Mindy Kaling now sees the American TV show “The Office” in a different light. Given the current social and political climate of our generation, she thinks that the show would be so inappropriate if it aired today. Kaling, one of the original cast members of the hit series, played the role of Kelly Kapoor and also wrote of some episodes of the show.
In an interview on Good Morning America, she shared that she, and the writers of the show that she’s still in touch with, talk about how “much” of “The Office” probably couldn’t be made now. “Tastes have changed, and honestly, what offends people has changed so much now,” Kaling said.
“I think that actually is one of the reasons the show is popular, because people feel like there’s something kind of fearless about it or taboo that it talks about on the show,” she shared.
According to her, a lot of characters including her own would be “cancelled” too. She’s totally aware that “cancel culture” has been around for quite some time now. People who are insensitive and cannot respect other cultures, religion, race, and all genders and sexuality can easily be called out and immediately ‘cancelled.’ For Kaling, if we look through the lens of today’s society, much of the cast would have been viewed as ‘problematic.’
“I think she would have quit Dunder Mifflin to become an influencer. And then probably be cancelled almost immediately. Actually, most of the characters on that show would be cancelled by now,” Kaling said when asked what her character, Kelly Kapoor would be doing in the 2022 version of the show.
“The Office,” American TV’s adaptation of the British series with the same title, premiered in 2005. It had 201 episodes with a total of 9 seasons, and aired for 8 years until it ended in 2013.
Although “The Office” was one beloved TV series, we couldn’t deny the fact that some offensive and problematic remarks made in the show aren’t welcome in today’s society (as it should have been years ago too).
Here are some of the episodes that, we’re guessing, Kaling would also refer to as “episodes that did not age well”:
Diversity Day (Season 1, Episode 2)
Michael holds a racial diversity seminar. While the intention is ‘kinda’ good, he appeared mocking some of ugly stereotypes mentioned which some of his officemates (and of course, the viewers) find insensitive and offensive.
Gay Witch Hunt (Season 3, Episode 1)
Michael accidentally revealed in the office that Oscar is gay. To prove that he supports Oscar’s sexuality, he was forced to kiss him.
Hot Girl (Season 1, Episode 6)
As the title suggests, a young attractive saleswoman, Katy Moore, comes into the Dunder Mifflin office. Aside from the sexist title, men casts displayed problematic behaviors around her.
Boys and Girls (Season 2, Episode 15)
Jan conducts a women’s seminar for female employees. Michael gets upset and frustrated that a guy like him can’t attend the said seminar. His behavior wouldn’t be perceived as ‘normal’ these days.
Sexual Harassment (Season 2, Episodes 2)
In this episode, viewers witness Todd Packer’s offensive and uncomfy remarks towards women. Toby then reminded of the sexual harassment policies in the workplace. However, Michael sees it as his “retirement from comedy,” preventing him from making dirty jokes again.
Do you share the same thoughts with Kaling? Or do you think that the show has always been ‘inappropriate’?
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