The Office remains one of the most beloved sitcoms of all time, not just for its iconic humor but also for the behind-the-scenes moments where even the cast couldn’t keep a straight face. In a recent episode of The Office Ladies podcast, Jenna Fischer (Pam) and Angela Kinsey (Angela) reminisced about the hilarious chaos that unfolded during the filming of the 2009 Secret Santa episode.
Laughter Behind the Scenes
The episode featured Michael Scott (played by Steve Carell) donning a Santa suit and inviting his coworkers to sit on his lap to share their holiday wishes. The absurdity of the situation made it almost impossible for the cast to stay in character.
Fischer pointed out that if you rewatch the episode carefully, you can spot cast members breaking character. She revealed, “People are breaking in the background. Mindy [Kaling] just walks out. She just turns and leaves.” Angela Kinsey chimed in, recalling how Ed Helms (Andy) “dives behind the hall” to stifle his laughter. Brian Baumgartner (Kevin), who joined the podcast discussion, confirmed their observations, adding that the episode was one of the most memorable to shoot.
Santa’s Lap: The Breaking Point
One standout moment was Kevin sitting on Michael’s lap, which had everyone in stitches. Fischer noted, “Brian, I remember when you sat on Steve’s lap as Santa. No one could get through it.” Kinsey added that the final take used in the episode was the best they could muster, admitting, “The crew just gave up. They were like, forget it. This is what it is.”
A Festive Classic
The Secret Santa episode showcased Michael Scott’s over-the-top transformation into a wish-fulfilling Santa, complete with his unique brand of awkward charm. It became an instant holiday classic, featuring the show’s stellar ensemble cast, including Steve Carell, John Krasinski, Rainn Wilson, Mindy Kaling, Ed Helms, and B.J. Novak.
Legacy of The Office
Running for nine seasons from 2005 to 2013, The Office continues to entertain fans with its witty humor and unforgettable characters. For long-time viewers, the behind-the-scenes anecdotes shared by the cast only add to the charm of revisiting the series’ funniest moments.
If you’re in the mood for holiday cheer with a side of office shenanigans, the Secret Santa episode is a must-watch!