Hmm ... just a few weeks after Ricky Gervais posted on his blog that his dream replacement for Steve Carell on the US Office is Will Arnett, both comedy heavyweights are now slated to appear in the one-hour season 7 finale, set to air May 19.

Details about the pivotal episode are slim, according to EW, who broke the story this morning. Not because they're keeping secrets (though they're likely doing that, too!) but because the episode is still being written. As we learned earlier this spring, Will Ferrell will also appear in a few episodes as a guest (and only a guest, not a Michael Scott replacement), and EW notes that "there will be other notable guest stars as well."

Steve Carell's last Office episode airs April 28, and it's all still speculation as to who will replace his character as the new regional manager. EW's source warns us that "one shouldn't assume that just because Gervais and Arnett are in the finale, that either is going to replace Carell next season as the Office boss." But Gervais's recent cameo as David Brent, and his declaration that Arnett might be the best man for the job, certainly point to their both being frontrunners for the gig. Or am I just hoping and dreaming here?

Time will tell what becomes of The Office without Michael, and the clock is ticking. Thursday The Office returns from a brief hiatus with "Garage Sale," and judging from this promo, it's going to be a big day for Michael and Holly ...




(Images courtesy of NBC)