Jenna Fischer, known for her iconic role as Pam Beesley on NBC’s “The Office,” recently defended the later seasons of the beloved sitcom during her podcast “Office Ladies.” Having revisited all 201 episodes, which concluded its nine-season rewatch in October, Fischer asserted that the series maintained its quality throughout its entire run from 2005 to 2013.
Addressing the common belief that “The Office” declined after Steve Carell, who played Michael Scott, departed in season 7, Fischer expressed her disagreement. “There’s this narrative that we hit our peak in seasons 3 or 4,” she explained in her conversation with comedians Dana Carvey and David Spade. However, Fischer highlighted that some of her favorite episodes were actually from seasons 8 and 9, showcasing strong storylines that continued to engage viewers.
Among the standout moments she reminisced about were episodes like the “Dinner Party” from season 4, which is known for its awkward yet hilarious depiction of a get-together at Michael’s home, and the storyline where Michael starts the Michael Scott Paper Company, featured in season 5. “That’s just great TV,” she stated emphatically.
Fischer also opened up about her mixed feelings regarding her performance on the show. While she often recognizes moments of excellence in her portrayal, there are instances she feels embarrassed by. “Sometimes I watch it and think, ‘I’ll never do work that good again,’ but then there are scenes where I just cringe,” she shared, revealing the complexities of reflecting on her own work.
This reflective perspective on the later seasons of “The Office” serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of the series and its ability to continually resonate with audiences, even beyond its original airing. As fans continue to celebrate the show’s impact, Fischer’s defense of its later episodes reinforces that every season contributed valuable moments to its narrative tapestry.