Ricky Gervais Compares The American And British "The Office" | Letterman

Ricky discusses his early career aspirations, bringing "The Office" to America and more.
(From "Late Show," air date: 10/7/03)
#rickygervais #theoffice #letterman
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[@kapeel2008]

Letterman is genuinely listening and responding to Gervais. Doesn't feel fake like so many shows today

[@charlieparkeris]

Late night ended when he retired. Well, Conan was decent, but there's nobody left now who does it well.

[@TonyEnglandUK]

@@charlieparkeris I'm a Brit and I never understood why some Americans didn't like Letterman, I always found him to be a very funny and entertaining host. He really put some superb humour into his interviews.

[@HorizonXD]

That's why he's the GOAT.

[@catchbooker7257]

Their both sharp stand ups.

[@terracottapie]

🚨🚨🚨CONGRATULATIONS!!!! 🚨🚨🚨 You are the 100th boomer in this thread to say "this thing in the video is not as good as the old days"!! Your prize is a six (6) month supply of Ensure™nutritional shakes, and two free passes to live shuffleboard!

[@stepha5926]

Such a humble down-to-earth interview... and who would have thought 15 years later, he's become the most legendary host of any awards show in the history of award shows.

[@HoodBabyJavey]

And THE premiere narcissist of britain. His colleagues think he's trash now

[@daveinpublic]

@@HoodBabyJavey I dont think the Brit’s are that happy about any negative comments towards their country - I’ve noticed that in online communities for a long time. Gervais is okay saying negative things about England and they get upset about it.

[@HoodBabyJavey]

@@daveinpublic Yeah that's a very good point man, they make fun of everyone from the welsh (Sheepf**kers) to the french (War losers) but don't EVER say anything bad about the motherland lol. TRUE patriots in Britain.

[@ihateunicorns867]

A humble, pleasant, funny guy here. 15 years later he's an obnoxious bigot.

[@stepha5926]

@@ihateunicorns867 a BIGOT?? 🙄 Lemme guess, you're English?

[@richardkelbie7726]

The office in UK when it came out many people thought it was a real documentary haha

[@lucaspiaceski]

It was nice when the talk show host and the guest didn't pretend to be best friends.

[@rrrock]

Now that Letterman is gone, I realize how good he was.

[@olebaltasar6263]

At the time when this show was recorded I was already complaining about how tv, music and movies were better in the 80s. In the 80s, people were having the same complaints. And still, things are not really getting worse.

[@dan4992]

Thats never been a thing, Ricky just doesnt care

[@dannyarcher6370]

@@rrrock Conan was the last of the type.

[@lepideba-chilllord931]

like that fake ass Fallon & Nsync gay guy..

[@LorchVHS]

Dave seemed to actually appreciate Ricky & the Office. Genuine ppreciation.

[@MrSpencerMcIntosh]

agreed, men need more genuine pp-preciation.

[@ReinhardP]

Yes, I noticed that as well, because he didn't interrupt Ricky every 15 seconds.

[@majordbag2]

That's because he's a much better host than Colbert.

[@TonyEnglandUK]

I think it was in the very next interview with Ricky that Dave described "The Office" as; _"Possibly the best television show ever."_

[@ownpetard8379]

@@MrSpencerMcIntosh "...Talking 'bout my pp-preciation!"

[@lancebaylis3169]

The difference on a structural level is that the British one leans a lot more into verisimilitude -- it's essentially a workplace mockumentary. The US Office, which is brilliant by the way, largely abandoned that except in the superficial way it was shot. It's MUCH more sitcom-y, it bases more of it's scenarios around joke and payoff where the original was simply content to let the humour come out of the situations and wasn't afraid to have genuinely uncomfortable moments too. The British Office is a work of art, full of real moments, some funny, some tragic. The American Office is more of a sitcom. A darn good one, but a sitcom nonetheless.

[@TheGeneralDisarray]

I think this is a pretty accurate comparison

[@gbisaga]

I'm sorry but I totally disagree. Verisimilitude in the UK one? We like to joke about pointy-haired bosses, but in real life very, very few people get to position like branch manager without some kind of abilities. And when is the last time you actually knew a person - I don't mean saw on TV, but a person you really knew - who had absolutely no good attributes whatsoever? IMO the US version was much more true-to-life. Was the UK version a better mockumentary? Maybe - I'm not sure what makes a great one - but no way was it true to any real life I know.

[@Th3DarkCanuck]

Verisimilitude? Shut up Lance.

