Exclusive: Domhnall Gleeson Discusses His Role In 'The Paper,' The 'The Office' Spin-off

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Post on May 14, 2025

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Exclusive: Domhnall Gleeson on His 'The Paper' Role and Stepping Out of 'The Office' Shadow

Domhnall Gleeson, the acclaimed actor known for his roles in Star Wars, Ex Machina, and even a brief stint in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1, is stepping into a new comedic arena. In a world far, far away from the galaxy far, far away, and a significant departure from his dramatic roles, Gleeson takes center stage in The Paper, a highly anticipated spin-off of the iconic British sitcom, The Office. This exclusive interview delves into Gleeson's experience joining this beloved franchise and his character's journey.

From Galactic Empires to Office Politics: A Career Pivot

Gleeson's career has spanned diverse genres, showcasing his remarkable versatility. From the intensity of Ex Machina to the whimsical nature of About Time, he has consistently impressed audiences and critics alike. But tackling a comedic role in a much-loved sitcom presents a unique challenge, especially one stemming from the legacy of The Office.

"It was daunting, I won't lie," Gleeson admits, a hint of a smile in his voice. "Stepping into a universe as well-established and beloved as The Office is a massive responsibility. But the team behind The Paper were so welcoming and supportive. They encouraged me to bring my own interpretation to the role, which was incredibly liberating."

His Character in The Paper: A Fresh Take on Office Dynamics

In The Paper, Gleeson plays Liam O'Connell, a recently hired junior reporter with an unconventional approach to journalism and office life. Unlike the iconic David Brent, Liam isn't necessarily malicious, but his naivete and often misguided attempts at professionalism lead to hilarious situations.

"Liam is a fish out of water," Gleeson explains. "He’s enthusiastic, but slightly clueless. He thinks he knows it all, but he’s constantly learning – often the hard way. He's a character with genuine heart, even if he sometimes stumbles in his execution. I think audiences will find him relatable, even if they don't necessarily approve of all his methods."

Navigating the Legacy of The Office: A Delicate Balance

The success of The Office casts a long shadow, and any spin-off inevitably faces comparisons. However, The Paper aims to forge its own identity while acknowledging its roots.

"We weren’t trying to recreate The Office," Gleeson clarifies. "This is a completely different dynamic, a new set of characters, a fresh story. But we certainly honor the spirit of the original, its observational humor and its realistic portrayal of workplace relationships."

The Paper promises to deliver a fresh take on office comedy, exploring the challenges and triumphs of a young team in a fast-paced newsroom. With Domhnall Gleeson at the helm, the show is poised to entertain both long-time fans of The Office and new audiences alike.

Key Takeaways:

• Domhnall Gleeson takes on a comedic role in The Paper, a spin-off of The Office.
• His character, Liam O'Connell, is a naive but well-meaning junior reporter.
• The show aims to create its own identity while respecting the legacy of The Office.
• Gleeson praises the supportive atmosphere on set and the freedom to interpret his role.
• The Paper is set to be a fresh and hilarious take on office dynamics.

The wait is almost over! The Paper premieres [Date] on [Network/Streaming Service].