Peacock is preparing to debut its latest original series, The Paper, a spin-off of the beloved Emmy-winning series The Office, which premieres its first four episodes on September 4th. The show, created by Greg Daniels and Michael Koman, stars Domhnall Gleeson and Sabrina Impacciatore, and blends the absurdity of workplace comedy with the intensity of newsroom drama. At a recent press conference, the cast and creators discussed the unique tone of the series, its cultural relevance, and what audiences can expect.
The Origins of The Paper
During a recent press conference, Greg Daniels explained that the inspiration for the show came from an interest in the chaos of modern journalism. “We were fascinated by the idea of a newspaper that is kind of failing, but still has this sense of self-importance and mission,” Daniels said. He added that he and co-creator Michael Koman wanted to capture both “the nobility and the ridiculousness of that environment.”
Koman echoed that sentiment, adding, “The humor really comes from watching people try so hard in a system that doesn’t work. There’s something tragic and hilarious about it at the same time.”
Blending Comedy with Drama
Domhnall Gleeson plays the paper’s beleaguered new editor and described the tone of the show as a balancing act. “It’s funny, but it’s not afraid to go dark. I think that’s what makes it exciting,” he said. “We’re not just telling jokes. We’re showing people at their best and worst, often in the same scene.”
Gleeson admitted that part of what drew him to the project was the chance to play a character under immense pressure. “He’s someone who believes in what he’s doing, but he’s constantly undermined by the realities of the business. That tension was really compelling to me,” he explained.
White Lotus alum Sabrina Impacciatore portrays a veteran journalist at the publication and spoke on the emotional depth behind the comedy. “The show makes you laugh, but it also makes you think about the importance of truth and the struggle to keep telling stories when nobody wants to pay for them anymore,” she said.
Impacciatore spoke about her character’s role in grounding the series. “She’s very passionate, sometimes too much. But she’s also the heart of the newsroom, reminding everyone why they’re there, even when everything is falling apart,” she said.
Daniels noted, “We got very lucky with the cast. Domhnall and Sabrina bring such different energies, but together they create something very alive and the show thrives on that clash of personalities.”
Relevance in Today’s Media Landscape
The creators were quick to point out the timely nature of the series, much like The Office did with the declining paper industry being outmatched by big chain retail stores. Koman remarked, “We’re living in a time where people are questioning what journalism means, who it’s for, and whether it’s sustainable. Yes, The Paper is a satire, but it’s also a mirror to what’s happening right now.”
Daniels added, “It’s not about one political side or the other. It’s about the struggle of people who care about the truth, but are trapped in a system that makes it nearly impossible to deliver it.”
Impacciatore reflected on how the themes resonate globally. “This isn’t just about America. Everywhere, journalism is changing, and people feel the loss of trust in institutions. That’s something audiences all over the world will recognize,” she said.
What Audiences Can Expect
When asked what they hope audiences take away from the show, Gleeson replied, “I think people will come for the laughs, but they’ll stay for the humanity. You get to see flawed people fighting for something bigger than themselves.”
“It’s a comedy, yes, but it has a lot of heart,” Impacciatore added, “You care about these characters, even when they’re making terrible decisions.”
Daniels summed it up by saying, “At the end of the day, it’s about people trying to connect, trying to make sense of the world. That’s something we can all relate to.”
With its mix of biting satire, heartfelt drama, and sharp performances, The Paper promises to be one of the most talked-about shows of the fall. As Daniels put it, “We want people to laugh, but we also want them to think.”
The Paper is now streaming Peacock.