[@MaritimeFox]

@M I agree with you. A lot of people fail upwards and get promoted purely to get them out of the way and then they go on to cause havoc at the next level.

[@Simon1985_]

@@gbisaga Brent does have good attributes and has some capability in his role as general manager. He demonstrates the former by wanting to be a good friend and mentor to his colleagues whilst standing up to his best friend/bully when he insults someone he cares about; and the latter by working in the industry for 8 years and “increasing profitability by 17% without losing a single member of staff”. He’s not wholly incompetent but he is a bit of an idiot who puts his image ahead of his work (eventually getting fired for it) and is not a wholly unlikeable character because he’s flawed but generally a decent bloke. The UK Office (or The Office) was so successful because it displayed a lot of characters the audience could identify with meeting in real life, which the US version parodied, making it less believable.

[@jvm-tv]

Pure genius. The office is a masterpiece of comedy. He laid down the blueprint in 12 episodes.

[@dagnut]

There was a show that preceded it in England that gets no credit called " operation good guys" it was a fake reality show about coppers but it was subtle like the office, that started around 97/98

[@NoHeartAnthony]

…Stephen merchant

[@Roseland8]

@@NoHeartAnthony merchant was the real talent. Gervais stole and recycled all his material from Steve and karl

[@lukefitton7329]

@@Roseland8 In Ricky’s defence he has written, directed and acted in Afterlife and that’s become the most popular British Comedy ever. Still, it’s true that Stephen Merchant does not get the credit he deserves for their older works.

[@alans9806]

@@Roseland8 You have some evidence for that?

[@arconeagain]

This is the smoothest interview I've ever seen, and effortlessly funny. You have to appreciate this is still relatively new for Ricky, on the biggest nighttime show in the US, if not the world. He's calm, delivers real life humour and interestingly shares his experiences. He does stand up whilst sitting down (and makes a pun of it), works with Dave, works the crowd, incorporates current affairs and does a bit, talks about working culture. The bloke's a genius, he knows what he wants, has confidence in his views, and knows exactly where he's going.

[@arconeagain]

@@kf6260 yeah they do all that, and you still get a lot of poor interviews.

[@Bandojy]

Its true...is so funny...hahaha...nato is dead..

[@ahill4642]

Well said. I find he tends to grab you and not let go, no matter what he’s doing. Uniquely funny and funny af.

[@ViolentGenius]

Most comics try too hard to be funny. For example, Joe Rogans crutch is yelling which he only does during stand up. I find him to be a lot funnier in his podcasts where he's just being himself, of course he still yells, but the timing is more natural. Ricky is himself always, and doesn't care for the laugh because he knows what he's saying is genuinely funny, you can't deny everyday humor is the pinnacle of comedy, because life itself can be a cruel joke sometimes, and that is the base for Rickys humor. All the great comics use the same technique. That's why I also love Dave Chapelle, well the younger version anyway.

[@arconeagain]

@@ViolentGenius Dave Allen is another good example. Commentary really.

[@impero101]

I remember that my English teacher in (my country's equivalent of) high school was such a big fan of British comedy, that he made us watch The Office in class once per week. Not everyone in class got the humor, but I loved it. We also read The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy. He was one of the school's favorite teachers. He would always carry a mug of coffee and once in a while I asked him whether he would bring me one - mostly as a joke - but when he returned from the teachers lounge, he would have a cup for me as well. I also brought him coffee sometimes. When I entered the teachers lounge the other teachers would say "You cannot be here" and I'd respond with "I'm just bringing Michael a cup of coffee" and they'd immediately understand. XD He was fun and down-to-earth and he did a great job of teaching English (I'm a non-native speaker).

[@pinballrobbie]

He obviously had a great effect on you as the best teachers do.

[@impero101]

@@pinballrobbie Indeed. At university all my lectures, reports and exams were conducted in English, even though English is not the native language here, so having an enthusiastic teacher like him, did well to prepare me for my further education.

[@roughcutguitars]

Lucky, lucky you! I had only one cool teacher moment like that when he took us on a 'field trip' to see Clockwork Orange at a revival theater. There was a pizza place next door and we got one and 'snuck' it in - thought we were anyway :-) but The Office for weekly classes for the win :-)

[@johnnysmith863]

Well, your written English is excellent. You should have both been drinking tea, though.

[@impero101]

@@johnnysmith863 Why, thank you. While I do like tea, it's rarely my first choice of beverage.

