When 'The Office' Star Brian Baumgartner's Voice Made a Kid Cry

Roger Ebert

Pulitzer Prize-winning film critic whose reviews and essays defined cinema criticism for decades.

In a lighthearted incident that showcased the unexpected impact of his distinctive voice, Brian Baumgartner, widely recognized for his portrayal of Kevin Malone on the hit series "The Office," recounted a memorable ski trip experience with television meteorologist Dylan Dreyer and their respective families. What began as an innocent attempt to rally the children for ski school quickly turned into a tearful moment for Dreyer’s young son, Oliver, who misinterpreted Baumgartner's naturally booming voice as yelling. This amusing misunderstanding has since become a running joke between the two families, underscoring the enduring connection forged through shared vacations and a good sense of humor.

The story unfolded during a recent appearance by Baumgartner on Dreyer's online segment, "The Parent Chat," where the longtime friends discussed their families' joint ski holiday. Accompanied by Baumgartner's wife, Celeste, and their two daughters, alongside Dreyer’s three sons, including six-year-old Oliver, the group embarked on what was meant to be a fun-filled excursion. However, one morning, as Baumgartner tried to hasten the children along for their ski lessons, Oliver, who was particularly fond of breakfast, became visibly distressed. Dreyer observed her son's cheeks trembling and eyes welling up as Baumgartner continued his urging.

Upon seeing Oliver's reaction, Dreyer instinctively asked, "Did Brian yell at you?" This simple question prompted an immediate outpouring of tears from the young boy. Baumgartner, taken aback, insisted he hadn't raised his voice, attributing the misconception to his naturally deep and resonant tone. Dreyer conceded that for a five-year-old, distinguishing between a loud voice and genuine anger could be challenging. The incident, though initially upsetting for Oliver, quickly became a source of amusement and a cherished memory for both families.

Reflecting on the enduring legacy of "The Office," Baumgartner shared insights into his relationship with the iconic sitcom, which spanned nine seasons from 2005 to 2013. He noted that playing Kevin Malone consumed nearly a decade of his life, a period he likened to progressing from high school through several years of college. The immersive nature of the show, which produced around 30 episodes annually, fostered profound relationships among the cast and crew, leading to a strong identification with their characters. Following the show's conclusion, Baumgartner initially sought to distance himself from the role, declining similar parts to avoid being typecast. However, with "The Office" maintaining its popularity through reruns and streaming, he has come to appreciate the show's impact and the comfort it brings to countless fans, viewing it as a significant blessing.

Ultimately, the comical ski trip episode serves as a delightful testament to the genuine friendship between Brian Baumgartner and Dylan Dreyer, demonstrating how even a simple misunderstanding can strengthen bonds and create lasting, humorous memories between loved ones. It also subtly highlights Baumgartner's continued embrace of his iconic role, recognizing the positive influence "The Office" has had on its audience.

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