**Ellie Kemper Reflects on Iconic Characters and Their Futures at AT&T Event**
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Ellie Kemper, best known for her roles in Netflix’s *Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt* and NBC’s *The Office*, recently shared her thoughts on where her beloved characters might be today. This reflection took place during the AT&T Business Small Business Appreciation event held at Rolling Greens in Los Angeles, where she was part of a panel discussion and film screening featuring several of her former co-stars.

During the event, Kemper was approached with a curious question: what would her character Kimmy Schmidt, the optimistic protagonist who escapes a cult and attempts to navigate life in New York City, be doing if she were to launch a small business in 2026? Kemper entertained the idea, suggesting that Kimmy might collaborate with her fictional friend Titus Burgess to establish a winery, playfully hinting at the type of wine they would produce—Pinot Noir.
*Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt*, which aired from 2015 to 2019, revolves around Kimmy’s journey towards reintegration into society, supported by her actor roommate Titus and wealthy socialite Jacqueline, portrayed by Jane Krakowski. The series has garnered a devoted following, largely due to its unique storytelling and relatable characters.
In addition to her musings on Kimmy, Kemper expressed her hopes for Erin Hannon, her character from *The Office*. Introduced in the show’s fifth season as the receptionist at Dunder Mifflin, Erin has a complicated romantic history with Andy Bernard, and her journey culminates in a relationship with Pete Miller by the series’ conclusion. When asked about Erin’s post-*Office* life, Kemper optimistically wished for her character to find happiness and perhaps pursue a career in hospitality, reinforcing her inherent desire to bring joy to others.
Reinforcing the bonds formed during their time on *The Office*, Kemper and her fellow cast members, including Craig Robinson, Angela Kinsey, Creed Bratton, and Oscar Nuñez, maintain a strong friendship supported by a dedicated group chat titled “The Office Peeps.” Kinsey fondly recalled how they share personal milestones, such as the recent celebration of her daughter turning 18, underscoring the special camaraderie that has persisted long after the show wrapped up in 2013.
The panel not only highlighted their enduring friendship but also served to promote their involvement in AT&T Business’ new short film campaign, *Wake Up with Craig*, which sheds light on the realities of small business ownership. Kemper reflected on the fortune of being cast in *The Office*, describing it as a “gift of a lifetime” and an experience that cultivated genuine connections among the cast members.
Kemper also touched upon the show’s broad appeal, noting how viewers often see reflections of people from their own lives in the characters. She articulated what many fans likely feel, stating, “There’s a character for everyone in your life.” This fundamental ability to connect with audiences is perhaps one of the key reasons why both *The Office* and *Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt* have remained relevant and cherished by fans around the globe.
As much as Kemper mentioned her characters, it was clear that her affection for the ensemble casts of these shows remains strong. The friendships forged during production contribute significantly to her fond memories, and the shared experiences continue to provide joy long after the cameras stopped rolling.
In concluding her thoughts, Kemper expressed gratitude for the genuine friendships cultivated through her work in comedy and the meaningful impact of her roles. Both *Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt* and *The Office* have become cultural touchstones, allowing not just for laughter and entertainment but nurturing a sense of community among fans and actors alike.
As the event drew to a close, Kemper left the audience with a reminder of the importance of connection—both on-screen and off—and a hopeful message for anyone who has ever felt out of place, much like her characters.
