Michael Scott

Michael Gary Scott (born March 15, 1964) is a fictional character on NBC's The Office portrayed by Steve Carell, and based on David Brent from the original version. Michael, the central character of the series, is the regional manager of the Scranton branch of paper distribution company Dunder Mifflin.

Michael insists everyone in the office think of him as a friend first, a boss second, and "probably an entertainer third", as did David Brent in the original version. Michael holds inflated views of himself and considers himself an office comedian, but his attempts at humor tend to fail. Often he says things that are inappropriate, offensive, or unwittingly mean in the hopes of getting a laugh. For instance, he objectifies his female employees and holds stereotypical views of African-Americans, such as his employees Stanley and Darryl. However, despite his general air of braggadocio, Michael can be very insecure and spineless when dealing with his staff. He lacks maturity and self-awareness, has few friends, and is quite lonely, made worse because his efforts to make friends with people usually backfire. Indeed, he seems to have a knack for putting people into awkward situations. His subordinates, with the exception of Dwight Schrute, think of him as inept. Before he was promoted to regional manager he was a great salesman, which sharply contrasts with his social awkwardness, or perhaps, contributes to it.

In spite of everything he does wrong, Michael often comes off as a sympathetic character due to his general lack of malice and a genuine desire to make people happy. On the other hand, Michael purposely points out peoples' character flaws and personal problems and will be rude or insensitive when it serves his agenda. For example, Michael is quick to bring up Toby's troubled marital history whenever he feels angry with Toby.