Shakeup At The Office of the Day: James Spader is a one-season man according to sources at NBC.
Steve Carell’s Office replacement — who later took over for Kathy Bates as well — will be departing at the end of the current season.
Office executive producer and writer Paul Lieberstein (who also plays Toby) said Spader “always wanted this to be a one year arc, and he now leaves us having created one of the most enigmatic and dynamic characters in television.”
He expressed his gratitude to the Secretary actor for “helping us successfully transition into the post-Michael Scott years.”
Spader’s lead may soon be followed by others, leaving the question of a ninth season pickup lacking an unequivocal response.
Head writer Daniel Chun may soon jump ship to ABC after signing an overall deal, and writer Mindy Kaling, who plays Kelly, could move to Fox with her new comedy project, which was recently ordered to series.
A spin-off featuring Rainn Wilson as Dwight Schrute is also rumored to be in the works.
[thr.]
