The 25th anniversary of the iconic British sitcom The Office is approaching, and fans are eagerly awaiting a celebration of the show's enduring legacy. However, a surprise announcement has left some fans feeling disappointed: Ricky Gervais, the show's co-creator and star, will not be participating in the BBC's special tribute episode.
Gervais has instead chosen to commemorate the occasion with his own special on YouTube, which will incorporate elements of his upcoming Netflix animated comedy series Alley Cats. The BBC's Remembers retrospective series will air a special episode featuring Martin Freeman and Mackenzie Crook, who played office coworkers David Brent and Gareth, respectively.
The Slough-based Wernham Hogg paper company, the show's setting, catapulted onto our screens 25 years ago, launching the careers of its cast and spawning a successful US version. The BBC's special episode will feature the show's stars sharing their memories of making the sitcom in the early 2000s, as well as reflecting on its lasting impact on television.
A source close to the situation expressed disappointment that Gervais will not be participating in the BBC's special episode. However, Gervais's representatives clarified that there is no rift between the comedian and the BBC, and that he was simply not available to take part in the special. Instead, he will be releasing his own content on YouTube, which will also coincide with the release of Alley Cats on Netflix.
The episode synopsis for the BBC's special episode reads: "It's been more than 15 years since the pair last laid eyes on each other, but the groundbreaking comedy's 25th anniversary has brought them together once again." Martin Freeman and Mackenzie Crook will share their memories of working with Gervais and co-writer Stephen Merchant, and fellow cast member Lucy Davis, who played Tim's love interest Dawn.
The Office episode of Remembers will air on Wednesday, July 8 at 10pm on BBC Two and iPlayer. Fans can also look forward to Gervais's own special on YouTube, which will provide a unique perspective on the show's anniversary.
