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In the old days, when a star left a still-thriving hit…

“In the old days, when a star left a still-thriving hit show, they'd celebrate by killing him or her off. But 'The Office' dispatched Michael Scott in a crueler and more final way: they made him normal. Since we're talking about Michael Scott, 'normal' might be stretching it, obviously.” quote by Rob Sheffield
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“In the old days, when a star left a still-thriving hit show, they'd celebrate by killing him or her off. But 'The Office' dispatched Michael Scott in a crueler and more final way: they made him normal. Since we're talking about Michael Scott, 'normal' might be stretching it, obviously.”

Rob Sheffield

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

TV shows often end characters dramatically; 'The Office' ended Michael Scott by making him ordinary, a subtler finality.

In simple terms: Shows kill characters; this one made him normal.

Key Takeaway

Recognize that normalcy can be a powerful narrative ending.

Themes

television character arcs normalcy storytelling humor

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

critical observational

When to use this quote

  • scriptwriting
  • media analysis
  • fan discussions

Key Concepts

narrative closure character development cultural critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why does ordinary feel like a cruel ending?
  • How does this reflect on societal expectations?
A Different Perspective

Normalcy may feel unsatisfying to some viewers.

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