On: NBC

Premiered: September 22, 2011

Starring: Rainn Wilson, John Krasinski, Jenna Fischer, B.J. Novak, Ed Helms, James Spader, Leslie David Baker, Brian Baumgartner, Kate Flannery, Angela Kinsey, Oscar Nunez, Phyllis Smith, Mindy Kaling, Paul Lieberstein, Creed Bratton, Craig Robinson, Ellie Kemper, Zach Woods, Catherine Tate, David Koechner, Andy Buckley, Jack Coleman, Mark Proksch, Ameenah Kaplan & Lindsey Broad

In the first season without Steve Carell’s Michael Scott, the show loses its groove and just can’t seem to get it back.

Robert California (James Spader) returns as CEO of Dunder Mifflin and promotes Andy (Ed Helms) to regional manager, while Dwight (Rainn Wilson) is slighted to number two. Jim (John Krasinski) and Pam (Jenna Fischer) are pregnant at the same time as Angela (Angela Kinsey) and the senator (Jack Coleman).

Trying to replace Michael Scott proves to be no easy task and Robert California spectacularly fails. While Michael was cringe worthy, you still liked him. There’s nothing to enjoy with Robert. However, Nellie (Catherine Tate) taking on a larger role is a brilliant move with the show. Tate is consistently likable and hilarious.

Final say: A rough season, but it has shining moments. ★★★☆☆