The Office Episode That Changed Steve Carell’s Michael Scott Forever Also Solved The Show’s Biggest Mystery

The episode of The Office that changed Michael Scott forever — season 2, episode 7, “The Client” — also answered the biggest question that fans had about the character. In its first season, the U.S. remake of The Office was more or less a carbon copy of the original British series. The pilot script was copied almost word-for-word and the low-key tone and agonizing cringe humor were adapted faithfully. But that didn’t quite work for an American audience, so the writers had to do some retooling in season 2.

The biggest change The Office made after a so-so season 1 was making Michael more sympathetic. In season 2, episode 1, “The Dundies,” the employees rally behind Michael after he’s embarrassed by some Chili’s patrons. In season 2, episode 3, “Office Olympics,” Jim gave Michael a gold medal to pick up his spirits after a bad day. But it wasn’t until season 2, episode 7, “The Client,” that Michael came into his own and his success at Dunder Mifflin finally made sense.

The Office Season 2, Episode 7 Showed What Michael Is Like As A Salesman

It Also Solidified Michael As His Own Character (Not Just A Copy Of David Brent)

In “The Client,” Michael and Jan go to Chili’s to meet with a key potential client, Christian, one of The Office’s best one-off characters, played by Tim Meadows. Initially, Jan is frustrated by Michael. She just wants to talk business with Christian and Michael keeps derailing the conversation to tell jokes and sing “Chili’s Baby Back Ribs.” But Jan gradually realizes that Michael’s distractions are getting Christian to enjoy his company and let his guard down.

It showed that Michael isn’t just a bumbling buffoon; he’s a gifted salesman. After softening up Christian, Michael ends up landing his business, which leaves Jan unexpectedly surprised by his sales skills. This episode further solidified Michael as his own character, separate from his British counterpart, David Brent. Michael is much warmer, kinder, and more creative than David, and despite the occasional social blind spot, he’s much better at dealing with people. In season 1, Michael was just a copy of David, but in season 2, he came into his own.

“The Client” Perfectly Explained Why Michael Scott Became Regional Manager

He’s A Great Salesman With Impressive People Skills

Before “The Client,” it was unclear how Michael had managed to rise through the ranks and become the regional manager of the Scranton branch. He’s shown to be brash and unintelligent, and he’s constantly being reprimanded by corporate. But “The Client” showed that Michael was once a great salesman, and he has considerable people skills. The Office’s biggest mystery was solved: from Jan to Christian to David Wallace, Michael has a knack for winning people over.