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Entertainment June 30, 2026

Ricky Gervais Declines The Office 25th Anniversary Reunion, Dealing a Significant Blow to BBC Celebration Plans

Ricky Gervais Declines The Office 25th Anniversary Reunion, Dealing a Significant Blow to BBC Celebration Plans

Ricky Gervais will not be joining his The Office co-stars to celebrate the show's 25th anniversary. Instead, he will be creating his own special to commemorate the occasion, which will be available on a popular video platform. The special will incorporate elements of his new animated comedy series.

The BBC will mark the show's 25th anniversary with a special episode of its retrospective series, which celebrates influential TV shows. Martin Freeman and Mackenzie Crook will reunite for a one-off tribute to the iconic sitcom. The episode will feature the pair sharing their memories of making the show and reflecting on its legacy.

The Office first aired 25 years ago, launching the careers of its cast and spawning a successful US version. The show's creators and stars, including Gervais, played a significant role in its success. However, Gervais's absence from the BBC's anniversary special has been noted, with some viewing it as a significant blow to the celebration.

Ricky Gervais and Mackenzie Crook look at the camera in a photo for The Office

Despite Gervais's absence, fans of the show will still get to hear about him during the anniversary special. Crook will share behind-the-scenes stories, including how Gervais's on-set antics often threatened to disrupt filming. The episode will also feature Freeman and Crook sharing their memories of working with Gervais and other cast members.

The anniversary special will air on July 8, featuring the cast's reflections on the show's impact and legacy. The episode will be a nostalgic look back at the show's history and its continued influence on popular culture. The special will provide a unique opportunity for fans to revisit the world of The Office and celebrate its enduring legacy.

For use in UK, Ireland or Benelux countries only Undated BBC handout photo of Award-winning actors Martin Freeman and Mackenzie Crook, who will reunite to commemorate 25 years since The Office launched in the UK. Issue date: Thursday June 25, 2026. PA Photo. Photo credit should read: BBC/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: Not for use more than 21 days after issue. You may use this picture without charge only for the purpose of publicising or reporting on current BBC programming, personnel or other BBC output or activity within 21 days of issue. Any use after that time MUST be cleared through BBC Picture Publicity. Please credit the image to the BBC and any named photographer or independent programme maker, as described in the caption. Television programme : The Office - Series 2...Picture Shows: The staff of the Slough office, starring Ricky Gervais, Martin Freeman, Lucy Davis and Mackenzie Crook. TX: BBC TWO TBC Series Two of the BAFTA winning comedy, the painfully accurate portrait of the modern work-place that leaves you either counting your blessings or questioning your career. David Brent tries to assimilate the new Swindon intake, a group of well-trained and highly motivated personnel. It should be an easy job. Sadly, someone forgot to tell them they're meant to laugh at everything David says. Unlucky-in-love Tim finds his fortune changing, we discover there's more to demure Dawn than first meets the eye, but there's even less to Gareth. WARNING: This copyright image may be used only to publicise current BBC programmes or other BBC output. Any other use whatsoever without specific prior approval from the BBC may result in legal action....BBC TWO Unmanipulated picture TBA

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