Jenna Fischer discusses career shift and early ‘The Office’ experiences

Actress Jenna Fischer has shared insights into her career transitions and early experiences during the filming of the NBC sitcom ‘The Office’. Speaking on the ‘Dinner’s On Me’ podcast, Fischer recounted a humorous anecdote from the show’s second season. While celebrating the series' renewal at a Los Angeles restaurant, Fischer and castmates Angela Kinsey, Kate Flannery, and Phyllis Smith were ignored by paparazzi who were instead pursuing ‘Seinfeld’ star Jason Alexander. Kinsey’s attempt to clarify they were from ‘The Office’ led the photographer to mistakenly believe they were NBC administrative staff.

Fischer also discussed her decision to step away from leading television roles following her time on the ABC comedy ‘Splitting Up Together’. She cited the intense workload, often reaching 65 to 70 hours per week, as being incompatible with raising her two young children. To maintain a steady income while gaining more control over her schedule, Fischer transitioned into podcasting. She currently co-hosts the ‘Office Ladies’ podcast with former co-star Angela Kinsey, where they revisit memories from their time on ‘The Office’.