Basis Quote by Greg Daniels
“On a daily basis, you're working with Steve Carell; you're not working with Ricky Gervais. You try a line, and you can't be writing for David Brent. You have to be writing for Michael Scott because Steve is Michael Scott.”
About This Quote
Source TV: The Office (US) script notes, 2005
The writer emphasizes that each character has a unique voice; copying another’s style fails to capture authenticity.
In simple terms: Copying another’s style loses authenticity.
Key Takeaway
Write true to each character’s voice.
Themes
authenticity
creativity
character
writing
collaboration
Mood
analytical
playful
professional
Type
creative
instructional
When to use this quote
- scriptwriting
- improv
- team meetings
Key Concepts
voice differentiation
comedic timing
character consistency
Questions to Reflect On
- What unique traits define your character’s voice?
- How can you honor a colleague’s style while staying original?
A Different Perspective
Mimicry can stifle originality and audience connection.
![“Well, on a personal level, I would never want to take on a character who didn’t have some redeemable qualities. Even the worst of people, such as Michael Scott in The Office [Carell’s character in the US version of the Ricky Gervais sitcom], have some decent human qualities that you can latch onto.” quote by Steve Carell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/920/steve-carell-2000_character_well-on-a-personal-level-i-would-never-w_2719286.jpg)
![“A few years ago, when I was writing songs for my first album, I was staying with Michael Feinstein as I often did. I was working on a pilot. My grandma was very sick at the time. She died of complications from alcoholism. She always used to say [in his grandma's voice], "Red wine is good for my…” quote by Cheyenne Jackson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/af4/cheyenne-jackson-16863_albums_a-few-years-ago-when-i-was-writing-songs_893330.jpg)
