During an NBC Upfronts conference call this morning, TV Entertainment Chairman Jeff Gaspin conceded that he too had heard the rumor that Steve Carell would probably not be renewing his contract with The Office after next year. However sad that revelation is, Gaspin assured reporters that producers on the show are already "preparing in the event he chooses to move on." But who will lead Scranton's finest paper company into the future? Here are Movieline's casting suggestions -- feel free to contribute your own.
Ricky Gervais
Maybe the original Michael Scott will get tired of hosting award ceremonies, recording podcasts, and fulfilling favors to appear on his friend's marital advice shows and instead commit himself to a full-time U.S. network. Like Darren on Bewitched or Becky on Roseanne, the casting change would never be acknowledged on the show.
Amy Ryan
If John Krasinski's Jim Halpert becomes sole manager of Dunder Miffler Scranton, producers might want to consider bumping guest star Amy Ryan up to series regular by transferring her character Holly Flax to the Scranton HR office.
Patton Oswalt
NBC recently released Oswalt from his duties on the pilot Beach Lane after a table reading gone wrong. So really, the Peacock owes him one -- even if they just attach him to the show for a few weeks before dismissing him again under murky circumstances.
Megan Mullally
The Will & Grace alum is no stranger to Thursday nights on NBC, having recently guest starred on Parks & Recreation, where her husband Nick Offerman plays Ron Swanson. Mullally has no problem playing slightly delusional and constantly distracted and let's face it: Party Down's days are numbered. Besides, just imagine the sweeps episode where Sean Hayes guest stars as a jilted former flame.
Kristen Wiig
Tina Fey has 30 Rock, Amy Poehler has Parks & Recreation and at the very least, Wiig should get her own recycled NBC prime time comedy.