Diehard fans of ‘The Office’ can breathe a sigh of relief. A new book about the beloved sitcom throws a curveball our way, revealing that Jim Halpert almost went down a dark path. Thankfully, John Krasinski, the actor who brought Jim to life, stepped in and prevented a potential disaster.
Additionally, the news is revealed in a new book by Ben Silverman, the former ‘Office’ executive producer, and Brian Baumgartner, who also portrayed Kevin Malone. In the books, the writers originally planned for Jim to betray Pam.
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John Kransiski Claimed That Loyal Fans Of The Show Would “Never Come Back” If Jim Cheated
The writers originally planned for Jim to cheat on Pam during a business trip in season eight. This involved Cathy, a temporary receptionist played by Lindsey Broad, making a move on Jim and him giving in and the two sharing a kiss. Thankfully, that scene never came to be.
John Krasinski had other plans for Jim. The book reveals that Krasinski opposed the idea of Jim cheating on Pam. He understood the importance of their relationship to the show’s core and the potential fallout from such a betrayal. According to People Krasinski reportedly argued, that the fans “would never come back” if Jim strayed.
“‘They are so dedicated. We have shown such great respect to them. But there’s a moment where if you push them too far, they’ll never come back. And I think that if you show Jim cheating, they’ll never come back,'” Krasinski claimed. His stance makes perfect sense.
Additionally, Jim and Pam’s relationship was a staple of ‘The Office.’ From the covert looks in the first few seasons to their marriage in the later episodes, people loved to watch them. The idea of Jim betraying that bond would have shattered the show’s emotional core.
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Jim And Pam’s Rough Patch On ‘The Office’
It’s important to note that Jim and Pam did face challenges in their relationship during the later seasons. The pressures of starting a family and Jim’s career aspirations caused some friction. Additionally, this season eight storyline might have been a way to explore those challenges in a dramatic way.
Thankfully, the writers ultimately steered clear of infidelity and allowed Jim and Pam to navigate their issues head-on. Moreover, these problems, though quite realistic and believable, never obscured the fact that they were a couple at heart.
In the end, they got back together and their love for each other was renewed which was satisfactory to the fans who wanted to see them together. Krasinski’s interference is a good example of how actors can influence their characters to an extent.
Additionally, his knowledge of Jim and his commitment to the show’s message probably averted a terrible plot for ‘The Office.’ So, next time you rewatch Jim and Pam’s heartwarming moments, remember Krasinski’s stand to make their enduring love story.
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