A Look Back on The Paper Pilot

Key Takeaways

The Office Ladies podcast is re-watching the spin-off series "The Paper", beginning with its pilot episode.
"The Paper" chronicles a struggling local newspaper in Toledo, Ohio, owned by Dunder Mifflin's parent company.
The spin-off features returning "The Office" cast members, including Oscar Nunez, alongside new characters and familiar set elements.
Creators Greg Daniels and Michael Koman offer insights into the show's premise, production challenges, and connections to "The Office" universe.

The "Office Ladies 6.0" podcast introduces a re-watch of "The Paper" spin-off, with new episodes beginning in January 2026.
The pilot was written and directed by Greg Daniels and Michael Koman, featuring an extended runtime compared to "The Office."
The creators discussed the show's timely premise of a struggling newspaper relying on amateur staff, mirroring real-world industry trends.

Oscar's involvement in "The Paper" spin-off was kept secret from even close contacts until its announcement.
News of his participation became public, potentially due to filming at Universal Studios.
Despite signing a release in 2005, Oscar is depicted as a reluctant participant, avoiding cameras in the first four episodes.

"The Paper" pilot opens with exterior shots of the Scranton Business Park, featuring businesses like Vance Refrigeration and One and Done Laser Eye Surgery.
The interior of the former Dunder Mifflin offices shows changes including hardwood floors and a new reception desk.
Bob Vance of Vance Refrigeration appears, and actress Phyllis Lapin-Vance decided not to relocate to Toledo.

"The Paper" spin-off restored the "Scranton Business Sign Park" and utilized Universal Studios lot sets for locations like Vance Refrigeration.
Hosts Jenna Fischer and Angela Kinsey recount hiding from a Universal Studios tour bus to keep the production rumors contained.
Angela Kinsey describes an emotional return to the "Office" set, noting the Dunder Mifflin area was transformed into a laser hair removal business.

The series introduces "The Toledo Truth Teller," a local newspaper with a significantly reduced staff.
A flashback to a 1971 black and white documentary about the newspaper features publisher John Stack, played by Tony Award winner Tracy Letts.
The present-day staff includes Mare, a young compositor played by Chelsea Fry, who formats stories from the AP wire.

"The Paper's" theme song, composed by Nick Thornburn and Patrick Ford, was recorded by Bob Field and the Scrand Tones, who also performed "The Office" theme.
The series introduces Esmeralda, played by Sabrina Impeatore, who manages "TTT Online," emphasizing its lack of space limitations.
Esmeralda showcases an extensive "long-form journalism" piece about Ben Affleck's tipping habits, detailing a $300 tip.

A memorable moment features Esmeralda, played by Sabrina Impeatore, humorously flirting with the camera, a favorite for its "brilliant" acting.
Oscar reacts negatively to being filmed, running to the bathroom and emphasizing his non-consent, despite having signed a release in 2005.
The accounting team includes Adalola and Adam, played by writers Bimasola Icomello and Alex Edelman.

Ned Sampson, played by Donald Gleason, arrives as an idealistic new employee at "The Truth Teller," idolizing Clark Kent for his newspaper work.
His arrival includes humorous incidents like accidentally knocking over Mayor's salad and being locked in the copy room by Nicole.
Ned's career path is revealed, including a transfer from Softies in Chicago to the Toledo newspaper.

The "Office" tradition of featuring crew members on set props continues in "The Paper."
Ned Sampson's plans to overhaul operations and cancel the wire service are met with distrust from Esmeralda.
Esmeralda actively undermines Ned, sending an email to staff clarifying he was not "me too'd," which Ned finds problematic due to its implications.

Ned Sampson addresses the bullpen from a desk, revealing the historical newspaper office set design with columns and arched windows.
An "Office" easter egg is spotted: Oscar's desk features the scarecrow doll Michael Scott gifted him in the 'Goodbye Michael' episode.
Adalola is also seen wearing sparkly, hot pink bedazzled boots.