When it comes to TV shows that have stayed relevant for years after their finale, it doesn’t get much better than The Office. The ambitious documentary-style sitcom continues to find an audience with every generation, and the iconic characters have been deeply infused into pop culture ever since its 2005 inception. 

I argue that The Office covers all the bases: character development, camerawork, and writing – and it is the greatest show of all time for that reason.

Most Office fans will tell you the first season is a mere shell of what the show becomes later on, as the six episodes act mainly as an American rendition to the original British version of the show. Michael Scott, the heart and soul of the show, just isn’t himself quite yet.

However, as the seasons move on, the 22-minute episodes start to get more captivating, as the character storylines play in part with each unique plot. The Jim and Pam will-they-won’t-they situation adds a deeper dynamic and Michael and company earn their redeeming qualities.

The Office really hits its prime around the middle with widely regarded episodes such as “Dinner Party” and “Stress Relief”. The formula is set in stone by these episodes to create the most awkward and uncomfortable environment possible, which is written perfectly.

Another reason the show works so well is the combination of writers and actors. Some of The Office’s primary writers such as Paul Lieberstein and B.J. Novak have integral roles on the show, playing Toby and Ryan respectively. They are able to bridge the gap and write things they know work, because they are living it with every shoot.

One of the biggest criticisms I and many other fans have of the show is its running time. After season 7, the dark era of seasons 8 and 9 cast a shadow over an otherwise great show. Characters start acting out of their element and plotlines are dragged on too long. But the final episodes tie up those loose ends effectively, despite how much of a drag the final seasons were.

In conclusion, the continued support The Office receives to this day is more than warranted, and in my eyes, it is peak television. I rest my case.