[@transcendingdrums9592]

The way he throws one joke after the other with his poker face is genius.

[@rocharoch]

Ricky’s reaction when lettermen says it’s gonna be hard to find someone as good as him for that role Is heartwarming

[@davidtoohey783]

It is heartwarming - and ironic, because obviously Steve Carell is an amazing actor, and he surpassed expectations to make it an iconic role for him, too. Steve modified his Series 1 persona to become more competent in Series 2 onwards thus outgrowing the David Brent caricature, and that propelled the character forwards on Steve's terms.

[@TonyEnglandUK]

There's a Ricky/Letterman interview where Letterman says about The UK Office _"I've said this before but it always comes out rather clumsily. Possibly the best television show ever"_ If anyone can point me to that interview, I'd be very grateful.

[@SuperEdge67]

Well they didn’t find anyone as good as him for the role.

[@claudiasmith1600]

@@SuperEdge67 You're kidding, right?

[@zsuzsannaszoke6541]

If I have a bad day, I just watch a video of Ricky. He is brilliant, my favourite.

[@chrisbigg392]

The bits of paper reference made me laugh. When I was doing my apprenticeship I was told to take some paper and a pen with me if i wanted to go and have a chat with someone in another building. It works. Nobody ever stops you.

[@visiblekoment]

Yep, I carry the laptop everywhere now.

[@purpurina5663]

The George Constanza technique! Carrying papers, looking preoccupied 👌🏾

[@kevinmorrison5293]

I still watch the British office regularly and it never ever gets old. Just complete genius like everything Ricky does. What a man he is , the office, extras, Derek, life's to short , After Life. Unbelievably funny and what a standard of work.

[@greg8598]

The original Office will go down with Fawlty Towers and Pete n Dud as a British classic.

[@-NemoMeImpuneLacessit]

I think after life is one of those underrated shows that people will reference later as genius.

[@TonyEnglandUK]

@@-NemoMeImpuneLacessit I totally agree with you there, mate, I think it is Ricky's best work.

[@Mr___X]

gervais and merchant work perfectly together, but the magic isn't there when they work separately

[@TheLman77]

Life’s too short was massively underrated

[@steve00000011]

Ricky Gervais is undoubtedly one of the funniest people around 😂

[@EasyTiger.01343]

Obviously, we’re thankful you pointed that out for us. Time well spent.

[@dr2stroke611]

hes clearly a very smart guy too as he understood that the Americans would have to have their own version of the Office and hes probably greatly increased his earnings that way. Its not even like the Americans dont 'get' the British jokes as all the same jokes are in the American version, they just dont like to watch non-American tv

[@ultraali453]

"The Office" US became such a huge global success that it brought people to the original. What an achievement! One of the best sitcoms in the history of comedy on TV.

[@TalonsOfFire]

He grew up in a normal, down-to-earth environment and worked in an office for 10 years. Famous people who had to pay their dues and grow up normally are often among the most level-headed and humble of them, mostly.

[@Mike50000]

I remember hearing him say once that he's glad his music career didn't work out as he wouldn't have been able to handle fame when he was young, but by the time The Office came out he was old enough to manage.

[@treesplease4053]

I think Ricky is wonderful in this interview, really enjoyed it.

[@hans-joachimbierwirth4727]

You just don't wanna be the other twin. Admit it!

[@DangYourEyes]

@@hans-joachimbierwirth4727 🤣 fantastic - you zeroed in on the absolute funniest moment (of a quite funny interview) and found the perfect reference point. Bravo!

[@youchwb6005]

@@hans-joachimbierwirth4727 I heard there were three of them.

[@TonyEnglandUK]

Ricky saying about tigers...he must have forgotten _"Ricky Gervais Wants To Be David Attenborough"_

[@flangmasterj]

I remember flicking between channels here in New Zealand when the BBC The Office was on and watched for 20 seconds then changed the channel. I think I was just confused and maybe underwhelmed but now I must've seen the two seasons and Xmas specials a dozen times. It's some of the funniest yet cringeworthy TV ever created and pure genius.

[@anzugiri683]

After life by him on Netflix is so good. loved it!

[@razmatazz9310]

Same here. I just didn't get the humor when I watched it the first time. Probably too young, too.

[@Grandmastergav86]

The UK Office is perfection, the American version is a travesty.

[@redsquirrel1086]

Cringeworthy is a brilliant description and that's what makes it unique. The American version is simply a comedy set in an office. It misses the point entirely.

