Surprise Hit! Why 'The Paper' Is the Must-Watch 'Office' Spinoff You Didn't Know You Needed

Prepare to have your streaming expectations delightfully shattered, because the new 'Office' spin-off, The Paper, has arrived on Peacock, and it's not just good – it’s shockingly brilliant. Like many, I approached this series with a healthy dose of skepticism. After all, following in the comedic footsteps of Dunder Mifflin is a monumental task, and the idea of another mockumentary set within that universe, even tangentially, felt like a risky venture.

Yet, after devouring all 10 episodes, I can confidently say that The Paper isn’t just a pleasant surprise; it’s a masterclass in how to build upon a beloved legacy while forging a completely original and compelling path.

From the creative minds of Greg Daniels (co-creator of the U.S.

Office) and Michael Koman (known for Nathan For You), The Paper transports us to a dying local newspaper in the Midwest. The premise itself is timely and poignant, reflecting the struggles of local journalism in the digital age. At its heart are the compelling performances of Domhnall Gleeson, who leads the quirky ensemble, and the phenomenal Sabrina Impacciatore, known for her scene-stealing role in The White Lotus.

While it carries the unmistakable DNA of The Office through its mockumentary format and a certain comedic sensibility, The Paper wisely avoids being a mere rehash.

This isn't Dunder Mifflin 2.0. Instead, it’s a spiritual successor, taking the genre’s best elements—the awkward glances, the confessional interviews, the relatable workplace dynamics—and applying them to an entirely fresh narrative. Daniels and Koman have managed to craft a show that feels both familiar and refreshingly new, proving that the mockumentary style still has plenty of stories left to tell beyond the paper sales industry.

What truly elevates The Paper is its ability to find its own unique voice almost immediately.

The writing is sharp, witty, and consistently funny, but it’s also imbued with a surprising depth and emotional resonance. It delicately balances laugh-out-loud moments with genuine heart, exploring the human connections and struggles of its characters in a way that feels authentic and earned. The direction is masterful, allowing the humor to breathe and the poignant moments to land with impact.

Every performance, from the leads to the supporting cast, feels perfectly pitched, contributing to a world that is both absurd and deeply real.

Ultimately, The Paper is more than just a comedy; it's a commentary on community, legacy, and the evolving nature of information. It tackles these themes with intelligence and sensitivity, making you laugh one moment and ponder the next.

If you've been yearning for a smart, funny, and genuinely heartfelt series that captures the spirit of what made The Office so beloved without resorting to cheap imitation, then The Paper on Peacock is an absolute must-watch. It’s a testament to creative vision, proving that sometimes, the most unexpected successors are the ones that shine the brightest.