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Mike Birbiglia's Working It Out
140. Stephen Merchant: 6 Foot 7 and Co-Created The Office
Aug 12, 2024
This week, Stephen Merchant, co-creator of iconic shows like 'The Office' and 'Extras,' joins the conversation. He shares actionable advice for emerging creatives and dives into the behind-the-scenes politics of his successful collaborations with Ricky Gervais. Stephen hilariously recounts a moment from a Hollywood party where he walked through a glass door and teases a stand-up bit about interviewing a pornstar. The discussion also touches on the complexities of comedy casting in the UK versus the US.
01:04:34
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Quick takeaways
- Stephen Merchant highlights the benefits of low-budget production, allowing for creative risks that shaped the unique style of The Office.
- He emphasizes the importance of vulnerability in storytelling, arguing that revealing one's true self enhances comedic impact and audience connection.
Deep dives
Stephen Merchant's Comedy Roots
Stephen Merchant discusses his journey in comedy, highlighting how he co-created iconic shows like The Office and Extras with Ricky Gervais. He shares that the initial idea for The Office came from experiences at a radio station, where they improvised skits about office life. The low-budget nature of the original British Office allowed them to take creative risks that defined the series' unique style. Merchant emphasizes the blend of humor and genuine emotion they aimed for, revolutionizing comedic storytelling on television.
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Discover
highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode