Big Changes in Store for NBC's THE OFFICE?

As first reported on Deadline.com, THE OFFICE executive producer Greg Daniels May Launch a new version of the NBC comedy series which would include existing characters and incorporate new ones  if it is renewed for a ninth season. According to the report, Daniels plans to meet with the network to discuss the idea.

Since the departure of lead actor Steve Carell last season, the sitcom has been in a transitional phase. James Spader, who became a series regular, announced in February that he will not return to the show after the end of the current season.

Stars John Krasinski, Jenna Fischer, Ed Helms and B.J. Novak are currently in negotiations for new contracts. Among the factors to be determined for Krasinski and Helms return: the number of episodes to sign up for, since both actors now have busy film careers. In addition, OFFICE star Mindy Kaling currently has a pilot in the works with Fox in which Helms has a role. It was recently reported that Rainn Wilson is likely to get an Office spin-off featuring his character's home life on the family farm. The series is tentatively scheduled to begin in early 2013.

Photo credit: Tyler Golden/NBC