In the expansive world of The Office, one character many fans remember is the one played by Jake Lacy — which is the key phrase: “Jake Lacy The Office character.” Lacy portrayed sales representative Pete Miller in the ninth and final season of The Office. This article explores how his role unfolded, its impact on the show, and what the actor has been doing most recently.
Background – Pete Miller on The Office
Jake Lacy’s character, Pete Miller, joined Dunder Mifflin’s Scranton branch during Season 9 of The Office (2012–2013).
Key points about the character:
- Pete was brought in alongside another new hire, Clark Green, to work in the annex during a period of staff changes.
- He earned nicknames like “New Jim” and “Plop” (the latter given by Andy Bernard) from fellow employees.
- Pete’s storyline included a budding relationship with Erin Hannon, played by Ellie Kemper, as well as his reflections on being the “new guy” in a long-established office environment.
For actor Jake Lacy, Pete Miller marked a breakout moment. Appearing in the final season of one of America’s most beloved sitcoms gave him nationwide exposure and helped pave the way for more complex roles in film and television.
Why Pete Miller Resonates
The “Jake Lacy The Office character” continues to stand out for several reasons:
- A Fresh Perspective: Pete brought youthful energy and a grounded sensibility to a series dominated by long-established characters.
- A Symbol of Transition: As The Office wound down, Pete represented the new generation entering the workplace—a contrast to veterans like Dwight Schrute and Jim Halpert.
- A Relatable Arc: Many viewers identified with Pete’s effort to find his place in a team where friendships and dynamics had long been established.
In memorable episodes like The Target and Couples Discount, Pete showed his thoughtful, sometimes awkward approach to teamwork, creativity, and office life.
Jake Lacy’s Career After The Office
Since The Office ended in 2013, Jake Lacy has built an impressive resume that spans comedy, drama, and thriller genres. Some highlights include:
- Television Success: Lacy appeared in acclaimed shows such as Girls, The White Lotus, and I’m Dying Up Here. His portrayal of Shane Patton in The White Lotus earned him critical praise and an Emmy nomination.
- Film Roles: He starred in Carol, Obvious Child, and How to Be Single, showcasing his range beyond television comedy.
- Recent Projects: In 2025, Lacy plays Peter Irvine in the Peacock thriller All Her Fault, opposite Sarah Snook. The limited series has been praised for its gripping story and strong performances, with Lacy’s role adding emotional depth to the complex narrative.
Through these performances, Lacy has transitioned from the nice-guy archetype of Pete Miller to portraying layered, sometimes morally ambiguous characters.
Latest Update on Jake Lacy’s Career (as of November 2025)
As of November 2025, Jake Lacy continues to enjoy a steady career rise:
- All Her Fault premiered this month and concluded with an unexpected finale twist involving Lacy’s character.
- The actor has been praised for his ability to play both charming and conflicted roles, proving his versatility beyond comedy.
- Lacy has expressed fondness for The Office in recent interviews, calling it one of the most formative experiences of his career. He has also mentioned that if the show ever revisited his character, he would be open to returning—as long as they call him “Pete” instead of “Plop.”
The Legacy of Jake Lacy’s The Office Character
Even more than a decade after The Office ended, Pete Miller remains a topic of conversation among fans. Here’s why the “Jake Lacy The Office character” still matters:
- Underrated Character: Pete is often mentioned in discussions about underappreciated late-series characters. His storyline provided closure for Erin’s character and gave audiences a sense of new beginnings.
- Symbol of Change: As The Office moved toward its conclusion, Pete represented a generational shift, reflecting the evolving nature of workplace culture.
- A Launchpad for Lacy: Playing Pete Miller set the stage for Jake Lacy’s transition from network comedy to premium-cable drama and streaming success.
For many fans, Pete embodies the feeling of being the newcomer in an established team—making him one of the show’s most relatable late additions.
Why This Matters for U.S. Audiences
American audiences have long cherished The Office as a cornerstone of early 2000s television. Today, as new generations discover the series through streaming platforms like Peacock and Netflix, the “Jake Lacy The Office character” is experiencing renewed attention.
Viewers often recognize Lacy from his later, more dramatic roles and are pleasantly surprised to rediscover his origins in The Office. That familiarity bridges nostalgia and modern fandom, connecting different eras of TV comedy.
Moreover, Pete Miller’s character mirrors a universal American workplace experience—trying to fit in, make friends, and find purpose in a professional setting. That theme continues to resonate deeply across all age groups.
Jake Lacy’s Impact and Future Prospects
Looking ahead, Jake Lacy remains one of Hollywood’s most versatile actors. With major roles in both television and streaming platforms, he continues to balance charisma with complexity.
His early role as Pete Miller not only marked his entry into mainstream entertainment but also hinted at his talent for subtle, emotionally rich performances. Whether in drama or comedy, Lacy consistently brings authenticity to his characters.
As he continues his journey with projects like All Her Fault, audiences remain curious about his next move—and many still associate him with the warmth and sincerity of his Office persona.
Jake Lacy’s portrayal of Pete Miller stands as a reminder of how even a late-series addition can leave a lasting impression. His growth from “Plop” to powerhouse actor reflects a career built on genuine skill, adaptability, and heart.
What did you think of Jake Lacy’s role in The Office? Share your thoughts about Pete Miller’s place in TV history in the comments below.