduce even more eccentric characters. The renewal also reflects NBC’s willingness to invest in workplace comedy that blends nostalgia with innovation. For viewers, it means The Paper won’t just be a one-off experiment—it’s shaping up to be a sustainable, evolving series.
Wrapping It Up
So while The Paper may share some DNA with The Office, it’s not a reboot—it’s a new story with a fresh perspective. Daniels and his team have crafted a workplace comedy that stands on its own, combining awkward humor, clever satire, and heartfelt moments. Fans of The Office will find familiar vibes in the documentary style, but the Toledo newsroom ensures plenty of surprises. And who knows? Maybe in the next season, we’ll see a viral headline mishap or a printer jam worthy of Michael Scott—just in a completely new paper.