[@daveinpublic]

@@redsquirrel1086 no, the us office is just different. It reflects a different type of work environment. Very relatable to people who live here.

[@mookiejapan7351]

Interesting. You can tell he's a bit nervous because he's not laughing out loud like he often does.

[@brokenbadge4273]

i imagine him to be a bit nervous and alert when he first got into showbiz, but then he saw through the glamour of it and go "what the heck"

[@browngaymethodistjesuschri1361]

It must be hard going from a normal place to American TV with all the hyperbolic cheers

[@redlady935]

Not as arrogant back then

[@soilentgreen7]

@@redlady935 like yourself

[@browngaymethodistjesuschri1361]

@@redlady935 He’s not arrogant, people are just dumb?

[@niallshaw]

Proof that when you make the host of the talk show, in this case David Letterman, have a deep, genuine belly laugh, then the comic/audience knows that person is really funny. Gervais is absolutely a unique comic voice. Carson was the same, if you made Carson let out a side splitting laugh like Carson and Robin Williams, you knew that they were funny and everyone else recognized it too.

[@Dazlidorne]

If Carson invited you over to the couch after you did a routine, you had made it. He was a kingmaker.

[@Drew_D]

Ricky is just genuinely funny.

[@PiglipsMaximus]

Modern day Ricky isn’t though. He’s a broken record

[@rotten-waffles]

@Art Antipop pretty sure he was making a joke

[@angelareele858]

Tigers.... not good pets.

[@warrenbennett1863]

At least his laugh is genuine. 😜🤮🐂💩

[@simonjones7727]

I agree. Not just funny, but he tapped into a whole new sort of funny based on pathos, embarrassment and limited insight. He made excruciating-funny a "thing" but there is a lot of heart in what he does too. it's fundamentally optimistic about human nature. Very hard to know what posterity will value but I would not write off the possibility that Ricky Gervais will survive the eventual "sift down"

[@filipetr]

It looks like a historical moment, after watching both series several times

[@tybrady4598]

It sure worked out well for Ricky, he’s 190 million richer after the American version of Office!

[@samnelson2343]

Truly?

[@TonyEnglandUK]

@@samnelson2343 He's right, I just looked it all up.

[@user-fx3oz5yy9z]

I love this man! He is exceptionally humorous in a unique way.

[@AtamMardes]

"Religion began when the first scoundrel met the first fool." Voltaire

[@Skoshtwo]

It's so magical seeing Ricky Gervais being interviewed without the general public being aware just how funny he actually is.

[@clash5j]

I actually remember the incident of the New Yorker who had a tiger in his apt.🤣It was discovered when the neighbor below began complaining about the massive amounts of pee that was coming down into her apt. The police had a feeling about what they were dealing with and used one of those tiny wired cams to look in the apt window...and there was the tiger, just chillin'. lol

[@daveinpublic]

I would be very surprised if there was pee dripping down my walls and I didn’t know there was a tiger involved.

[@pwood6532]

Lol.america is soooo crazy!imagine letting people keep tigers as pets!bonkers!

[@WheelSports]

Proof that a normal, nice guy can make it

[@philsurtees]

He's not normal, or nice, but I know what you mean...

[@IntegrityWin]

Yeah Dave did well.

[@justaman1721]

Rick is nice but certainly not normal. He's a genius. I hope he continues to create for years to come

[@KRAFTWERK2K6]

Also how normal, nice guy doesn't let it get to his head and doesn't forget where he comes from. Because he's still himself.

[@bigredfella13]

Derek and After life are 2 of Mt favourite TV shows ever, they have you laughing one minute, cringing the next, then crying your eyes out

[@TonyEnglandUK]

I personally think After Life is Ricky's finest work, I absolutely love that series.

[@dtschuor459]

@@TonyEnglandUK I don’t know all of Ricky’s work, but I must say, “After life” is an incredible piece of work…writing, sets, characters, and the redemptive element of the storyline. It’s truly wonderful

[@darinsingleton3553]

I like that Gervais kid. I hope things turn out for him.

[@TonyEnglandUK]

He's got potential to earn a living in showbiz. Keep him out of Greggs, though.

[@CartersRetroReviews]

"...it was a pleasure and I hope you come back." And that was the last time anybody ever heard from Ricky Gervais ever again.

[@JMG_86]

Was the American version of The Office picked by some local PBS stations or something like that?

