Quick Summary
Wendi McLendon-Covey, best known for her role as Beverly Goldberg on The Goldbergs, once shared an unforgettable kiss with Steve Carell on The Office. In a recent interview, she revealed that Carell was a surprisingly good kisser, and she described the experience as falling “into a pile of blessings.” McLendon-Covey’s career has been marked by diverse roles, from comedic appearances on hit shows like The Office to her current starring role in St. Denis Medical. In this article, we’ll explore McLendon-Covey’s memorable The Office cameo, her reflections on working with Steve Carell, and how this iconic moment fits into her broader career trajectory.
Introduction
If you’ve ever watched The Office, you know that the show has a way of turning even the most mundane moments into laugh-out-loud gold. But what if we told you there was a moment that was not only funny but also, in a surprising twist, a little bit romantic? Wendi McLendon-Covey, who guest-starred on the show as Marie the hotel concierge, recently shared an unexpected tidbit on Watch What Happens Live—Steve Carell, who played the awkward but lovable Michael Scott, is a pretty good kisser!
Yes, you read that right. During an interview on Watch What Happens Live, McLendon-Covey revealed that she shared a kiss with Carell during her cameo, and it turns out, it wasn’t just a comedic moment—it was a “good” kiss. This revelation sent waves of surprise through the The Office fanbase and was just one of the many gems McLendon-Covey shared about her experience working on the iconic show.
But McLendon-Covey’s story didn’t stop there. Along with revealing her on-screen chemistry with Carell, she also shared personal anecdotes about her career, her role in The Office, and how she ended up on the show. Her candid and humorous reflections offer a fascinating look at a beloved moment in TV history.
In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into McLendon-Covey’s memorable cameo on The Office, the unexpected kiss with Steve Carell, and her journey through Hollywood—one that’s been full of surprises, career twists, and plenty of laughs.
Wendi McLendon-Covey’s Memorable The Office Cameo
Who is Wendi McLendon-Covey on The Office?
Wendi McLendon-Covey is no stranger to comedy, having been a part of several beloved TV shows and films. However, her cameo on The Office remains a standout moment for fans of the show. McLendon-Covey appeared in the season 5 episode titled “Business Trip,” where she played the role of Marie, a no-nonsense hotel concierge.
The episode follows Michael Scott (Steve Carell), Andy (Ed Helms), and Oscar (Oscar Nuñez) as they travel to Canada for a business trip. While at the hotel, Michael becomes immediately smitten with Marie, McLendon-Covey’s character, who shows little patience for his usual antics. Despite her tough exterior, there’s a spark between her and Michael, and viewers are treated to an unexpected kiss that left fans talking long after the episode aired.
McLendon-Covey’s performance as Marie was a hilarious contrast to Carell’s bumbling Michael Scott. As a hotel concierge, Marie is calm, collected, and sharp-witted—qualities that directly play off Michael’s awkwardness. The chemistry between McLendon-Covey and Carell made the kiss memorable, despite being a brief moment in a very short guest appearance.
The Kiss That Surprised Fans and Host Andy Cohen
In a recent Watch What Happens Live interview, McLendon-Covey spilled the beans about her The Office cameo, including the unexpected kiss with Carell. When host Andy Cohen asked her about the kiss, McLendon-Covey’s response was both surprising and hilarious. “He was a good kisser,” she said, adding, “I just fell into a pile of blessings.” Her admission caught Cohen—and fellow guest Stephanie Ruhle—off guard, as it wasn’t something fans expected to hear about from The Office cast.
The kiss itself was a lighthearted moment within the larger episode, but McLendon-Covey’s casual and humorous take on it only adds to the charm of the situation. It’s the kind of candid behind-the-scenes anecdote that The Office fans crave, and McLendon-Covey’s ability to laugh at the absurdity of it all makes her storytelling even more engaging.
Wendi McLendon-Covey Reflects on Her Career and Role in The Office
From Being Fired to Landing The Office
McLendon-Covey’s journey to The Office wasn’t exactly smooth sailing. In fact, she shared a rather humorous yet poignant story about how she was fired from another job for being “too ugly.” According to McLendon-Covey, she was let go from a project, and just as she was feeling down about it, an opportunity came knocking.
The next day, she received an offer to appear on The Office, and as she put it, it felt like she “fell into a pile of blessings.” This serendipitous timing worked out perfectly for McLendon-Covey, as it gave her a chance to work on one of the most iconic TV comedies of the time. It’s a story that perfectly encapsulates the unpredictability of Hollywood, where opportunities can arise when you least expect them.
