Parks and Rec Nearly Lost Ron Swanson Because Offerman Was 'Too Weird'

Parks and Recreation stumbled out of the gate in 2009, its mockumentary style often compared unfavorably to The Office. The show survived and Leslie Knope’s warmth—anchored by Amy Poehler—helped it become one of the standout sitcoms of the 21st century. Still, the series’ breakout wasn’t the lead; it was a quietly unusual character, Ron Swanson, played by relative unknown Nick Offerman, who almost didn’t get the part.

Offerman had earlier auditioned for The Office, trying out for Michael Scott and even playing a song on guitar in front of casting directors. He didn’t land those roles, but the auditions put him in contact with Greg Daniels, Michael Schur and casting director Allison Jones, connections that later led to Parks and Recreation.

Offerman has said he was glad he missed the earlier opportunity, believing it left the door open for what became the role he’s best known for. Daniels and Schur pushed for Offerman to play Ron, but NBC resisted for months, insisting on auditioning many other actors before finally agreeing.

parks rec, ron swanson, nick offerman, amy poehler, leslie knope, the office, greg daniels, michael schur, allison jones, nbc