[@twoblacklabs904]

@@JMG_86 nah, always an NBC Television Production…

[@evanbrende]

@@twoblacklabs904 No, I definitely saw an episode of it on PBS one time. Weird show, following around those office workers for that many years

[@FenceThis]

maybe around your parts

[@evanbrende]

@@FenceThis 😂 it's a joke the show is a show in a show

[@Mazxlol]

Ricky is just too funny. A natural talent 😂

[@normanclark933]

It is amazing how one can come (very) late to someone like Ricky Gervais. I am now in my '80's and originate from the Slough he features in his show. It was a place I loathed then, and have no reason to change my opinion. The place was a shithole, but my memories are not so antipathetic towards the people. The place was seemingly designed to despoil some of the most attractive scenery in the UK, so much s that the Poet Laureate (how about that for an antiquated title?) could write about 'Oh friendly bombs fall on Slough' and get away with it, as most thought the same. Eighty years ago, Ricky wouldn't have stood a chance of stating the obvious. More power to his writing elbow!

[@GreenMorningDragonProductions]

Mars Bars come from Slough and for that reason alone it has my undying affection :)

[@user-kk4zw5jo4t]

Wonderful comment.

[@thedukeofnuts]

@@GreenMorningDragonProductions Do they make Snickers there also, or would it be a different location?

[@thedukeofnuts]

"Come friendly bombs fall on Slough It isn't fit for humans now There isn't grass to graze a cow Swarm over death"

[@paulmorphy6187]

Could listen to Ricky for hours for some reason...nobody else has that effect that I can think of

[@teodelfuego]

Alan Partridge has the same effect on me

[@henryposadas3309]

Personally I prefer the British version. Im not british but the humour in it seems to be coming from a more honest observation of human character. I believe them as real people. It makes me laugh yet at the same time reflect on the human condition.

[@richardharris9708]

American version was funny and feel good, which I like, but the British version is better as an artform. If you like that sort of thing you might enjoy Peep Show as well.

[@abeining]

Agree that the UK version is better. It is more subtle. Which I like.

[@Pandemonis]

Yeah, it's feel-good and funny vs sarcastically existiensialist (from a french point of a view).

[@groseron]

American here, and I agree. Also, as someone who has worked in various office settings, I actually felt the original Office was more relatable, and in effect, much funnier. I like both of course, but to me, the American version felt more like I'm watching a tv sitcom with actors. The British one on the other hand...I felt like I was peering into a random work day in one of the many offices I've worked in, seeing people and scenarios that, although sometimes unlikely, at the same time likely! So I much prefer the original one

[@marksienicki1253]

Full of yourselves much?

[@BRinMilwaukee]

I love moments and segments like this, and that I get to see it all so easily, and of such good quality. What a treat. Big fan of both

[@DJCoachCookie68]

That was a really nice interview. Ricky looks so young lol Lettermen's style seems to me to be so laid back but professional too. He seems to genuinely admire the Office. Interesting to see their meeting for the 1st time. As a Brit, I love Ricky. I was first aware of him on the 11o'clock show which was aired before the Office

[@kasperjoonatan6014]

of course Letterman admired the O. i was very surprised that the US Office was so good! also, it gave us the husband of Emily Blunt :)

[@lovelywaz]

That "journalist" who asked him about what would he save in a housefire was Ellen 😂😂 And he roasted her hard on her own show 😆😆

[@shaungardner311]

Her ex girlfriend just got roasted. Literally.

[@silencemeviolateme6076]

I can't find that clip. I think you miss remember.

[@lovelywaz]

@@silencemeviolateme6076 Watch 5 second rule with Ricky Gervais, he did it twice!

[@silencemeviolateme6076]

@@lovelywaz wasn't in either of those.

[@cheshirepat30]

It’s odd to see him so quiet and humble.

[@jamesrowden303]

Yeah, he's probably fairly lowkey unless he turns on the character he needs to be when interviewed. Otherwise he'd be like Ben Affleck, boring as a concrete apron.

[@peterddb1593]

Ricky’s first appearance on the show!! Brilliant!

[@bunkerbyname5585]

Is this the most together bloke you've ever heard? He's on a different level. The James bond without the gun skills. He still said spiritual & who is.?

[@austenpowers]

How young and reserved he is. Salute Ricky you make me proud to be British 😊

[@MaTtRoSiTy]

Aw this makes me nostalgic remembering these years watching Letterman late at night when tv was infomercials all night a few hours after this finished

[@HendrikWernars]

his timing on "lunch": Impeccable

[@danj.p5657]

A king of delivery

[@anthonywhitmarsh3032]

I worked in an office in the UK Civil Service for 15 years, and I know exactly what he means. Very funny man!