Her First Impressions of Steve Carell and The Office Set
While McLendon-Covey may have been a newcomer to The Office, she was already well-versed in the world of comedy. Having spent years in the industry, she quickly adapted to the show’s unique style and dynamic. But working with Steve Carell left a lasting impression on her.
In her interview, McLendon-Covey shared her admiration for Carell’s comedic genius, mentioning that his timing and presence on set were exceptional. She fondly recalled how Carell made the set feel comfortable and natural, even when shooting scenes that required a bit of awkwardness—something Michael Scott is famous for. Carell’s professionalism and easygoing nature helped McLendon-Covey feel right at home, even during their brief interaction on screen.
For McLendon-Covey, the experience on The Office was a highlight of her career, and she has since expressed her gratitude for the chance to be a part of the iconic show, even if only for a single episode.
What Makes Steve Carell a Great On-Screen Kisser?
The Chemistry Between McLendon-Covey and Carell
It might seem like an odd question—what makes Steve Carell a good on-screen kisser? But when it comes to comedy, timing is everything. And in McLendon-Covey’s case, her kiss with Carell wasn’t just a physical gesture; it was a moment that captured their unique chemistry and added to the humor of The Office.
Carell’s portrayal of Michael Scott is known for being awkward and endearing. He’s not the typical romantic lead, but his charm lies in his sincerity and vulnerability. In their scene, McLendon-Covey’s character, Marie, is initially unimpressed by Michael’s antics, but there’s a subtle shift that happens, and the kiss feels like a natural conclusion to their brief interaction. It’s a kiss that plays with both humor and tenderness, much like the relationships on The Office often do.
The beauty of this kiss lies in the contrast between the two characters. Michael Scott’s awkwardness and Marie’s no-nonsense attitude create a tension that makes the moment all the more funny, yet surprisingly sweet. It’s the kind of moment The Office does best—unexpected, hilarious, and full of heart.
Fans React: The Power of Chemistry on The Office
As expected, fans of The Office were quick to react to McLendon-Covey’s revelation about the kiss. The idea of Michael Scott, the socially inept regional manager of Dunder Mifflin, being a surprisingly good kisser caught many off guard. But it makes sense when you consider Carell’s ability to bring nuance and depth to every aspect of Michael’s character.
What’s even more fascinating is how The Office has managed to create so many unexpected yet memorable relationships—whether it’s Jim and Pam, Michael and Holly, or even Michael and Marie. Each relationship has a unique dynamic, and the kiss with McLendon-Covey’s character is just one of many moments that contribute to the show’s lasting legacy. Fans continue to love these quirky connections because they feel real, even when the characters are far from perfect.
Wendi McLendon-Covey’s St. Denis Medical Role and Career Shifts
From The Office to St. Denis Medical
Wendi McLendon-Covey’s career has seen an interesting evolution, and her role on St. Denis Medical marks a significant shift from her earlier comedic roles. After making a name for herself on The Office and later starring in The Goldbergs, McLendon-Covey embraced a new challenge with St. Denis Medical, a workplace sitcom created by The Office co-executive producer Justin Spitzer.
In St. Denis Medical, McLendon-Covey plays a no-nonsense, often sarcastic character, far removed from the nurturing mother roles she’s known for on The Goldbergs. Her character on the NBC show works at a small and underfunded medical center in Oregon, managing an eclectic and endearingly quirky team of doctors, nurses, and staff.
What makes McLendon-Covey’s role in St. Denis Medical stand out is the stark contrast to her previous characters. “I didn’t want to play another mom right away,” she explained in interviews, adding that St. Denis Medical offered her a refreshing change. It’s a show that blends comedy with a look at the daily grind of hospital life, and McLendon-Covey’s dry wit and sharp comedic timing make her the perfect fit for the role.
A Career of Surprises and Bold Moves
Throughout her career, McLendon-Covey has continuously taken bold steps, finding roles that challenge her as an actress. This includes everything from playing Beverly Goldberg on The Goldbergs, where she portrayed a loving (if a bit overbearing) mother, to stepping into a new world of medical humor with St. Denis Medical. Her career is a testament to the importance of embracing change and growth in an industry that often wants actors to be typecast in one role. McLendon-Covey’s versatility is a key factor that has kept her career fresh and exciting.
In a recent interview, McLendon-Covey even joked about how she “fell into a pile of blessings” with her sudden and unexpected opportunity to appear on The Office. This sentiment encapsulates much of her career—a series of unexpected turns that have led to major success. From sitcoms to dramatic roles, McLendon-Covey continues to defy expectations, earning both critical and audience praise for her ability to inhabit a wide range of characters.
