Ricky Gervais is reportedly set to snub the BBC’s 25th anniversary reunion special for The Office, choosing instead to release his own rival celebration on YouTube.
The comedian’s decision to skip the broadcaster’s documentary is said to be a major blow for BBC bosses, according to insiders.
It emerged last week that Martin Freeman and Mackenzie Crook would reunite for the anniversary programme, marking their first appearance together in 15 years.
But the 65-year-old star behind David Brent has decided to go in a different direction, with sources suggesting the move reflects his increasingly distant relationship with the corporation that helped launch his career.
The BBC documentary, titled Mackenzie Crook and Martin Freeman Remember… The Office, is due to air on July 8.
Freeman and Crook, who played sales reps Tim and Gareth, will look back on filming the groundbreaking mockumentary.
During his weekly livestream last Sunday, Gervais revealed that his own documentary would be released on his YouTube channel around Thursday, July 9 — matching the show’s actual anniversary.
He also confirmed a trailer would be released beforehand featuring a crossover with Alley Cats, his animated Netflix series.
Co-creator Stephen Merchant will also be absent from the BBC’s one-off special.
A source told The Sun: “The BBC making a documentary about The Office without Ricky onboard is a huge blow, as it takes some shine off the celebration.”
The insider added: “It reflects how his loyalty to the Beeb has faded over time.”
Representatives for Gervais told the publication he “wasn’t available” to take part in the BBC programme, though they said he remains in regular contact with the broadcaster about The Office.
Gervais first found major success through BBC hits including The Office and Extras, both co-written with Merchant.
In recent years, however, he has increasingly moved toward other platforms.
His comedy Derek aired on Channel 4, while he has produced multiple stand-up specials for Netflix and created Alley Cats for the streaming giant.
Speaking to GQ in 2019, Gervais said he was still “a fan” of the BBC but wished the broadcaster would be “braver”.
“I wish it wouldn’t bow to pressure from the media or from a single complaint,” he said.
“Commissioning editors are scared of being fired.”
Gervais’ latest move comes as he prepares to launch what he has called his most controversial stand-up tour yet.
The comedian recently announced his new global show, Legend, which will run from September 2026 through to the end of 2027 after signing a new deal with Netflix.
Discussing the tour, Gervais said he believes “cancel culture is dead” and promised audiences his boldest material yet, with the show exploring free speech, online outrage and some of history’s most divisive figures.
