At a recent New York screening event for the upcoming series “Echo Valley”, actor Domhnall Gleeson opened up exclusively to PEOPLE about why comparing his new project, “The Paper”, to “The Office” would be a ‘massive mistake’. Gleeson, known for his roles in “Harry Potter” and “Star Wars”, plays the character of Ned in “The Paper”, a mockumentary comedy centred around a struggling Midwestern newspaper. The series, created by Greg Daniels, the mastermind behind “The Office”, is set to premiere on Peacock in September 2025. Gleeson highlighted the differences between his character and the iconic Michael Scott played by Steve Carell in “The Office”, emphasising the unique approach taken in developing Ned.
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When asked about the comparisons to the beloved characters from “The Office”, Gleeson shared his admiration for Carell and Gervais, who portrayed similar roles in the original UK series. He expressed the importance of creating a new character in “The Paper” rather than trying to emulate the genius performances of his predecessors. Gleeson’s portrayal of Ned offers a fresh perspective on the mockumentary-style comedy, setting it apart from the legacy of “The Office” while still promising an engaging and entertaining storyline for viewers.
The talented actor, who hails from a family of performers including his father Brendan Gleeson and younger brother Brian Gleeson, also discussed the valuable advice he has received from his family over the years. Despite coming from an acting background, Gleeson highlighted the support and guidance he receives from his non-industry family members, emphasising the importance of their unwavering encouragement during challenging times. This sense of solidarity within his family has been instrumental in his career growth and personal development.
In addition to his role in “The Paper”, Gleeson is set to star in the upcoming Apple TV+ series “Echo Valley” alongside Julianne Moore and Sydney Sweeney. The show delves into the complex dynamics between a mother and daughter, exploring themes of reconciliation and personal struggles. Gleeson’s character, Jackie, adds depth to the narrative by portraying a manipulative yet intriguing persona who influences the lives of those around him. His versatility as an actor shines through in his portrayal of Jackie, showcasing his ability to delve into intricate character dynamics with finesse.
Reflecting on his experience working on “Echo Valley”, Gleeson shared his insights into portraying a character like Jackie, who navigates morally grey territory within the storyline. His portrayal of a manipulator seeking vulnerable targets adds layers to the narrative, offering a nuanced perspective on complex relationships and personal motivations. Gleeson’s dedication to bringing authenticity and depth to his characters is evident in his approach to embodying Jackie’s persona, providing viewers with a compelling and thought-provoking performance.
Aside from his current projects, Gleeson also shed light on the guidance he received from John Krasinski, known for his role as Jim Halpert in “The Office”. Krasinski’s advice to Gleeson to embrace new challenges and opportunities resonated with the Irish actor, encouraging him to fully commit to his role in “The Paper”. Gleeson’s willingness to explore diverse characters and narratives reflects his commitment to honing his craft and pushing boundaries in his acting career.
As “The Paper” gears up for its highly-anticipated release, fans can look forward to witnessing Domhnall Gleeson’s unique portrayal of Ned and the distinctive comedic charm he brings to the mockumentary series. With his stellar track record and versatile acting skills, Gleeson continues to captivate audiences with his on-screen presence and compelling performances, solidifying his status as a standout talent in the entertainment industry.