Behind-the-Scenes of The Office and Its Lasting Impact
The Set of The Office: A Comedy Classic
As iconic as The Office was in its run, it’s the behind-the-scenes stories that continue to keep fans engaged and make the show feel even more special. One of the most fascinating aspects of the show was its mockumentary style, which allowed the characters to break the fourth wall and interact with the camera in a way that felt fresh and unpredictable.
For McLendon-Covey, stepping into a world that was already beloved and well-established was both exciting and intimidating. But despite the pressure, she recalls the set of The Office as being warm and welcoming. She described Steve Carell’s leadership as helping ease any nerves she had about working on such a high-profile show. Carell, known for his humor and professionalism, made the experience a pleasant one, despite the challenges of working on a show that had such a specific tone and style.
The Enduring Legacy of The Office
Even though The Office ended in 2013, the show’s impact continues to be felt across pop culture. It has become one of the most-watched shows on streaming platforms, and its catchphrases, characters, and hilarious moments are still as beloved today as they were when the show first aired. For McLendon-Covey, her guest appearance on The Office helped solidify her place in the hearts of fans who continue to watch and rewatch the show.
The series’ mockumentary format not only changed the way sitcoms were made but also created a new language of humor—one that allowed the awkwardness of everyday life to shine through in a way that was both hilarious and relatable. McLendon-Covey’s role in this unforgettable ensemble only added to the show’s rich tapestry of eccentric characters and unforgettable moments.
Fun Facts and Behind-the-Scenes Stories About The Office
The Unexpected Success of the Kiss
Many fans remember McLendon-Covey’s brief but memorable kiss with Steve Carell in The Office’s “Business Trip” episode. But did you know that this kiss almost didn’t happen? McLendon-Covey revealed in interviews that the kiss wasn’t scripted in the way that most people assume. It wasn’t a major plot point, but rather a small moment of levity that fit within the comedic narrative of Michael Scott’s awkward romance. What made it stand out was how effortlessly it was performed, showcasing just how comfortable McLendon-Covey and Carell were with each other on set.
Fun Facts About the Iconic Dunder Mifflin Office
- The Office’s Iconic Desk: Many fans might not realize that the layout of the office, including Jim Halpert’s (John Krasinski) pranks on Dwight Schrute (Rainn Wilson), was carefully planned by set designers. The desks were strategically placed to allow for maximum comedic interaction between characters.
- Steve Carell’s Improvisation: Carell’s comedic genius was so apparent that many of his best lines in The Office were improvised. His ability to ad-lib and make his character’s awkwardness feel authentic helped elevate the humor of the show.
- A Surprise Cameo by Bryan Cranston: Fans of Breaking Bad were shocked to learn that Bryan Cranston, who played Walter White, made a brief cameo as a doctor on The Office. His appearance is just one of many unexpected moments that add to the show’s rich lore.
Conclusion
Wendi McLendon-Covey’s reflections on her The Office cameo, Steve Carell’s unexpected on-screen kiss, and her journey through Hollywood provide a unique glimpse into a career that continues to evolve in exciting ways. From her unexpected rise to fame in The Office to her role in St. Denis Medical, McLendon-Covey has built a career based on versatility, humor, and, most importantly, a genuine love for her craft.
Her experiences on The Office not only helped her become a household name but also gave us a treasure trove of memorable moments—from her interactions with Steve Carell to the hilarious behind-the-scenes stories that continue to make fans smile. And though her time on the show may have been brief, her impact on the series—like so many of its guest stars—remains a part of The Office legacy that fans will continue to enjoy for years to come.
As for the kiss? Well, McLendon-Covey’s takeaway from the experience sums it all up perfectly: “I just fell into a pile of blessings.” And for The Office fans, that’s one blessing we’ll always be grateful for.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What was Wendi McLendon-Covey’s role on The Office?
Wendi McLendon-Covey made a memorable guest appearance on The Office during Season 5, Episode 23, titled “Business Trip.” She portrayed Marie, a hotel concierge in Canada who becomes the object of Michael Scott’s (Steve Carell) brief romantic interest. McLendon-Covey’s character was no-nonsense and straightforward, providing a sharp contrast to Michael’s usual awkwardness, which made their on-screen chemistry particularly amusing.
