After the last "that's what she said" joke landed and the final heartfelt goodbyes were exchanged, many of us felt that familiar pang: what now? For millions, The Office wasn't just a sitcom; it was a cultural touchstone, a masterclass in workplace comedy that made us laugh, cringe, and even tear up. If you're yearning for that blend of mockumentary charm, ensemble chemistry, and everyday absurdity, you're not alone. Figuring out what to watch after The Office: similar shows & spin-offs can feel like a daunting task, but rest assured, the world of television is brimming with equally brilliant, and sometimes even more innovative, series ready to fill that Dunder Mifflin-shaped hole in your heart.
This guide is for anyone who cherishes sharp writing, unforgettable characters, and the comforting chaos of a well-crafted ensemble show. We'll dive deep into spiritual successors, shows from the same creative minds, and even a few unexpected gems that capture that unique Office magic.
At a Glance: Your Post-Dunder Mifflin Playbook
- Start with the "Family Tree": Shows co-created by Greg Daniels and Michael Schur (like Parks & Recreation and Brooklyn Nine-Nine) are your safest bet for similar vibes and humor.
- Embrace the Mockumentary: If the "talking heads" and knowing glances at the camera are what you miss most, prioritize shows that stick to this format, like Abbott Elementary.
- Character is King: The Office thrived on its people. Look for shows with strong, unique ensemble casts and character-driven humor.
- Workplace Woes (and Wins): Whether it's paper, government, or hospitals, the shared experience of a professional setting often provides the best comedic fodder.
- Don't Fear the Departure: Some excellent shows share The Office's spirit but branch out in style or genre. Be open to them!
- Consider the Original: A revisit to the UK Office or its upcoming spin-off offers a fresh, albeit darker, take on the Scranton gang's roots.
The Office's Enduring Legacy: Why We Still Love It
Before we dive into your next binge, it's worth a moment to reflect on The Office itself. Originally a British creation by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant, the American adaptation, which premiered on NBC in 2005, took the mockumentary format and ran with it, crafting a nine-season saga of the employees of Dunder Mifflin Paper Company. With Steve Carell leading an unforgettable cast as regional manager Michael Scott, alongside talents like John Krasinski, Rainn Wilson, and Mindy Kaling, the show became synonymous with cringe comedy, heartwarming moments, and characters who felt like family.
Its replay value is legendary, a testament to its tight writing and the sheer depth of its characters. From Jim and Pam's iconic love story to Dwight's bizarre antics and Michael's desperate need for approval, the show captured the mundane yet hilarious reality of office life. This unique blend is precisely what makes finding a worthy follow-up both challenging and exciting.
By the way, if you're ever looking to revisit Scranton, you can find out where to stream The Office and relive every awkward moment and triumphant prank.
The Office "Family Tree": Direct Descendants and Spiritual Successors
Many of the shows that best capture The Office's essence come from the same creative minds. Greg Daniels and Michael Schur, two architects of Dunder Mifflin's success, have gone on to create a veritable empire of beloved comedies. These are often your safest bets for a smooth transition.
Parks & Recreation: The Sunshine After the Storm
If Michael Scott’s cringeworthy moments sometimes felt like too much, Parks & Recreation offers a delightful antidote with its relentlessly optimistic protagonist, Leslie Knope (Amy Poehler). Co-created by Greg Daniels and Michael Schur, this NBC mockumentary also centers on a government workplace—a local parks department in Pawnee, Indiana.
While its first season stumbled a bit, Parks & Rec quickly found its footing, evolving into a show celebrated for its lovable characters and incredible quotability. Leslie's unwavering enthusiasm, Ron Swanson's stoic libertarianism (Nick Offerman), April Ludgate's deadpan snark (Aubrey Plaza), and the entire ensemble’s genuine affection for one another make it a truly joyful watch. It offers the same ensemble chemistry and mockumentary style as The Office, but with a more overtly hopeful and less cynical tone. If you're looking for a show that will genuinely make you feel good, this is it.
Brooklyn Nine-Nine: Workplace Whodunnits with Heart
From the minds of Michael Schur and Dan Goor, Brooklyn Nine-Nine trades paper sales for police work, but retains the signature Schur touch: a quirky, tight-knit ensemble navigating a unique workplace. The series follows immature but brilliant detective Jake Peralta (Andy Samberg) and his precinct colleagues as they learn to work under the stoic, by-the-book Captain Raymond Holt (Andre Braugher).