[@ianmangham4570]

Me too ,social security 😅

[@BlueLeopard200]

Wow I'm from UK and know a lot about Gervais but only now I learn that he was literally an office manager like David Brent!

[@Fredrikstbye]

Iconic interview!

[@Smoot11]

I think this is the only time I haven’t seen him shrieking with laughter.

[@chrisford263]

Ricky Gervais is one of the best exports Britain has ever had.. legend in the making!!!

[@UKnowtheThing]

It's funny to see him hear he's so much nicer in his earlier days.

[@Seanpenn282]

Came from nowhere and had a normal job 😂. I have seen him on loads of things years before the office. Always funny and destined for great things. Nothing betters Afterlife.

[@studas2011]

And he was on XFM.

[@cc8530]

Afterlife is a great show

[@j1spen736]

What did you see him in before the office?

[@Seanpenn282]

@@j1spen736 lots of UK comedy shows. Never the star but always funny.

[@studas2011]

@@j1spen736 11 o'clock show on channel 4. He was also on the radio.

[@ownpetard8379]

David is a superb communicator. Shows here. He speaks so clearly and distinctly - is exceptional.

[@zoidburg2975]

*succinctly...

[@ownpetard8379]

@@zoidburg2975 No. What I said.

[@tanisscott685]

He's the best! If you haven't watched his Netflix interviews series yet, I really recommned it. Even the inteviews of people you don't give a hoot about are compelling.

[@earlgrey2130]

Clearly? That's objectively incorrect. He might speak well, but he slurrs his speech and mumbles sometimes.

[@ownpetard8379]

@@earlgrey2130 Did I say “here”? Yes!

[@alsw7792]

Ricky Gervais always cheers me up and David Letterman is the perfect host.

[@davetherave6197]

When all is said and done, Ricky is my hero.

[@david-jackson-wills]

Brilliant!!! I love anything Gervais does, really funny.

[@SteveGouldinSpain]

"One of the twins" he's operating so far out of the mindset of the average person!

[@GerbenWijnja]

"Cats treat you like a mom or dad." He must have never had cats. Dogs have owners. Cats have staff.

[@ToolkiT73UK]

Teenagers treat their parents as staff too ;)

[@robomend]

How humble he was.

[@yiorgosh4739]

"...the term standup scares me." He's a master of standup now.

[@davidlogan8905]

Yeah because now he's so big and famous that he can demand a chair as a rider.

[@Inadequatechris]

Yeah, standing on stage and talking about atheism for an hour, bloody genius.

[@yiorgosh4739]

​@@Inadequatechris In his latest special, he only brought it up once that I remember. Besides, the topic doesn't matter. What matters is if a comic can make it funny. And he keeps getting gigs and is respected by fellow comics so the proof is in the pudding.

[@richardharris9708]

Like him or not it's pretty impressive that he wrote several hugely successful sitcoms and is also really good at standup. Not many comedians can claim that.

[@omarabibaker3637]

I wouldn't call him a "master" of standup (and I am definitely one to exaggerate)...it's solid, but nothing AMAZING.

[@designchik]

“You see, in England, we don’t keep tigers as pets.” British understatement. 😂😂😂

[@TonyEnglandUK]

The rich kept plenty of dead tigers in the days of the British Empire

[@briget3456]

Being neither Brit nor American I can recognize and appreciate the differences and similarities in both series. Each series was tailor made to suit the general local ambience, era and prevailing sense and style of humour to suit the local audience. A key difference was that The American Office carried on a lot lot longer, perhaps too long, which possibly is part of the reason it had a more soapy feel. I do like to go back and watch episodes from either series when I am in the need of reminiscing and escape.

[@TonyEnglandUK]

I do love the fact that Ricky refused to do more than two series and a special, it made the show still remain fresh even today but you can see why it was tempting for the U.S. version to keep going. In financial terms, it was reaching out to keep making an awful LOT of money.

[@DarkSkies72]

Ricky is such a brilliant writer and comedian, so talented but most of all I love his love of animals and all he does to bring awareness against their abuse. He donates a lot of money for them. I really wish he’d go after Sea World because his celebrity would do more than any other organization possibly could.

[@piconano]

Didn't know the original version existed. Watched the US version for a few minutes and that was it.