2. What did Wendi McLendon-Covey think of Steve Carell’s kissing skills?
Wendi McLendon-Covey revealed in an interview on Watch What Happens Live that Steve Carell was a surprisingly good kisser! She described it as an unexpected and delightful experience, even joking that she “just fell into a pile of blessings” during the brief on-screen kiss. The kiss, although a small moment in The Office storyline, became one of the standout memories of McLendon-Covey’s time on the show.
3. Why did Wendi McLendon-Covey describe her cameo on The Office as a “pile of blessings”?
In her interview, McLendon-Covey explained that she had just been fired from another job, which she referred to as a project that “failed at the Huntington Beach Film Festival,” a setback that she joked “ruined careers.” However, the very next day, she received an offer to appear on The Office, which she saw as a fortunate turn of events, likening it to falling into a “pile of blessings.” This unexpected opportunity helped her transition into the kind of work that launched her career into new, more visible roles.
4. How did The Office influence modern sitcoms?
The Office revolutionized the sitcom genre with its mockumentary format, setting the stage for future shows like Parks and Recreation and Brooklyn Nine-Nine. The show’s unique ability to break the fourth wall and have characters directly address the camera gave it a distinct comedic style, one that relied on the awkwardness of everyday situations. This format not only changed the way sitcoms were structured but also contributed to the lasting impact of the characters, dialogue, and humor.
5. What is Wendi McLendon-Covey’s current role?
Currently, Wendi McLendon-Covey stars in St. Denis Medical, an NBC workplace sitcom. In this series, McLendon-Covey plays a sharp, no-nonsense character in a small medical center in Oregon. The show mixes comedy with the day-to-day challenges of a healthcare environment, and McLendon-Covey’s character is vastly different from the more nurturing roles she’s known for, like her portrayal of Beverly Goldberg on The Goldbergs. Her role in St. Denis Medical marks an exciting new chapter in her career.
6. Did Wendi McLendon-Covey ever expect to work with David Alan Grier?
In a fun and heartfelt moment during a recent interview, McLendon-Covey revealed that she never expected to work with comedian David Alan Grier, especially given her admiration for his work on In Living Color. She referred to him as a “cuddly yum-yum man,” expressing her joy and disbelief that they were now colleagues on St. Denis Medical. This highlights how McLendon-Covey’s career continues to surprise her, as she lands roles with some of the most respected figures in comedy.
7. How did Wendi McLendon-Covey’s career evolve after The Office?
After her time on The Office, McLendon-Covey’s career continued to grow, with roles in shows like The Goldbergs, where she portrayed the lovable yet overprotective mom Beverly Goldberg. She later transitioned to more diverse roles, including her current portrayal in St. Denis Medical. Her ability to switch between comedy and drama while continuing to build her portfolio in both TV and film is a testament to her versatility as an actress.
8. What is the significance of Wendi McLendon-Covey’s cameo on The Office?
Wendi McLendon-Covey’s cameo on The Office remains one of the show’s memorable guest appearances, thanks in part to the chemistry she shared with Steve Carell. Her role as Marie added to the comedic complexity of Michael Scott’s love life and provided a moment of levity in the show’s ongoing storyline. It’s also significant because it helped solidify McLendon-Covey’s status as a rising star in television comedy, leading to even bigger opportunities in the years to follow.
Author’s Note
As an avid fan of The Office and a longtime admirer of Wendi McLendon-Covey’s incredible comedic talent, writing this blog post has been an absolute pleasure. Wendi’s candid reflections on her career, her time on The Office, and her current role in St. Denis Medical offer a rare, behind-the-scenes glimpse into the world of television and the people who bring these beloved characters to life.
Her journey—from unexpected career shifts to building a diverse portfolio of roles—serves as an inspiring reminder that sometimes, the most rewarding opportunities come when we least expect them. Whether it’s a serendipitous cameo on a show that would go on to become a cultural phenomenon or a career-defining moment with legends like Steve Carell and David Alan Grier, Wendi McLendon-Covey’s story reminds us all that success often comes when we take bold risks and embrace the unexpected.
I hope you enjoyed learning more about Wendi’s experiences and the lasting impact of The Office, and I encourage you to explore her other work if you haven’t already—her versatility and charisma make her one of the most refreshing talents in comedy today.
Elisha Kyamb
Kyamb Elisha is the esteemed lead author at Fame to People, where her keen insights and engaging writing style set the tone for the publication’s dynamic content. With a rich background in journalism and a passion for storytelling, Kyamb has dedicated the past five years to crafting compelling articles for a variety of companies. Her expertise spans across diverse topics, but it is her fascination with celebrity culture that truly distinguishes her.
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