THE PAPER
Review Scores (how we rate) Watch trailer →
Workplace chaos, mini-dramas, petty rivalries, chaotic brainstorming meetings, and that universal experience of sitting through a staff discussion thinking, “This could’ve been an email.”
He Said / She Said
“It’s funny, easy to watch, and perfect when you only have 30 minutes, but let’s give it some credit. The mistaken-identity cold open had me snort-laughing, and the whole thing leans into that ‘The Office…but make it newspapers’ energy (which makes sense, given who made it). They set up the personalities fast, tossed in some ridiculous newsroom problems right away, and kept the jokes rolling. Ideal for a quick break… or when you’re sick of lunchtime cable TV reruns… but don’t expect anything groundbreaking.”
“It’s like Superstore meets The Conners… Perfect half-hour viewing.”
Critical reception (so far)
Critics are split between “Charming workplace sitcom!” and “It’s fluff, but enjoyable fluff.”
The show knows exactly what it is and plays to its strengths.
What it’s about
A documentary crew follows around the staff of a dying newspaper led by newly hired Ned, a well-meaning guy who’s passionate about news. Think: “Congratulations, you’re the captain now,” but instead of a ship it’s a dying print publication, and instead of pirates he’s inherited a newsroom full of lovable weirdos.
Overall vibe
If The Office and Superstore had a 30-minute baby, and that baby later married The Conners after bonding over budget cuts and printer jams, you’d get The Paper.
This is lunchtime TV at its finest: light, fast, funny, and doesn’t require a character map or emotional recovery period. A classic “just one more while I eat” show.
It’s situational comedy, not capital-D Drama. Binge-able fluff, not a life-changing journey. A perfect palate cleanser between heavier series.
Episode-by-episode (1–3)
After a humorous mistake over why Ned is at the office, Ned introduces himself as the new editor, much to the dismay of the interim editor Esmerelda, who isn’t going to take that lying down!
Ned tries to settle in while we meet the rest of the eccentric staff. Desperate to save the paper despite the lack of funding, he turns to “volunteers” to get news stories.
Mare pitches a consumer sting story and Ned goes with her to investigate. Meanwhile, Esmerelda is up to hijinks back at the office.
Content warnings
Nothing major. A few jokes might miss, but this is safe, light comedy. If you survived The Office, you’ll be fine.
Who will love it / who should skip it
Will love it if:
- Fans of The Office, Superstore, or The Conners
- Viewers who want something short, funny, and low-effort
- Lunch-break watchers
- Background-TV enjoyers
- Anyone who loves quirky ensemble casts
Should skip if:
- You want deep emotional stakes
- You dislike sitcom-style humor
- You’re looking for satire
- You want something dark and dramatic