Ricky Gervais recently celebrated the 25th anniversary of The Office, with a special YouTube video. However, one detail from the celebration grabbed the attention of the fans. They noticed that Gervais did not mention his longtime creative partner, Stephen Merchant in the video. The moment sparked fresh debate about the rumored rift between the creative partners.
Comedy fans react with fury as actor excludes his longtime writing partner from landmark tribute
Ricky Gervais celebrated The Office’s anniversary by appearing in a YouTube video that ranked the greatest moments of David Brent. Fans noticed that Ricky never mentioned Stephen Merchant, who co-created the comedy hit with him. Viewers started to criticize him for the omission across YouTube and Reddit. Many viewers said Merchant deserved much more recognition for his role in the show’s success.
Several fans accused Ricky Gervais of ignoring Stephen Merchant’s role in creating the comedy series. Commenters argued that Merchant helped shape many of the series’ most memorable moments. Merchant celebrated the anniversary in a another way, he shared the unaired pre-pilot presentation that helped the series bag the BBC commission. The clip feature both Merchant and Gervais.
The iconic pair also created Extras, Life’s Too Short, and An Idiot Abroad. Since 2013, they have not collaborated and also denied reports of personal feud. Merchant once said that they have parted ways creatively without any arguments. In 2018, Ricky Gervais told NME that he avoids mentioning Merchant because he enjoys teasing his fans.
The latest anniversary has once again revived interest in Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant’s creative partnership. Neither Gervais nor Merchant has suggested they plan to work together again. Still, fans continue to celebrate the comedy they created together.
Tell Us – Do you think Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant should reunite for another project and put years of speculation behind them?
