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Exclusive! Adam Scott on losing out on The Office to John Krasinski and his upcoming horror Hokum
ETimes | May 6, 2026 3:39 PM CST

American actor and comedian Adam Scott is best known for his part in the sitcom Parks and Recreation , however, not many know that the actor once came close to being part of one of television’s most beloved sitcoms. Long before he found his footing with notable shows such as Severance and Big Little Lies, Scott had auditioned for the role of Jim Halpert in the American remake of The Office – a part that eventually went to John Krasinski .

Speaking to us, Adam Scott recalls, “Honestly, I think all of us thought it was a pretty terrible idea to remake The Office because I was such a fan of the British version just like everyone else was. And all of us comedy nerds in the US were like, ‘What are they doing? They’re insane. It’s a perfect show. What are you gonna do?’ But, of course, I wanted to get a part in it and so, I auditioned and obviously it didn’t work out. However, it was great because Greg Daniels, who created The Office (American version) was also a co-creator of Parks And Recreation. So years later, I was able to get that show.” Ask him if he was disappointed about losing out on The Office and he replies, “I’m sure I was, but I loved the show anyway.”

‘Horror movies are about holding tension with creepy or spooky moments’

Scott, who is known for his comic timing, is stepping into a markedly different space with his next film Hokum , which releases in India on May 15 across all PVR Inox. Talking about being a part of a horror film, he says, “While you’re making a movie like this, you are creating or trying to maintain tension with creepy or spooky moments. And for me, while we’re doing it, I’m just trying to get to a particular place. It’s all about the faith and trust I have in Damien McCarthy (director) that it’s going to be something interesting and super effective. Ultimately, I knew that it was going to work because I was such a big fan of his already. But that’s part of the fun – while you’re making it, you’re already thinking about how exciting it’ll be if it all comes together, and how enjoyable it will be to sit with an audience and watch it.” On a parting note, when asked if he has seen any Indian movies, he says, “Indian movies are a bit of a blind-spot for me, unfortunately, but I would love to visit India.”


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