Looking back, NBC's smash hit 'The Office' was a major risk in terms of its presentation. It followed a documentary-type style, later known as, a mockumentary. What made the show stick out is its filming style, which featured no live studio audience, along with a single camera for its taping.
Ultimately, the risk was a lot worth it and the show became a smash hit, still adored by the fanbase today on repeat. The sitcom lasted nine seasons along with over 200 episodes.
Despite the success of the show, things could've looked very different, especially from a casting standpoint.
As we'll come to realize, some major names had tried out for the show during its early stages. Let's just say, some of the major roles could've had a major twist.
In particular, we'll look at an intriguing audition that took place alongside Jenna Fischer, aka Pam. The iconic actor blew the room away and it is said that he actually got the part. However, due to a certain someone's availabilities, that all changed.
We wouldn't change a thing about the show, though it is interesting to think how different things could've looked.
The Entire Cast Almost Looked Very Different
The competition to get on the show was fierce. After the show came to an end, we got some major details on what went on behind the scenes, especially when it came to the casting process.
For starters, Rainn Wilson was the first name on the audition sheet for Dwight, however, there was a slew of other names considered, not to mention that he also auditioned for Michael's role.
As for Jim, his role was far from secure.
Although John Krasinski hit it out of the park, it is interesting to think about Adam Scott and what he could've brought to the character. Although he didn't get the role, he made enough of an impression to be considered for the follow-up project, 'Parks And Rec'. He became a fan favorite and regular on the show.
As it turns out, the hardest part turned out to be casting the Michael Scott character. NBC brought in several high-profile names to read for the part. One in particular pretty much had the role secured, if not for a change at the last minute.
The Role Of Michael Scott Had Plenty Of Competition
According to casting director Allison Jones, finding the right candidate for the role of Michael Scott turned out to be the most difficult process. The criteria was the star needed to be over 35 and according to Uproxx, there were more than a few names in play.
The list featured so many top-tier talents, including Louis C.K., Stephen Colbert, John C. Reilly, David Arquette, Eugene Levy, Jason Segal, and so many others.
It got narrowed down to two, and a certain someone really impressed, "He was available. He had a great reputation in the comedy world, and he hadn’t yet become famous. He wasn’t really well known.”
This celeb would read lines alongside Fischer and came inches away from getting the role.
Bob Odenkirk Auditioned With Jenna Fischer & Almost Got The Role
It was down to Bob Odenkirk and Steve Carell, two iconic faces in the entertainment world.
Fischer recalls her time alongside Odenkirk in the audition room, it is said that he was a joy to be around.
“I was in the Steve Carell test group. I knew Bob Odenkirk when I was auditioning for The Office, and we were both called. I was called to do Pam and he was called to do Michael, so we got together and practiced together.”
“[Bob] did this very funny audition where he brought in his guitar and sang along to Pam. We had worked it all out. We were going to ask if we could do it if we were paired together, but we never were.”
Ultimately, Jones stated that saying no to Bob was downright gut-wrenching, given how great and respected he was. The difference at the end of the day was the fact that Bob played the role a little edgier and darker compared to Steve.
"He had an edge to him. His take was as funny as Steve’s, but it was darker."
We can all agree, the correct decision was made, and don't feel bad for Odenkirk, as he thrived in 'Breaking Bad', which in turn, would lead down the path to his very own spin-off, 'Better Call Saul'.
Sources: Uproxx, EW & Floor 8
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