Kristen Wiig Reveals the Comedy Series She Can't Stop Watching

Kristen Wiig, a rare Saturday Night Live alumna to carve out a substantial career in film, has long been recognised for her versatility—writing, producing, and acting with equal flair. Yet, she’s quick to point out that this multi-hyphenate approach isn’t unique to her. Another comedy heavyweight, whom she openly admires, has set a similar precedent. While SNL once served as a springboard for the likes of Bill Murray, John Belushi, and Adam Sandler, the 21st century hasn’t seen quite as many of its stars make the leap to the big screen. Will Ferrell and Bill Hader are notable exceptions, but Wiig’s trajectory has been particularly striking, especially in how she’s broadened her creative reach behind the camera.

Hollywood’s track record with female comedians has been, to put it mildly, less than stellar. Wiig, however, proved impossible to overlook after scene-stealing turns in films such as Knocked Up and Adventureland. Her breakout moment arrived with Bridesmaids, a riotous ensemble piece she both wrote and led. Not only did it become one of the highest-grossing R-rated comedies ever, but it also earned her an Oscar nod for Best Original Screenplay. Despite such acclaim, Wiig has remained refreshingly grounded, often crediting other comics for inspiring her own work.

Wiig’s Comic Inspiration

In a candid chat with Women’s Health, Wiig singled out the original British version of The Office as the show that made her laugh the most.

“Ricky Gervais is beyond genius,”

she declared.

“It’s truly the only show I’ve actually gone out and bought the DVDs of.”

While the American adaptation, fronted by Steve Carell, may have eclipsed its predecessor in terms of cultural footprint, the UK original remains a sharp, often uncomfortable, and brilliantly subversive sitcom. Where the US version leans into warmth and camaraderie, Gervais’s take is unapologetically awkward—sometimes even a bit cruel—which, paradoxically, only heightens the humour.

Gervais, ever the gambler on his own talent, co-wrote, created, and starred in the series, joined by Stephen Merchant—another creative force in his own right. Wiig’s admiration for this approach is evident, as she’s mirrored it in her own projects, taking on multiple roles both in front of and behind the camera.

Crossing Paths with a Comedy Idol

It’s hardly surprising, then, that one of Wiig’s career highlights was sharing the screen with Gervais in Ghost Town, a darkly comic film where she relished the chance to work alongside her hero. Her career has only gathered pace since, with a recent acclaimed turn in the Apple TV drama Palm Royale. She’s made no secret of her enthusiasm for collaborating with Gervais again, should the stars align.

Gervais, meanwhile, continues to court both praise and controversy. His stand-up specials are lauded and frequently awarded, though they’ve also sparked criticism for remarks some deem deliberately provocative. Regardless, the prospect of Wiig and Gervais teaming up once more—whether in Palm Royale or a fresh venture—remains an enticing one for fans of sharp, boundary-pushing comedy.