Michael DeSanto, head of FilmToledo, said he’s spent the past year working closely with NBC to make the sitcom's portrayal of the Glass City feel authentic.
TOLEDO, Ohio — Move over, Scranton. NBC has a new workplace comedy, and this one calls Toledo home.
"The Paper," a new sitcom set at a fictional local newspaper called "The Truth Teller," is bringing Hollywood attention to the 419. The show, which will debut in September on the Peacock streaming service, will highlight the quirks, charm and culture of a Midwest newsroom, according to NBC — and it has deep ties to the real Toledo community.
Michael DeSanto, head of FilmToledo, said he’s spent the past year working closely with NBC to help bring the production to life.
“It’s great publicity for us,” DeSanto said. “They had a bunch of different departments reach out to me, getting the feel of Toledo’s culture, businesses, idiosyncrasies, even fashion.”
The show’s fictional setting may aim for laughs, but for those in the business of news, it hits close to home.
“I’m curious to see how they take it,” said Lori King, a longtime journalist and editor-in-chief of the Toledo Free Press. “But I know it’s a comedy, so what kind of stories are they going to cover?”
King hopes the show captures not just the humor of the newsroom, but the critical role of local journalism.
“We’re the grassroots of journalism,” she said. “It’s our job to tell the community what’s happening in their town. Without local news, you wouldn’t know anything.”
Credit: Aaron Epstein/PEACOCK
Beyond the storyline, the show is giving local businesses a nationwide platform. Toledo staples like the Walleye, Mud Hens and apparel company Jupmode are featured throughout the series.
“To be able to have our brand and our products seen nationwide is a really cool experience,” said Stephen Gullette, a marketing specialist for Jupmode.
Mugs, hats and local gear appear on-screen — a detail made possible through coordination with FilmToledo. For many involved, it's about more than exposure.
“It’s just really cool to see the sense of community and excitement around the show here in Toledo,” Gullette said.
DeSanto told WTOL 11 that the show will also reference Jeep, as well as the nickname "Glass City." He also said local businesses Balance Pan-Asian Grille, House of Dow and Destination Toledo may also make an appearance throughout.
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