Initially airing on Fox before being rescued by NBC, Brooklyn Nine-Nine blends the lovable character dynamics of Parks & Rec with workplace politics and "found family" themes reminiscent of The Office. It manages to be consistently funny, engaging, and genuinely heartwarming, all while tackling real-world issues with grace and wit. The cast, including Stephanie Beatriz, Terry Crews, Melissa Fumero, and Joe Lo Truglio, delivers laugh after laugh, making it an easy recommendation for anyone missing their favorite Dunder Mifflin crew.
Abbott Elementary: Mockumentary for Modern Times
One of the freshest and most universally praised entries in the mockumentary genre, Abbott Elementary feels like a direct spiritual descendant of The Office in the best possible way. Created by and starring Quinta Brunson as Janine Teagues, this ABC series is set at an underfunded elementary school in West Philadelphia.
The humor is pitch-perfect, focusing on the dedicated, if slightly naive, teachers trying to make the best of a bad situation, all while navigating the eccentricities of their colleagues and the challenges of an inner-city school system. Much like The Office, it uses the mockumentary format to highlight the absurdity and heart of everyday work life. With a fantastic ensemble cast including Tyler James Williams, Sheryl Lee Ralph, and Janelle James as the hilariously narcissistic Principal Ava, Abbott Elementary offers pure wholesomeness and sharp wit, proving the mockumentary style is far from played out.
St. Denis Medical: The New Kid on the Block
Looking for something truly new but still firmly rooted in the Office tradition? St. Denis Medical is a new NBC workplace sitcom that continues the mockumentary style, this time set in an underfunded hospital in Oregon. It features comedy veterans Wendy McLendon-Covey (as an overly optimistic executive director) and David Alan Grier (as a jaded physician).
The show's executive director, Joyce, is even described as a blend of Michael Scott and Janine Teagues—promising big laughs and genuine heart. With a second season already ordered before its first fully aired, St. Denis Medical shows strong potential to become your next favorite workplace comedy, offering a fresh take on the familiar genre.
Beyond the Mockumentary: Ensemble Workplace Comedies with The Office's Spirit
While the mockumentary format is a key ingredient for some, The Office's appeal also lay in its portrayal of a strong, quirky ensemble navigating the daily grind. These shows may not have talking heads, but they deliver on character chemistry, workplace humor, and memorable moments.
30 Rock: A Satirical Powerhouse
If you appreciated The Office's sharp writing and ability to find humor in corporate absurdity, Tina Fey's 30 Rock is a must-watch. This NBC sitcom offers a satirical, behind-the-scenes look at a fictional sketch comedy show and its head writer, Liz Lemon (Tina Fey). Her world is constantly challenged by conservative executive Jack Donaghy (Alec Baldwin) and the unpredictable star comic Tracy Jordan (Tracy Morgan).
While not a mockumentary, 30 Rock was groundbreaking for its rapid-fire jokes, surreal premises, and daring social commentary. It's a show that packs more laughs and references into a single episode than many series do in an entire season. If you're ready for fast-paced wit, ridiculous guest stars, and a distinctly New York flavor of workplace chaos, 30 Rock will not disappoint.
Superstore: Retail Relatability
Superstore is a hidden gem that many fans of The Office adore, and for good reason. Set in a fictional big-box retail store called Cloud 9, this workplace sitcom perfectly balances broad comedy with poignant commentary on social issues. Over six seasons, it developed a strong heart, a charming ensemble cast, and incredibly relatable scenarios from the retail world.
Like Dunder Mifflin, Cloud 9 is a place where a diverse group of employees forms an unlikely family, navigating everything from corporate policies to personal dramas. The show's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic in its final season was particularly praised, showcasing its ability to blend humor with real-world relevance. If you're looking for a show that understands the mundane frustrations and surprising joys of working a "regular" job, Superstore is a perfect fit.
Scrubs: Medical Shenanigans and Heart
Trading the paper factory for a hospital, Scrubs delivers a workplace comedy that masterfully blends laughter with genuine emotion. The series follows the lives of medical interns J.D. (Zach Braff) and Turk (Donald Faison) as they navigate Sacred Heart Hospital, mentored (or tormented) by the brilliant but curmudgeonly Dr. Perry Cox (John C. McGinley).
