Domhnall Gleeson has been one of the most compelling presences on television this year, and his recent appearance on the TV Topics couch only reinforced just how much thought and warmth he brings to his craft.

The Irish actor sat down for a genuinely enjoyable conversation centred on his standout work in THE PAPER, the acclaimed Peacock mockumentary that has won over critics and audiences alike since its debut in September 2025. Set in the same universe as THE OFFICE, the series follows the documentary crew as they train their cameras on the Toledo Truth Teller, a struggling Midwestern newspaper whose passionate new editor-in-chief, Ned Sampson, is determined to drag it back from the brink.

In the interview, Gleeson was refreshingly candid and characteristically charming as he opened up about what drew him to Ned and what it has been like inhabiting such a richly comic yet deeply human character. He touched on the particular joy of playing someone who is equal parts idealist and loveable goofball, and spoke warmly about the ensemble dynamic that gives the show so much of its texture and heart. Perhaps most delightfully, he shared what his famous father, Brendan Gleeson, made of the performance — always a talking point that Domhnall handles with easy good humour.

The romance brewing between Ned and Mare also came up, offering a glimpse into the emotional undercurrent that gives THE PAPER something to say beyond the laughs. It is the kind of interview that reminds you why this actor continues to be such a compelling figure to watch, both on screen and off.