Dear John Letter to "The Office"

Dear "The Office",

This is hard to do.  I have loved you for so many years, so many seasons.  But, in light of recent events, I have to break up with you.

When we first met, you were the US version of that super popular UK series, "The Office".  No one here was giving you much of a chance.  Many other UK series were brought stateside and failed, so the same was expected of you.  Instead, you totally won our hearts by being funny, relevant and cringe-worthy, all in the same 30 minute time span.  Anyone who has worked in an office or for a business would likely relate to any number of characters on your show.

I've had a few Michael Scotts in my life.  I've lived through them and am now on the other side, looking in.  But, that doesn't mean that I can forget my past.  I've had a few Dwight Schrutes in my life, a few Angelas, a few Kevins, a few Ryans - and because I can't avoid them - a few Jims and Pams as well.

For 4 seasons, you made me laugh, made me cry and made me look forward to watching the next week.  But, somewhere, after the writer's strike earlier this year, you lost me.  You became a show about relationships.  In fact, last Thursday's episodes dealt with no less than 5 relationships and related issues - in 30 minutes!  I didn't fall in love with you because you were a relationship show.  I fell in love because you were a show about my (and other's) office space.

So, without further adieu, I will say goodbye.  If you ever change your mind about what you've become, I'm happy to welcome you in my life.  But, at this point in time, I never want to hear another thing about Roy/Pam/Jim, Dwight/Angela/Andy, Kelly/Darrell/Ryan, Phyllis/Bob or Michael/Real Estate Agent/Jan/HR Lady.

Sincerely,
Whitney Farmer