Greg Daniels may have struck gold twice within the same world, as The Paper is returning for its second season on Peacock. Toledo Truth Teller found itself on the decline until Ned Sampson picked up the paper and carried it to many wins at the Ohio Journalism Awards. Of course, the biggest question heading into season 2 is can Domhnall Gleeson and company capture the same magic? The short answer is yes. Not only does the second season land, but it may have raised the bar from season 1.
What is The Paper Season 2 about?
Fresh off the Toledo Truth Telling winning Ohio journalism awards, editor Ned Sampson wants his team to continue that momentum. However, at the end of season 1, we saw Ned and Mare share their first kiss, which is a focal point of the second season, where the two try to navigate an office romance under everyone’s nose. As the relationship ramps up and the interoffice starts to piece things together, Ned rounds up the troops to get the paper back on the right track.
The Paper Season 2 Review
THE PAPER — Episode 207 — Pictured: (l-r) Ramona Young as Nicole, Oscar Nuñez as Oscar Martinez, Domhnall Gleeson as Ned, Alex Edelman as Adam — (Photo by: John P. Fleenor/Peacock)
Sitcom comedies are so hit and miss these days, and we are still sitting in the prime real estate of remakes, reimaginings, or full-on reboots. While some have had success, like Malcolm in the Middle: Life’s Still Unfair or Scrubs, others have failed, like Suits LA or Cruel Intentions. Last year, Peacock released The Paper, which seemed like it was unsure whether it would be successful or not.
The show, initially set to release in a weekly format quickly moved to an all-at-once drop. However, after rave reviews (from me included) from critics and audiences, Peacock released the series weekly on NBC. All of it led to the renewal and release and even a quick turnaround a mere year later. The success shouldn’t catch anyone by surprise because the format that Greg Daniels used in the original and many other shows has worked time and time again.
Related: The Paper Review — Domhnall Gleeson Is Tremendous In This Worthwhile Spinoff
The writers had the tall task of trying to write the romance between Ned and Mare in a way that didn’t feel stale. You almost walked a fine line because you would rather not take audiences out of the comedy and ludicrous nature of the paper, but also develop these two characters together and as their own entities. I created the writing, but also the quirkiness of how Domhnall Gleeson and Chelsea Frei play the parts of Ned and Mare.
I understand that shows like The Bear, Shrinking, Hacks, and Only Murders in the Building have a stranglehold on the comedy category at the Emmys, but I truly wish they would’ve given The Paper some consideration. Whether it’s giving the nod to the writers or spreading some love to these actors, the work in season 2 should see the love from voters as long as they stop nominating the same six shows. Domhnall Gleeson and Chelsea Freir lead the pack, but everyone deserves some love.
THE PAPER — “TTT Anniversary ” Episode 206 — Pictured: Chelsea Frei as Mare — (Photo by: John P. Fleenor/Peacock)
Sabrina Impacciatore was brilliant in season one as Esmeralda Grand, and this season is no different. She’s this off-the-wall character that goes with the flow but also ensures she is the center of attention. She’s like Angela with personality. That said, Impacciatore takes this character to another level with her portrayal. If I did a ranking of sitcom characters within the comedy work, Esmeralda Grand is in the conversation near the top spot. As this character evolves into a hopeful third season, I would love to see some sort of off-kilter romance. I love Esmeralda.
Because of the investment in the characters, you find yourself fully immersed, making this one of the easiest binges of the year. It’s truly one of the funniest shows of the year. This show has done an impressive job of standing out on its own and not being anything like the show it comes from. Kudos to everyone involved for the incredible work.
Is The Paper Season 2 worth watching?
Greg Daniels and his team have done it again with a strong follow-up. The Paper season 2 is equally (if not better) as the first season, with strong performances from the cast and smart writing that delivers the laughs. As the show continues to grow, you get the The Office-like vibe, but the ability to stand out on its own and never try to be the original series is what makes this show worthy of watching. I am invested in the characters and the stories that accompany them. If you liked season 1, you won’t be disappointed in checking out season 2. Peacock, feed me about 3-4 more seasons, please.
The Paper Season 2 will be available to stream on Peacock on September 9.
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