10 Saddest TV Character Exits That Made You Cry
2. Michael Scott - The Office
Oof, now this is a hard one... that's what she said.
Michael Scott was the epitome of what elevated the American version of The Office above the British one. While Ricky Gervais was excellent as David Brent, the whole schtick was that he was god-awful as a boss. Michael may not have been the World's Best Boss as his coffee cup claimed, but he genuinely loved his employees. Even if he did try a little hard to be loved in return.
It wasn't just his exit that tugged at the heartstrings either. His sprinkler-soaked proposal to Holly was endearingly goofy, and so fitting for them as a couple. Arguably his finest moment though was Pam's art show. With Oscar the only one to show up (and make some sneering comments to boot), Pam is devastated. As she solemnly packs her things, Michael rushes in. He heaps genuine praise on her, so proud that she chose to paint Dunder Mifflin.
It's fitting then, that Pam rushes in just in time as Michael leaves. In a subtle homage to Lost In Translation, we see them exchange words. But as Michael has already taken off his mic, we never hear what he says to her.