The Paper is a mockumentary workplace comedy and the first official spin-off of the beloved NBC series The Office, created by Greg Daniels and Michael Koman. Set in the same universe but shifting from Scranton’s Dunder Mifflin to the historic Toledo Truth Teller newspaper in Ohio, the show begins as the familiar documentary crew seeks out a struggling newsroom recently acquired by a major paper goods conglomerate. Led by new editor-in-chief Ned Sampson (Domhnall Gleeson), the eccentric staff faces the challenge of reviving local journalism in the digital age—while navigating generational clashes, financial woes, and absurd workplace antics. The Paper preserves the DNA of The Office—wry humor, sharply observed office dynamics, and heartfelt cast—while exploring the chaos and camaraderie of a newspaper in flux, welcoming back Oscar Nuñez as Oscar Martinez to connect worlds for long-time fans.
The Paper Main Cast & Characters
Domhnall Gleeson as Ned Sampson
Domhnall Gleeson stars as Ned Sampson, a former star salesman brought in to revive the historic Truth Teller. Optimistic but inexperienced in journalism, Ned’s inventive leadership style ignites a chaotic transformation at the paper. Balancing professional and personal aspirations, Ned’s challenge is to inspire a team with varying motivations while contending with a staff skeptical of his outsider credentials.
Sabrina Impacciatore as Esmeralda Grand
Esmeralda Grand, played by Sabrina Impacciatore, is the glamorous, surface-focused managing editor of the paper. A single mother from Italy, Esmeralda’s authority is threatened when Ned takes over. Driven by her desire for stability and the so-called American Dream, she compensates for her insecurity with manipulative schemes and dramatic flair. Her humor lies in a self-created “alternative reality,” making her a formidable – if chaotic – presence in the newsroom.
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Chelsea Frei as Mare Pritti
Chelsea Frei portrays Mare Pritti, once a promising Army journalist now reduced to copying web stories. Mare’s quiet resignation is jolted by Ned’s arrival, fostering hopes for a rebirth in her career. Her dry wit and latent ambition make Mare a steadfast ally for Ned, while providing much-needed expertise to a team of rookies.
Ramona Young as Nicole Lee
Nicole Lee, played by Ramona Young, is an intelligent, non-confrontational member of the circulation department who volunteers as a reporter after Ned’s overhaul. Nicole’s reserved demeanor conceals a sharp intellect; her avoidance of office drama contrasts with a secretive romantic entanglement with a colleague, adding workplace tension and relatability.
Melvin Gregg as Detrick Moore
Detrick Moore, portrayed by Melvin Gregg, is an ad salesman who volunteers to report for the paper, partly due to his interest in Nicole. Their complex, undefined relationship supplies comedic, heartfelt moments throughout the series. Detrick’s humor, impulse, and struggles to balance professional and romantic ambitions make him stand out in the ensemble.
Gbemisola Ikumelo as Adelola Olofin
Gbemisola Ikumelo plays Adelola Olofin, the accountant epitomizing “burnout.” Smart but disengaged, Adelola prefers to collect her paycheck and avoid extra work. Ned’s arrival, however, gradually reawakens her sense of purpose. Adelola’s journey charts the shift from bare-minimum survival to reluctant participation, blending dry sarcasm with moments of genuine growth.
Alex Edelman as Adam Cooper
Alex Edelman plays Adam Cooper, another accountant who admits his only real journalism experience came from junior high. A father, Adam is lovable and simple-minded, described by cast and crew as a “golden retriever” with boundless enthusiasm but limited savvy. His comic innocence and loyalty offer levity and heart to the office backdrop.
Oscar Nuñez as Oscar Martinez
Oscar Nuñez reprises his iconic “The Office” role, returning as Oscar Martinez, now in the accounting department of The Toledo Truth Teller. Oscar brings veteran experience, dry humor, and subtle office politics, linking The Paper’s universe to its predecessor.
Tim Key as Ken Davies
Tim Key joins The Paper as Ken Davies, a business strategist with a penchant for observation and quirky commentary. Ken’s outsider perspective gives voice to corporate logic while clashing amusingly with the eccentric newsroom dynamics.
The Paper Recurring Cast & Characters
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Nancy Lenehan as Ann – Appearing in several episodes as a senior staffer.
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Allan Havey as Marv Putnam – Office personality with a recurring role.
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Eric Rahill as Travis – Reporter and supporting comic relief.
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Duane R. Shepard Sr. as Barry – Supporting staff presence.
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Tracy Letts as John Stack – Guest star with dramatic influence on newsroom events.
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Tawny Newsome as Harper Brewster – Guest reporter with a single-episode appearance.
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Mary Hollis Inboden as Cindy – Contributes offbeat energy in her guest spot.
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Matt Peters as Gary Gladstone – Another guest role for comic twists.
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Jay Pharoah as Martin Lawrence – Special guest appearance.
Other ensemble and supporting contributors round out a vibrant newsroom filled with ambitious misfits and endearing oddballs, under the guiding lens of the mockumentary format.
Guest Stars
The Paper features a blend of guest stars from comedy and drama, with notable appearances by Tracy Letts, Tawny Newsome, Jay Pharoah, and veteran talents like Oscar Nuñez bridging universes.
