In a recent Office Ladies podcast episode, The Office stars Jenna Fischer and Angela Kinsey discussed how Steve Carell, known for his role as Michael Scott, almost didn’t return for the series finale. According to Fischer, who portrayed Pam Beesley, and Kinsey, who played Angela Martin, convincing Carell to reprise his role was no small feat.
The idea to bring Carell back was pitched early on in the show’s ninth season by series creator Greg Daniels. However, Carell was initially hesitant, Fischer shared. “He felt like Michael’s story had really ended,” she said on the October 30 podcast episode. Carell, who had bid farewell to the role in 2011 after seven seasons, was reluctant to revisit the character, especially after two years away. He was concerned that his appearance might shift the spotlight to Michael Scott instead of allowing the finale to focus on the other characters’ stories.
Carell reportedly believed that Michael’s exit had been a fitting conclusion, and the finale should honor the remaining cast rather than center around his character. “He didn’t want the finale to be about him,” Fischer noted. She explained that he felt the episode should highlight the ensemble’s journey rather than overshadow it with a highly anticipated return.
Despite these reservations, Daniels ultimately persuaded Carell to make a secret cameo. Carell’s reappearance was intended to be a surprise for both the cast and the audience. His character appears as Dwight Schrute’s (played by Rainn Wilson) best man in his wedding to Angela Martin, played by Kinsey. The creators took extensive measures to maintain secrecy. Carell signed a confidential contract, and even a scene without him was filmed to maintain the surprise factor. NBC executives only saw the final cut a day before it aired, to prevent any promotional leaks that could spoil his cameo.
The secrecy extended to the show’s set, where only a handful of people were aware of Carell’s return. Kinsey recalled her shock upon seeing him on set, with a production assistant revealing his presence after spotting him in hair and makeup.
Carell’s brief but impactful return as Michael Scott provided a nostalgic closure for fans, honoring his character while keeping the focus on the rest of the cast.