The Office Australia star on why it's so 'different' to the US and UK: 'Never, ever get to see'

Okay, it’s happening! After first being announced over a year ago, Prime Video has finally revealed that the highly-anticipated Australian version of The Office is launching on October 18.

The comedy series is the thirteenth version of the global juggernaut franchise and will star comedian and actor Felicity Ward in the iconic middle-manager role originated by Ricky Gervais in the UK series and portrayed by Steve Carrell in the US version - making her the first-ever female lead.

Felicity plays Hannah Howard, managing director of packaging company Flinley Craddick, who “goes into survival mode making promises she can’t keep in order to keep her ‘work family’ together” when she finds out her branch is being shut down.

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While fans may be sceptical about the idea of an Aussie adaption, the eight-part series has already received Ricky Gervais’ tick of approval.

“I’m very excited about Australia remaking my little show from the turn of the century,” he said in a statement from Prime Video alongside the series announcement last year. “Office politics have changed a bit in 20 years, so can’t wait to see how they navigate a modern-day David Brent.”

Felicity Ward spills on what fans can expect

Speaking with Yahoo Lifestyle at the 2024 Logie Awards, Felicity says she believes the Australian version of The Office will stand out from the UK and US versions.

“I think it has the warmth of the American [series],” she details. “The British have a very specific humour and I don't even think they're the same show, and I feel like the Australian one has its own thing as well.

“It feels absolutely like you're watching The Office, but it's the first female boss. You never, ever get to see female comedy characters who are incompetent, and it is a joy to be an incompetent d**khead every day.”

The pressure of making an Australian version

Felicity adds that she doesn’t currently feel any pressure to match the success of the international versions - although this may change as the release date approaches.

“At the moment we're starting fresh, but come speak to me a week before it comes out and then I'll just be wearing brown underpants,” she laughs.

“But apart from that, what are you gonna do? We had a great time, I think it's a great show, I laughed every single day, and I got to meet Shari Sebbens. What could you want from a successful show, apart from new friendships?”

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The upcoming series features an ensemble of Australian and New Zealand comedy talent alongside Felicity Ward, including Edith Poor, Steen Raskopoulos, Shari Sebbens, Josh Thomson, Jonny Brugh, Susan Ling Young, Raj Labade, Lucy Schmidt, Zoe Terakes, Pallavi Sharda and Claude Jabbour.

Susie Youssef, Justin Rosniiak, Carlo Ritchie, Rick Donald and Chris Bunton will also feature in guest roles.

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