This is Spoilers Anonymous In-Depth, a weekly column here at TV Squad where we discuss and give our two cents on recently released spoilers and how they may affect the storylines, shows and fans.

This in-depth version of the column goes hand-in-hand with our weekly spoilers column, in which we supply you with the dirt on some of the more popular shows on the air.

This week, we discuss spoilers about upcoming episodes of 'The Office,' more precisely: who may step in to replace Steve Carrell.

When the news first broke more than a year ago that Steve Carell would more than likely leave 'The Office' at the end of the series' seventh season, fans, TV critics and bloggers wondered if the show could go on without its breakout star. But once NBC ordered an eighth season, speculation turned to who should replace the actor.

I don't know about you, but what I love about the series is not just Carell's portrayal of Michael Scott but the entire ensemble cast. Yes, Carell exiting the show will leave a big wacky and goofy space at Dunder Mifflin, but the rest of the cast and their characters are more than capable enough to keep us entertained on a weekly basis. Plus, Carell's exit means that a new wild character can be introduced, which may lead to even crazier scenes around the office.

So what do the spoilers say?

In the April 14 episode, titled 'Training Day,' Michael trains his replacement -- none other than Will Ferrell!

Even if NBC's teaser does confirm Ferrell will play Michael's replacement, it doesn't mean that he'll be a series regular next season. Although the latest gossip hints that Ferrell may join the series full-time, he's only signed on for four episodes. Ferrell has too big a career to join a TV show permanently. Plus, I always have a hard time seeing past his previous roles to focus on the current one.



Possible ways to get rid of the new boss: Ferrell's character could quit or be relocated to another branch. It wouldn't be surprising if Dwight is partially responsible for the new manager's exit considering that Dwight will probably want the position for himself!

Ricky Gervais and Will Arnett will guest-star in the season finale.

In a not-so-scientific poll done last July, TV Squad readers voted for Ricky Gervais to join NBC's 'The Office.' This casting would make sense considering Gervais created and starred in the original British version of the show. Heck, he even guest-starred a few weeks ago on the U.S. version, so the door for his character to join the NBC series is open.

Should Gervais join the U.S. 'Office' and play his British 'Office' character, David Brent? This casting stunt could lead to very funny scenes of a British manager trying to run a U.S.-based company with all the cultural and language differences it entails. Just imagine David Brent and Dwight having to work hand in hand -- hilarious, no?

No matter how cool it would be to have Gervais join the U.S. 'Office,' my first pick is Will Arnett. He has great comedic skills and can definitely fill the empty spot left by Carell's exit. Not so sure? Visit Slashcontrol.com and watch 'Arrested Development' and the '30 Rock' episodes Arnett guest starred in (including last week's episode). Gervais even mentioned that his pick for Carell's replacement is Arnett. My opinion is moot though, since today came the news that Arnett has signed to star opposite Christina Applegate in an NBC pilot.

Which actor should step in as the new manager? Let your voice be heard in our poll below or in the comments section!




'The Office' airs on Thursdays at 9 PM ET on NBC. The series returns with new episodes on April 14.

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