The Excitement of The Paper: Reflecting on Episode 10 and the Anticipation for Season 2
After an eventful Episode 10 of The Paper, the excitement for Season 2 is palpable among fans of this comedy gem. If you missed it, this show is set in the same universe as The Office, and it has quickly carved its niche in modern television.
When and How to Watch The Paper
The Paper airs on NBC on Mondays at 8:30/9:30c, and for those who prefer streaming, you can catch up on the entire series on Peacock. It’s a perfect way to relive the laughs or catch up if you’ve missed a few episodes.
Peacock released the first season on September 4, and the final three episodes are set to air on January 3, leaving viewers curious about the fates of Ned Sampson, played by Domhnall Gleeson, and Mare Pritti, portrayed by Chelsea Frei. Their on-screen chemistry has captured the audience’s attention, especially after that captivating finale kiss.
Episode 10 Synopsis: A Night of Tensions and Triumphs
Entitled “Ohio Journalism Awards,” Episode 10 unfolds entirely at an awards ceremony where the Toledo Truth Teller is nominated for three awards. The stakes are high as the team, including Oscar Martinez (Oscar Nuñez), Mare, and Ned, grapple with nerves and the weight of potential recognition.
The awards they were competing for included “New Game of the Year,” “Outstanding Investigative Journalism,” and “Outstanding Print Coverage.” In a twist of fate, the Truth Teller not only secured all three recognitions but did so against a backdrop of personal dramas among the staff.
Relationships Unravel and Blossom
One of the standout moments from the episode was the turbulent dynamics between Adam (Alex Edelman) and his wife, Summer (Molly Ephraim), who anxiously awaited the appearance of their babysitters. Meanwhile, Esmeralda (Sabrina Impacciatore) worried about job security as Ken (Tim Key) tried desperately to distance himself from her antics.
And then there was the crowd-pleasing kiss between Ned and Mare. Throughout the finale, viewers were treated to their playful banter as they navigated through various escapades, all while Ned was preparing for his acceptance speech. Their adventure included a hilarious stint at a wedding dance floor, showcasing their undeniable chemistry.
The Unraveling of Detrick and Nicole
As romantic relationships took center stage, the tumultuous end of Detrick (Melvin Gregg) and Nicole’s (Ramona Young) relationship added emotional depth to the episode. After misunderstandings and accusations about monogamy, Detrick ultimately chose to end things. This breakup cast a shadow over the evening, impacting Nicole deeply as she sought solace in Mare’s company.
The Comedic Duo: Esmeralda and Ken
Esmeralda and Ken were a source of both humor and drama throughout the award ceremony. Their misguided attempts to win the CEO’s attention resulted in a mix of hilarious distractions—for instance, Ken’s over-the-top rescue attempts involving choking hazards that flopped, and Esmeralda stealing the spotlight during the In Memoriam segment with her improvised performance.
Celebrating Oscar’s Success
In a moment of heartfelt sincerity, Oscar delivered a touching acceptance speech, making sure to acknowledge the documentary crew that has been following him for years. His shoutout to them provided a sense of nostalgia for The Office fans, bridging the connection between the two shows.
Behind the Scenes: A Tribute to The Office
The episode’s finale was penned by Paul Lieberstein, known for his role as Toby in The Office. His influence was evident through clever nods to the original series, culminating in a motivational quote from the beloved Michael Scott.
Looking Ahead to Season 2
The excitement doesn’t end here; Season 2 of The Paper has already been greenlit, generating buzz for what’s next for Ned, Mare, and the rest of the quirky team. Until we can dive into the next season, viewers are encouraged to catch every episode on Peacock, reliving the laughter and drama of Season 1.
As we await more details about The Paper’s return, we can only speculate on the direction these beloved characters will take. The blend of humor, heart, and tension has created a series that resonates strongly with its audience, leaving viewers eager for what’s in store.


