It may come as a surprise, but John Krasinski has named one of the most contentious episodes of The Office as his favorite. Best known for his portrayal of Jim Halpert, Krasinski often reminisces about his experiences at the Scranton branch of Dunder Mifflin. However, when asked about his standout moment in the series, he chose an episode that has divided audiences. Some viewers find it to be a bold and memorable comedic experiment, while others criticize it as an uncomfortable misstep that pushed the show’s awkward humor to its limits.
Despite its controversial nature, Krasinski’s preferred episode, “Diversity Day,”aired during the show’s formative first season. This era was marked by growing pains as The Office sought to distinguish itself from its British counterpart. The fact that this episode, a significant moment in the series, was later removed from syndication highlights the evolving standards of comedy and sensitivity over time.
John Krasinski Selects “Diversity Day”as His Favorite Episode of The Office
Krasinski’s Unexpected Choice Reflects His Appreciation for the Show’s Daring Early Moments
In a revealing interview with People in 2018 (as reported by Yahoo), Krasinski noted that “Diversity Day” has a special significance for him. Despite being just the second episode, it made a lasting impact on viewers and cast alike, showcasing its distinctly awkward humor and engaging commentary on workplace dynamics. For Krasinski, this episode marked a turning point, demonstrating the series’ commitment to embracing its unique tone—and he appreciated it wholeheartedly.
The strength of “Diversity Day” lies in its audacious nature and its ability to evoke discomfort—not out of mere insensitivity, but by reflecting the often awkward attempts of corporate America to address diversity issues. In this episode, after Michael Scott (played by Steve Carell) impersonates Chris Rock during a meeting, Dunder Mifflin’s HR prompts a diversity seminar. Michael, however, seizes the moment to conduct his own ill-conceived training session, resulting in one of the show’s most infamous scenes: employees wear index cards with racial or cultural identifiers and attempt to role-play each other’s backgrounds.
Krasinski remarked that this was the episode where Steve Carell fully transformed into his role as Michael Scott. While the pilot episode was heavily influenced by the UK version, “Diversity Day” established the American iteration’s distinct voice—one that was provocative, boundary-challenging, and at times, uncomfortable. This is a key factor in why John Krasinski regards “Diversity Day” as a standout, even two decades later.
The Controversy Surrounding The Office’s “Diversity Day”and Its Pull from Syndication
The Episode Faces Criticism for Racial Insensitivity and Its Subsequent Removal from Syndication
While Krasinski cherishes “Diversity Day” as pivotal in establishing the show’s humor, it has attracted significant backlash. Upon its original airing in 2005, it ignited discussions over Michael’s misguided approach to diversity training. As societal attitudes evolved, the episode faced renewed criticism, leading to its removal from syndication in certain markets by 2021 (as reported by MSN), effectively limiting its availability for reruns.
The central controversy pertains to the episode’s handling of race, stereotypes, and workplace dynamics. Although it is intended to be a satire, critiquing corporate America’s often superficial approach to diversity, it heavily relies on racial stereotypes and awkward humor. The notorious index card scene, where employees don labels such as “Asian,” “Jewish,” or “Indian” while interacting based on these identities, has prompted significant scrutiny. While the intention was to unearth the absurdity of racism and diversity policies, many viewers felt the execution crossed a line.
Fan opinions on “Diversity Day” vary widely. Some argue that it is an essential part of the series’ identity, capturing its early, daring spirit, while others see it as an outdated episode that falters on several levels. Although NBC has not formally banned “Diversity Day,” its removal from syndication emphasizes the caution networks are adopting with older content that may not meet modern standards of sensitivity. The episode is still accessible on platforms such as Peacock but may feature content warnings or be relegated to the deeper recesses of episode listings.
The Evolution of The Office and Michael Scott Beyond “Diversity Day”
A Dramatic Shift in Tone and Character Development Post-Season 1
Even though Krasinski considers “Diversity Day”his favorite episode, it stands out as a notable anomaly rather than a template for the series. As The Office progressed, it underwent significant transformations – not only in tone but also in its treatment of sensitive topics and the evolution of Michael Scott’s character. By the season’s end, it was clear that some adjustments were necessary. Season 2 saw a softer portrayal of Michael, transforming him from a harsh boss to a more endearing, misguided character, enhancing The Office‘s relatability and solidifying its place as a modern sitcom classic.
While subsequent episodes like “Sexual Harassment,” “Gay Witch Hunt,” and “Scott’s Tots” maintained a degree of edginess, they incorporated greater nuance, allowing Michael to reflect on his behavior. The narrative matured alongside the characters, giving viewers more dimensional portrayals, including Dwight’s gradual development from a simple oddball to a more complex individual.
Looking back, “Diversity Day” encapsulates The Office at its rawest and most unfiltered. It was a bold, experimental effort, embodying both the risks and the discomfort that came with it. This is precisely why Krasinski’s preference for this episode is significant: it marks a pivotal moment for both the series and the character of Michael Scott. Without it, The Office may not have dared to take the creative risks that ultimately defined its legacy. Yet, for the show to resonate with audiences deeply, it had to evolve beyond this particular chapter.