[@SoAaron_]

Its best to start the US version of season 2, the 1st season it was still trying to be like the UK version and it was pretty bad.

[@pho3nixinflight]

It’s amazing how this doesn’t seem that long ago but it’s almost been 20 years.

[@EastshoreCarp]

One of the twins.... hahaha.... I still laughed at that .... guy's so funny

[@cynthiarowley719]

A strong interview. Lightning in a bottle. I just bought DVDs of BBC The Office. 😝

[@j.r5159]

No VHS?

[@leonardshevlin7260]

It's a highpoint of Western Civilization.

[@whiteshadow59]

Is this your first time watching it?

[@Frank75288]

early doors is another good show , its not as good as the office though

[@adamalada1]

watch on disc 2, the cover of Free love with Noel Gallagher. How that never entered the UK music charts is beyond me

[@michaelapicard991]

thats not an interview... thats just a couple of mates having a laugh

[@michaelapicard991]

@Grace Jackson its a quote from the radio show lol

[@TrumbullComic]

Back when Ricky Gervais was just a chilled out entertainer.

[@evobio]

I see what you did there

[@smurphas6119]

what happened? is he not a chilled out entertainer?

[@bazglsgw1208]

"Freelove on a freelove highway love is free"

[@andrewjones575]

He now jokes about the ridiculous "penised women".

[@gbhgvhgbh]

People struggling with the reference here

[@roberth1322]

Ricky is very humble and pre-"I've realised what I'm capable of" here - Dave does a very good job too, as usual. I'm not really a fan of Ricky, but he's good in this.

[@mowvu5380]

Ricky hasn't changed in 25 years. I'm currently listening to his xfm shows with steve and karl. from 1998 -2005 they're even more hilariously racist, homophobic, gender confusingly excellent.

[@binkyboo1476]

Ahhh Ricky, so lovely and gentle, if only they knew 😂😂😂😂

[@Patricious1]

Great looking back. Ricky great as always in what was a great interview

[@TonyEnglandUK]

That's why I like Letterman interviewing Ricky, Dave wasn't afraid to take the pee out of his guest purely for his own entertainment. They both really seemed to have the same sense of humour.

[@pchinnIII]

Gotta love Letterman. If you are funny he will laugh because he has a sense of humor. Genuine. If you come on with some blown up ego he will deflate that quickly. Honesty.

[@KyleDavisMusic]

"Sort of eyes, sticking out and touching his glasses.....Steve." - K. Pilkington

[@Eradicus]

One of my favourite Karl lines

[@TonyEnglandUK]

@@Eradicus Don't have a go at Steve's eyes because that is a stigmatism that he's had from the age of five, so that's what makes them a bit *_bulbous_*

[@ejej6934]

Gervais was also hilarious when he appeared on Curb Your Enthusiasm.

[@MrBenny1010101]

"What do you think of American the office" "Well .. it's gonna make me a whoooole lotta money"

[@peterd788]

$50,000 an episode each for him and Merchant for having no involvement, it is rumoured.

[@TonyEnglandUK]

@@peterd788 Plus pies and coffee. Those lads had a helluva time.

[@kevinr.3542]

The office was great. But so was the follow up, Extras. All about struggling actors existing on the fringes of the British version of Hollywood. It has amazing guest stars and the episode with David Bowie is hilarious. David finds inspiration in Ricky's character's sad life and suddenly is compelled to improvise an impromptu song about him at a crowded nightrclub, much to Rickys embarrassment. Everyone joins in and sings along the chorus. And it's played so realistically, like Bowie was just struck with sudden inspiration and had to work out the song right there. The way he turns to the piano and starts working out the slightly condescending lyrics is one of the funniest moments I've seen.

[@crankybastid2197]

That episode was awesome!

[@CBrolley]

Patrick Stewart was a great one.

[@kevinr.3542]

@@CBrolley definitely! also Clive Owen had a particularly hilarious scene as well.

[@neil222222]

TV genius

[@crobarfreeman]

Ricky looks like Bowie with extra kgs.

[@Colls515]

That is so 2000s. There was a period where people were keeping wild animals in their homes and dying. Forgot about that

[@rosamundmartin752]

Ricky's intelligence shines through because he is so subtly clever and incisive with words

[@pb5531]

The original Office is still comic gold and always will be

[@Formerlywarmer]

What a great talent we were lucky to get with Ricky 😎

[@marksienicki1253]

He's still alive.

