When Peacock announced a new comedy from Greg Daniels set in a struggling newspaper, comparisons to The Office were inevitable. But after two seasons, The Paper has not only escaped that shadow—it's become the platform's most acclaimed sitcom, proving it can stand on its own with wit, heart, and a distinct point of view.
The series follows a documentary crew that has traded Scranton for Toledo, Ohio, where they chronicle the daily grind at the Toledo Truth Teller. The paper is barely hanging on, reduced to clickbait and wire copy, while sharing office space with a thriving toilet paper company. Enter Ned Sampson (Domhnall Gleeson), a former salesman turned editor-in-chief, who dreams of restoring journalistic glory. His staff includes a few true believers, some relics, and a managing editor who'd rather keep the clickbait machine humming.
Season 1 had its rough patches, much like early Office episodes, but it earned a solid 85% on Rotten Tomatoes. Season 2, however, has truly hit its stride, boasting an 80% Rotten Tomatoes score and a 73 on Metacritic. Critics and audiences alike have noticed the show's sharper writing and more confident character work.
Finding Its Own Voice
What sets The Paper apart is its willingness to tackle real issues—declining readership, corporate meddling, and the struggle to produce meaningful journalism in a digital age. While The Office was about mundane office life, this show is about people fighting for something they believe in, even when the odds are stacked against them. It's a workplace comedy with a conscience, and it resonates.
The cast shines, particularly Sabrina Impacciatore as Esmeralda Grand, the theatrical and unhinged managing editor. She's the engine of chaos, delivering some of the show's most memorable moments. Season 2 leans into farce, with Ned faking a rat bite, a condiment-based crime investigation, and Esmeralda's increasingly bizarre schemes. It's a bold, weird, and welcome evolution.
For fans of the best sitcoms of the past decade, The Paper is a worthy addition. It's also a reminder that rewatchable sitcoms often take a season to find their footing. With 20 episodes under its belt, The Paper has become a must-watch for anyone who loves smart, character-driven comedy.
As Peacock continues to build its library, The Paper stands out as a flagship original. It's a show that respects its audience and its subject matter, delivering laughs without sacrificing substance. If you haven't caught up yet, now's the perfect time to dive in—before the hype gets even louder.
