We're 11 days into life without Michael Scott, and I'm not sure how long the Scranton branch of Dunder Mifflin will stay in business without the bumbling boss.

Michael's farewell was an episode fit for a series finale. In his last scene, he pulled his microphone off and inaudibly mouthed "That's what she said" before turning his back to the camera and walking away. Yes, I teared up a bit as the World's Best Boss departed (and earlier in the episode, I was having trouble keeping it together as Jim told Michael he had turned out to be an amazing boss).

If you missed Michael's departure, you can click the play button below to watch it:



Michael's replacement Deangelo didn't last long, either. After some missteps and uncomfortable, awkward moments, the new regional manager left Scranton. (Thankfully, the funny Will Ferrell didn't overstay his welcome.) Click the play button below to watch last week's episode:


The description for the next episode:

All-New Thursday, May 12th 9/8c
"Dwight K. Schrute, Acting Manager" (TV-14)
Dwight takes over for Deangelo and immediately begins applying his unique management style to Dunder Mifflin Sabre. Kathy Bates guest stars.

The promo in last week's episode showed some pretty interesting speculative replacements for Michael Scott as the regional manager. And while several of them would be good in the role, I'm still not sure how long the place will last without Michael Scott. The character will have to be strong and funny, but it can't be just another manifestation of Steve Carell's character. I also imagine that it would be difficult for someone such as Jim to replace Michael as head of the office. Then it will turn into a formulaic sitcom of the straight man keeping things together while all the goofy people around him act out. One thing that I've always loved about "The Office" is how all of the characters' personality quirks balance each other out so well, but if such a normal person is the center of it all, the balance will somehow be off. Then again, I don't want to see another Michael Scott in that role.

This is why I am not a television writer. I have no idea what direction would be best for the show.

All I know is that it's going to be pretty difficult to top Michael Scott's exit. The episode was entertaining and funny, yet touching and moving. Michael Scott acted exactly as Michael Scott would.

Has "The Office" jumped the shark? We'll probably find out early next season.


-- Cheryl Sadler | CSadler@News-Herald.com | @nhcheryl