[@martinbrogan5098]

@@marksienicki1253 in fairness, the awesome Ricky in that interview is no longer with us...

[@Isleofskye]

@@martinbrogan5098 The only difference is that he has earned $80,000,000 thru' his talent since then...

[@martinbrogan5098]

@@Isleofskye agree - no doubt $80m would change us all and probably for the worse (but wouldn’t mind finding out :))

[@thegrudge]

@@martinbrogan5098 Still pretty funny, people are just soft now and easily offended.

[@renleblanc2993]

This is a hilarious interview

[@simon_williamson15]

The lesson others could learn from Ricky's technique is 'don't try too hard'. Say it how it is, be yourself and remember, you're on the show because of YOU, not for what the audience wants you to be!! Love him, like him, hate him - hard not to respect him!

[@machr01]

Both are legends, nice to see this video

[@patcampion716]

Love Ricky, it’s hard to compare the two Offices, British version, American version. Love them both, but the British version is pretty funny. And the best part is seeing the actors from the British Office in other movies and series.

[@probablecausetocheckhard-drive]

Both are good ; American version is more a sitcom

[@tesla-spectre]

The original Office by @rickygervais is sooooo much better than the US adaptation. Not to mention the absolutely ridiculous adaption in Germany (well Germans trying to do comedy... just "never mention the war") as Basil would have said

[@ruialves3058]

"He confuses popularity with respect" - best ever description for David Brent and Michael Scott

[@christopherostenfeld6445]

I hope you come back. Brilliant !!!

[@rusticmallorca]

Ricky has such class on all levels, such a talent, so sharp and quick, he just can't be matched

[@mst7806]

"Will there be an American version of this show?" Yes and it will go on to become one of the most popular shows in TV history, in fact 80% of streams from streaming services will just be this show. So, yes.

[@dr2stroke611]

he obviously understood how American TV works.. Although he said it would appeal to American viewers it does in fact have all the same jokes that the UK series had.

[@mst7806]

@@dr2stroke611 just not as dirty. I remember the first episode of the UK version, when Brent introduced Dawn (Pam in the US version). “This is Dawn, our receptionist, everybody here has woken up to the crack of Dawn.” No way that would fly on NBC Sunday prime in 2005. 😳

[@stevehandford5530]

American version is just so poor. Watered down nothing.

[@mst7806]

@@stevehandford5530 Bit like your grammar.

[@stevehandford5530]

@@mst7806 leave my grandma out of this

[@foadghavami2004]

He is great really and genuinely laughed at his lines.

[@daandemeyer1708]

Didn’t see this one yet. Thanks!

[@bazglsgw1208]

According 2 Ricky's mum i used to be a popstar😂. Look up Siona Dancing on here and you will see Ricky performing hes very Bowie influenced.

[@whataloadofbollox]

it's funny rewatching this and listening to Ricky saying he came from nowhere (tv wise) when over the years, dozens of clips of him are available on here of when he was on tv before The Office !

[@harrynac6017]

He had his own talk show for a short while. One of his guests was Jimmy Savile. I think he doesn't like to be reminded of that. It's hard to find a copy on the internet. As soon as it pops up somewhere, it gets a copyright strike.

[@jamesmason8436]

He had a small part on a comedy satire show and a chat show that was shortlived and only on some obscure channel. He wasn't famous or well known.

[@whataloadofbollox]

@@jamesmason8436 yup, you're right, he came from nowhere !

[@kiryuchan860]

He was consciously trying to create a brand and it was total lies.

[@pandabearmadness6263]

Great interview

[@chaeobods]

I love the UK version, didn't watch the US one for ages - but man, it's fantastic. First season pretty much follows ours then takes it to a whole new level.

[@gavinkaufmanworld]

The Office is a masterpiece!! 😄

[@whiteshadow59]

The English one is

[@henryposadas3309]

Yes the original UK version was

[@gavinkaufmanworld]

@@whiteshadow59 Agreed 😁

[@gavinkaufmanworld]

@@henryposadas3309 Totally agree 😁

[@DanWAd]

Lol the part at 6:50 when Letterman talks about casting and the audience claps really shows a difference in humour. Ricky thinks its ridiculous.

[@graememorrison333]

Exactly! He was being self-deprecating and ironic, but the audience took him literally.

[@JakobusVdL]

I'm in NZ, there are any number of streaming services that show the US office, not one with the UK version.

[@umthym]

wow this is a special interview.. never thought id see this:)