Scrubs excels at character development, building deep, believable relationships within its ensemble. While its style is more surreal and features J.D.'s frequent internal monologues and fantasy sequences, it shares The Office's ability to extract both laugh-out-loud humor and profound emotional depth from a professional setting. If you appreciate the found family aspect and the blend of comedy and drama, Scrubs is an excellent choice.
The IT Crowd: British Byte-Sized Brilliance
If you enjoyed the dry wit and awkwardness of the original UK Office, then The IT Crowd is probably already on your radar—or should be. This British show, created by Graham Linehan, focuses on three socially awkward IT employees in the basement of a London corporation: slacker Roy (Chris O'Dowd), genius Maurice (Richard Ayoade), and their technologically clueless manager, Jen (Katherine Parkinson).
With only six episodes per season, The IT Crowd delivers highly concentrated, absurd humor. It's known for its memorable catchphrases, outrageous scenarios, and hilarious character dynamics. While a planned American adaptation never made it past the pilot, the original series remains a cult classic. It’s available on BritBox and is perfect for a quick, laugh-out-loud binge.
Mythic Quest: Level Up Your Laughs
For those who appreciate the quirks of The Office's specific work environment, Mythic Quest offers a fascinating dive into the world of video game development. This Apple TV Plus series centers on the eccentric individuals behind a hugely popular online game, led by the egomaniacal creative director Ian Grimm (Rob McElhenney) and his complicated relationship with lead engineer Poppy Li (Charlotte Nicdao).
The show finds humor in the clash of creative egos, corporate aspirations, and the unique personalities that thrive in the tech industry. Like The Office, it excels at building a vibrant, believable workplace where colleagues are both allies and adversaries, often within the same scene. If you like your workplace comedy with a side of modern tech culture and strong character arcs, Mythic Quest is a fantastic, underrated option.
Veep: The Vice Presidency, Unfiltered
If what you loved most about The Office was the sharp, character-driven dialogue and the biting satire of corporate (or governmental) ineptitude, then HBO's Veep is essential viewing. Starring Julia Louis-Dreyfus as Selina Meyer, the US Vice President (and later President), this political satire is renowned for its vicious insults, rapid-fire wit, and unparalleled performances.
While not a mockumentary, Veep offers an uncomfortably close and often hilarious look at the backroom machinations and petty power struggles of Washington D.C. The ensemble cast, including Tony Hale as Selina's fiercely loyal aide Gary, is impeccable. It won 17 Emmys for a reason, proving that even the highest offices can be ripe for Office-esque levels of awkwardness and absurdity.
Space Force: Carell's Return to the Workplace
Fans missing Steve Carell’s comedic genius in a workplace setting will want to check out Space Force. Reuniting Carell with Office co-creator Greg Daniels, this Netflix series is a workplace sitcom parodying the newly formed U.S. Space Force. Carell stars as General Mark Naird, a four-star general tasked with heading this ambitious new military branch.
While its first season received mixed reviews, the second season found its groove, blending silliness with political satire and allowing its stellar cast—including John Malkovich, Tawny Newsome, and Ben Schwartz—to shine. It offers a fresh take on Carell's signature humor, albeit in a much larger, more absurd "office."
Character-Driven Comedies That Nail The Office's Vibe
Sometimes, it's not the setting or the style, but the characters that draw you in. The Office excelled at crafting deeply flawed, yet lovable, individuals. These shows might venture outside the typical workplace but deliver on that rich character development and ensemble chemistry.
Community: A Meta-Comedy Masterpiece
For those who appreciate The Office's ability to play with comedic tropes and develop deeply eccentric characters, Community is a revelation. From Rick & Morty co-creator Dan Harmon, this NBC sitcom follows a motley study group at a community college, led by disbarred lawyer Jeff Winger (Joel McHale).
What starts as a fairly conventional sitcom quickly evolves into a meta-comedy, constantly referencing television tropes, pop culture, and its own inside jokes. With standout "out-there" episodes that play with genre (like "Modern Warfare" or "Remedial Chaos Theory"), Community is inventive, hilarious, and genuinely heartfelt. Despite some behind-the-scenes turmoil and cast changes, its best seasons are pure comedic genius, offering a rich world of characters to fall in love with.
