The popular comedy show The Office will stay on Netflix for another two years following a backlash against its initial removal. It was announced in December that the sitcom would no longer be available to stream on the site in 2023, causing an outcry on social media.
Fans have been expecting the show’s removal since June 2019, when the original network, NBC, announced the series would run on its own streaming service.
The Hollywood Reporter shared details on NBCU and Netflix’s tug-of-war to host the show: “‘NBCU’s strategy was well-telegraphed, so this should come as a surprise to no one,” notes BTIG media analyst Richard Greenfield, alluding to the company’s upfront presentation in May when sales chief Linda Yaccarino told a packed Radio City Music Hall that iconic characters like Jim and Pam would be coming home.'”
The site added: “Ultimately, NBCU’s offer of $100 million per year — for five years — was deemed the winner, edging Netflix.”
However, What’s on Netflix has confirmed that The Office will remain on Netflix for another two years thanks to a last-minute deal made between Netflix and NBCU. The show will still be available to stream on Netflix in European territories until 2025.
Following its first airing on Thursday, March 24th, 2005, as an American remake of the original British series, The Office beat initial negative reviews to become one of the country’s most iconic shows. The show’s cast, Steve Carell, Rainn Wilson, John Krasinski, Jenna Fischer, and B. J. Novak, have seen massive success from the series, known for its mockumentary style and employment of camera work to garner humour.
Speaking to The Independent about a potential reunion after the show’s finale in 2013, Krasinski shared: “I would totally do it”.
“I can genuinely say I’ve never been in anything like it,” the actor added. “We all look forward to the day we can do it again. Hopefully, we find a way.”
