Actors Craig Robinson and Ellie Kemper, both stars of the beloved sitcom *The Office*, recently shared their insights on where their characters would be today, more than a decade after the show concluded in 2013. The popular mockumentary series ran for nine seasons, delighting audiences with its quirky characters and relatable workplace humour.
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Robinson, who portrayed warehouse employee Darryl Philbin, believes his character has found considerable success since leaving Dunder Mifflin for a career with Athlead, a sports agency founded by Jim Halpert, played by John Krasinski. “I think Darryl is very successful,” Robinson remarked during an AT&T Business Small Business Appreciation event in Los Angeles. “He has made amazing connections and is now representing several high-profile sports figures. So, we’re going to need a lot from him. We’ve got about three or four clients,” he added, suggesting a vibrant future for Darryl.
Meanwhile, Kemper, who captured hearts as Erin Hannon, reflected on her character’s potential life path. Since joining Dunder Mifflin as a receptionist in season five, Erin’s character has been through ups and downs, particularly in her on-and-off relationship with Andy Bernard, played by Ed Helms. Regarding Erin’s future, Kemper expressed hope that she has found love and perhaps shifted her career towards a job in hospitality. “I think she would still be looking to make people happy in whatever role she has,” Kemper speculated.
Throughout their careers since *The Office*, both actors have maintained a strong bond, often reconnecting with former co-stars such as Angela Kinsey, Creed Bratton, and Oscar Nuñez. Talking about this camaraderie, Robinson noted the familial atmosphere that persists among them. “We all just love each other. It’s a family situation. We don’t get together often, so when we do, it’s filled with joy and reminiscing,” he explained.
Kemper echoed this sentiment, describing her casting on the show as a “gift of a lifetime” and praising the organic friendships that developed on set. “It’s a very natural friendship that we share, which feels rare. As a viewer, I can say that there’s a character for everyone in that show. People can find someone relatable, like ‘Oh, that’s Uncle Kenny’,” she articulated.
In a reflective moment during the panel, Kinsey shared that the cast keeps the connection alive through a group chat named “The Office Peeps,” where they share personal milestones and light-hearted moments. “Creed will send you a video at Christmas of him singing,” Kinsey revealed, also mentioning the bittersweet sensation of her daughter turning 18, born shortly after the filming of one of the series’ popular episodes, “Dinner Party.”
The gathering was not only a reunion but also a platform to discuss their involvement in a new short film created for AT&T Business, highlighting the challenges of small business ownership. Robinson elaborated on the reality of running a small business, emphasising the multifaceted responsibilities owners face. “You might have to paint the store, stock everything, make calls, hire, and fire. It’s a lot going on, and it often requires a sense of humour,” he noted.
Reflecting on the enduring appeal of *The Office*, both Robinson and Kemper noted that the show’s ability to resonate with viewers is due, in part, to its relatable characters and heartfelt moments intertwined with comedic elements. The legacy of *The Office* endures because it captures universal experiences and emotions, making it cherished by fans even years later.
As the two actors continue to navigate their careers and personal lives, their ongoing friendship and fond memories from *The Office* serve as a testament to the strong bonds forged on set and the lasting impact the show has had on its cast and audience alike. The enthusiasm surrounding their reunion reminds fans that even after years apart, the spirit of *The Office* remains vibrant and relevant in today’s entertainment landscape.