The Office showrunner Greg Daniels explains why Michael Scott underwent such a drastic change after the first season. The show debuted on NBC in March 2005, and endured mixed reviews after its debut season before going on to achieve critical acclaim over the course of its run. Based on the British mockumentary series created by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant, the show was developed for a U.S. audience by Daniels. The Office had a stellar ensemble cast during its time, with Steve Carell’s Michael undergoing big changes over the course of the series.