BJ Novak discusses The Office The Devil Wears Prada sequel and pranking Hillary Duff
B.J. Novak Delights Canton Audience with Tales from ‘The Office’ and a Sneak Peek into ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’
B.J. Novak Captivates at Canton Palace Theatre
B.J. Novak, famed actor and writer, charmed the audience at Canton Palace Theatre during a Stark Library event on September 30. Known for his role as Ryan Howard on the iconic TV series “The Office,” Novak shared anecdotes from his career, including insights into the anticipated “The Devil Wears Prada 2,” set to release in spring 2026. His appearance was part of the Stark Library’s Dr. Audrey Lavin Speaking of Books Author Series.
Audience Engages with Humor and Insights
Novak’s natural humor shone through as he read from his children’s book, eliciting laughter and applause. At 46, his ability to entertain remains evident whether on-screen or live before an audience. The session included a Q&A led by Nikolina, a DJ from the Alliance-based Q92 radio station, enhancing engagement with the crowd.
- Avid fans of “The Office” and his books, such as “The Book with No Pictures” and “One More Thing,” were in attendance.
- The event attracted a wide demographic, from young children to older adults.
Insights into the Evolution of ‘The Office’
During the event, Novak delved into potential changes in “The Office” if set in 2025, speculating that the only significant change would be the absence of neckties in office attire. He recalled the fun of filming, particularly the humorous Christmas party episode featuring Kevin Malone and Michael Scott.
Behind the Scenes of ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’
The audience was eager for details on “The Devil Wears Prada 2.” Novak praised the sequel’s script for its intelligence and heartfelt nature. The film features a stellar cast, including Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, and Stanley Tucci, who are acclaimed for their dedication to bringing the script to life.
Personal Reflections and Family Influences
Novak reflected on the influence of his father, William Novak, an accomplished writer known for celebrity memoirs. Initially viewing the writing world as unexciting, Novak came to appreciate its glamour, describing writing as a lifelong passion.
Memories of Pranking on ‘Punk’d’
Novak reminisced about his early career on MTV’s “Punk’d,” sharing a comical story about pranking Hillary Duff as a faux driving instructor. He expressed a change in perspective now, acknowledging the humanity of celebrities he once pranked.
Audience Reactions and Inspirations
Among the attendees was Jessica Russell, who expressed delight at meeting Novak, citing the impact of “The Office” during challenging times. Kyra Stephens from Plain Township brought her son to meet the author of his favorite book, underscoring Novak’s impact across generations.
Family and Local Fandom
Local families, including Aaron McMichael and his son, Oscar, a budding writer, appreciated Novak’s reflections on creativity. Patricia McMichael related to “The Office,” having worked in similar environments, while others admired Novak’s multifaceted artistic talents.
B.J. Novak’s visit not only entertained but also inspired attendees, illustrating his lasting influence both on and off the screen.
