Overview

• Michael Schur, a writer for The Office and former SNL staffer, said the 2008 SNL sketch 'The Japanese Office' left him 'rankled' and 'didn't feel right.'
• The sketch, introduced by Ricky Gervais, depicted a fictional Japanese version of The Office, featuring white actors speaking Japanese and engaging in stereotypical cultural activities.
• Schur expressed confusion over the sketch's premise, noting that it involved white actors portraying Japanese characters, which he felt undermined its commentary.
• Director Akiva Schaffer acknowledged concerns about the casting but explained that the sketch was led by co-writer Marika Sawyer, who is Japanese American and wanted to realize her vision.
• Schur praised a different SNL parody of The Office from 2007, hosted by Rainn Wilson, which he felt better captured the essence of the show.