Arrested Development: Narrated Family Dysfunction
While not a mockumentary in the traditional sense, Arrested Development employs documentary-like elements, including handheld filming and the iconic voiceover narration by Ron Howard, which adds an ironic, contextual layer to the Bluth family's chaotic lives. Michael Bluth (Jason Bateman) attempts to keep his incredibly dysfunctional, wealthy real estate family together after his father is arrested.
Known for its intricate running gags, dense jokes, and a brilliant ensemble cast (Jessica Walter as Lucille, Will Arnett as Gob, David Cross as Tobias), the first three seasons of Arrested Development are widely considered a pinnacle of American comedy. If you loved the subtle callbacks and the ensemble's ability to create a truly unique world in The Office, you'll find similar satisfaction here, albeit with a much more absurd and complex family dynamic.
The Good Place: Philosophy, Humor, and Heart
Another Michael Schur creation, The Good Place offers a profound yet hilarious exploration of ethics and the afterlife. Starring Kristen Bell as Eleanor Shellstrop, a woman mistakenly sent to the "Good Place," the series features a strong ensemble cast, including Ted Danson as the architect of her neighborhood, Michael, and D'Arcy Carden as the all-knowing AI, Janet.
Much like The Office's ability to blend humor with genuine warmth, The Good Place is known for its lovable characters, brilliant season and series arcs, and an endearing finale that will leave you thinking. It’s consistently laugh-out-loud funny while also being incredibly smart and emotionally resonant. If you appreciate shows that make you think as much as they make you laugh, this is a must-see.
Ted Lasso: Optimism Personified
If the heartwarming moments and character growth from The Office resonated with you, then Ted Lasso might be your perfect next watch. Jason Sudeikis stars as the titular American football coach who moves to England to manage a Premier League soccer team, despite knowing nothing about the sport.
The show champions positivity, teamwork, and kindness, with Ted's relentless optimism serving as his superpower in a cynical world. It’s a show about building genuine connections, overcoming adversity, and the power of believing in people. While not a workplace comedy in the Dunder Mifflin vein, it's a character-driven ensemble piece that radiates warmth and humor, focusing on how a positive leader can transform an entire team—much like Jim, Pam, and Michael sometimes did for each other.
Party Down: Catering to Your Comedic Needs
Party Down is an understated gem that delivers sharp, character-driven comedy set in the world of a catering company. Starring Adam Scott (another Parks & Rec alum) as Henry Pollard, a former one-hit-wonder actor, the show follows a rotating cast of aspiring actors, writers, and restaurateurs working thankless catering gigs in Los Angeles.
Each episode centers around a different event, allowing for fresh comedic scenarios and guest stars, while still developing the core ensemble's individual ambitions and frustrations. It's a show that understands the mundane yet hilarious reality of service industry jobs, much like The Office understood cubicle life. With its quick wit and strong ensemble, Party Down is an excellent choice for those who appreciate character-focused humor and dry observations about human nature.
Detroiters: Unhinged Advertising Hilarity
For fans of off-beat, slightly unhinged humor, Detroiters offers a unique comedic experience. Starring best friends Sam Richardson and Tim Robinson (both from I Think You Should Leave fame) as Sam and Tim, the show follows their struggling advertising agency in Detroit.
With little common sense and an abundance of absurdity, they tackle quirky local ad campaigns, generating hilariously awkward situations and surprisingly heartfelt moments. It has a distinct voice and a strong sense of place, making it a great pick if you loved the sheer unpredictability and character-driven eccentricities found in characters like Dwight or Creed.
Unique Twists on Office Dynamics: Sci-Fi, Fantasy, and Animation
Sometimes, the best way to move on from The Office is to embrace something completely different, yet still find echoes of its brilliance in unexpected places. These shows offer unique premises but deliver on ensemble dynamics, character studies, or satirical takes on corporate culture.
What We Do In The Shadows: Vampire Roommates, Mockumentary Style
If you loved the mockumentary style and the absurd character dynamics of The Office but are ready for a supernatural twist, What We Do In The Shadows is an absolute riot. Originating from a film by Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi, this FX series follows a group of ancient vampires living together in Staten Island, New York, along with their long-suffering familiar, Guillermo.
