Before The Office made its debut, the landscape of TV comedies was driven by Friends and Baywatch. Studios wanted to see beautiful people cracking jokes. The British version of The Office was the antithesis of that, and the showrunner of the American version wanted to keep that spirit.

When Allison Jones was casting The Office, she looked for emerging actors. The casting call used the words “non-star” and “unknown.” As they auditioned, she told them, “If you think you’re doing too little, you’re still doing too much.” Less is more.

When Jenna Fischer, the actor who would go on to play the character Pam, approached Allison for advice, Allison said, “We’re not looking for slick and clever, in your face. Just play it real…. Jenna, dare to bore me.” 

The social media landscape right now bears a close resemblance to Friends and Baywatch; there is always someone richer, younger, and more controversial. 

But, there is always an appetite for real and relatable. Being creative, in this way, means restraining enthusiasm, desperation, and passion. Let everyone else try to outshine each other; instead, try to be honest, even if it’s not always direct.

Don’t fight to be more interesting. Dare to bore me.