The Office UK Cast Who Auditioned For Different Parts In The Show

Many well-known actors in the UK were considered for roles in the popular television show “The Office” before the final cast was chosen. Here are a few of the most notable stars who auditioned for the show but were not cast in the role they initially auditioned for:

Martin Freeman – He is best known for his role as Bilbo Baggins in “The Hobbit” and as Watson in “Sherlock,” but before those he auditioned for the role of Tim Canterbury in “The Office.” “I did my reading of Gareth, and I was on my way out the door and Stephen Merchant said, ‘Can we get Martin in to read Tim? I think that might be a good thing.’”So I sat back down and read Tim and thank God I did because I wouldn’t have got cast as Gareth over Mackenzie Crook because he was so perfect for it.” In contrast to some of his The Office co-stars, Martin looks and speaks exactly like his character in real life, which meant he was much-loved by viewers.
Catherine Tate – She is best known for her role in “The Catherine Tate Show,” but she also auditioned for the role of Dawn Tinsley.
Mackenzie Crook – He is best known for his role as Gareth Keenan in “The Office,” but he initially auditioned for the role of Tim Canterbury.
Lucy Davis – She is best known for her role as Dawn Tinsley in “The Office,” but she also auditioned for the role of receptionist Jennifer Taylor-Clarke.
Robert Webb – He is best known for his role as Jeremy in “Peep Show,” but he auditioned for the role of Tim Canterbury before Martin Freeman was cast.

Despite not being cast in “The Office,” these actors went on to have successful careers and are recognized for their talent. The final cast of the show, including Martin Freeman, Mackenzie Crook, Lucy Davis, and others, went on to create a beloved and iconic series.

Matt Walsh auditioned for the role of Dwight but lost out to Rainn Wilson.

David ‘The Doctor’ Tennant was keen to play Gervais’s boss, Neil Godwin, played by Ricky Gervais.

“Every actor going was after that part,” he said. “It was quite clear to actors what a great show it was. It was fantastic to be able to go into it, and have Martin [Freeman] as an ally and friend and also to be a bit brave and take a few risks. “They auditioned me four times. They liked me as an actor, but thought I was maybe too good looking, too posh.