The show uses the mockumentary format to brilliant effect, capturing the mundane squabbles and existential crises of immortal beings trying to blend into modern society. The vampires (Nandor, Laszlo, Nadja, and energy vampire Colin Robinson) are delightfully unlikable yet utterly captivating, much like the more eccentric members of the Dunder Mifflin staff. Its absurdist tone and unique premise make it a fresh, hilarious, and surprisingly relatable take on the "found family" sitcom.
Severance: Corporate Culture, Sci-Fi Thriller
For those who appreciated The Office's underlying critique of corporate culture and the often nonsensical nature of office life, but are craving something with more intrigue, Severance on Apple TV+ is a phenomenal, albeit tonally distinct, choice. This sci-fi drama is set at Lumon Industries, where employees undergo a "severance" procedure that surgically separates their work memories from their personal memories.
Adam Scott (yes, Ben Wyatt from Parks & Rec) stars as Mark S., a "macrodata refiner" who begins to question the nature of his existence at Lumon. While it's a thriller, not a comedy, Severance deeply explores the relationship between employees and employers, the dehumanizing aspects of corporate life, and the bizarre rituals that define our working days. It's a brilliant, thought-provoking series for viewers who enjoy a deeper dive into workplace psychology.
Harley Quinn: Animated Antics, Boss Babe Edition
If you appreciated The Office's journey of characters trying to find their place and build their own success (and maybe some relationship drama!), the animated Harley Quinn series is a surprisingly good fit. After breaking up with the Joker, Harley Quinn (voiced by Kaley Cuoco) strikes out on her own to become Gotham’s top villain, forming her own crew along the way.
The show is a fast-paced, irreverent, and incredibly funny take on the DC universe, with a strong focus on Harley's self-discovery and her evolving relationship with her best friend, Poison Ivy (Lake Bell). It’s about building a team, navigating complicated professional (and romantic) relationships, and finding your own version of "being the boss." It’s an R-rated, action-packed comedy that offers a fresh and hilarious perspective on what it means to lead a dysfunctional "office" of supervillains.
Revisit the Roots: The Original Office & The Future
Sometimes, the best way to find something similar is to go back to where it all began, or look forward to what's next in the franchise.
The Office (UK): The Darker, Sharper Original
Before Michael Scott, there was David Brent. The original UK version of The Office, created by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant, is a much darker, ruder, and significantly shorter (14 episodes plus specials) beast. Gervais stars as the insensitive general manager of a paper company, providing the prototype for the cringe-heavy humor that the US version would adapt and expand upon.
If you appreciate the raw, uncomfortable humor and a more grounded, melancholic tone, a revisit to the UK Office offers a fascinating perspective on the show's origins. It’s a masterclass in mockumentary realism and shows just how much thematic ground could be covered in a concise format.
The Paper: A New Spin-Off on the Horizon
Exciting news for Dunder Mifflin die-hards! A new spin-off, reportedly titled The Paper, is planned for Peacock. While details are still emerging, it's expected to explore a new workplace with fresh characters, presumably maintaining the mockumentary style and unique blend of humor that made the original so iconic. Keep an eye out for more information on this one—it could be the ultimate follow-up to The Office you've been waiting for.
Making Your Pick: A Quick Decision Guide
With so many fantastic options, how do you choose? Consider what you loved most about The Office:
- If you miss the mockumentary style most: Go for Parks & Recreation, Abbott Elementary, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, or What We Do In The Shadows.
- If you love ensemble casts and quirky characters: Dive into Community, Arrested Development, The Good Place, or Superstore.
- If you crave sharp, satirical workplace humor: Try 30 Rock, Veep, Mythic Quest, or Scrubs.
- If you want more Steve Carell (or Greg Daniels' touch): Space Force is your next stop.
- If you're ready for something a bit different but still character-focused: Ted Lasso, Severance, or Harley Quinn offer fresh takes.
- If you prefer British dry wit: The IT Crowd and the original The Office (UK) are perfect.
Ultimately, the beauty of The Office's legacy is how it opened the door for so many other brilliant comedies that explore the humor and humanity found in everyday situations.
Finding Your Next Favorite Show
Moving on from a beloved series like The Office is never easy. It's like saying goodbye to old friends. But the good news is, the television landscape is rich with shows that capture different facets of what made Dunder Mifflin so special. Whether you're looking for another mockumentary, a show from the same creative family, or just a really good character-driven comedy, there's a world of laughter and heart waiting for you. Dive in, experiment, and who knows? Your next all-time favorite show might just be a click away.