AceShowbiz - Rooster debuts tonight on HBO Max, marking the funniest TV project starring Steve Carell since his iconic role in The Office. Known for his early days in improvisational comedy and his legendary portrayal of Michael Scott on the NBC hit that ran from 2005 to 2013, Carell returns to the small screen with a fresh, laugh-packed series set in a college environment.

The new half-hour comedy follows bestselling author Greg Russo, played by Carell, who becomes deeply involved in his daughter’s complicated life and career challenges. Created by Bill Lawrence and Matt Tarses, Rooster premieres at 10 p.m. ET on March 8th, airing on both HBO and HBO Max. The series will unfold over 10 episodes, released weekly on Sundays, allowing fans to savor the humor and heart of the show as it progresses.

Alongside Carell, the cast includes Charly Clive, Danielle Deadwyler, Phil Dunster, John C. McGinley, and Lauren Tsai, each contributing to the dynamic campus setting and the comedic chemistry that keeps viewers entertained. The show’s humor largely stems from Greg’s awkward, overbearing, and somewhat naive attempts to navigate the modern university scene, providing a rich source of situational comedy.

Prior to its premiere, Rooster had already generated buzz with its trailer released in February. Fans and viewers flooded the comments, praising the two-minute clip for its humor and instantly drawing parallels between Greg Russo and Michael Scott. While early reviews note that Greg is quite distinct from Carell’s previous character, critics like Esquire’s Eric Francisco highlight that the role signals a "return to goofball mode" for the actor after a period dominated by dramatic performances.

Carell masterfully blends embarrassment, earnestness, and silliness to bring Greg to life, creating a character who is both relatable and hilariously out of touch. The show’s writing features fast-paced dialogue and a steady stream of jokes, but it balances comedy with meaningful emotional moments, adding a feel-good dimension that resonates with audiences. This balance has earned Rooster an 80% “Certified Fresh” rating on Rotten Tomatoes, signaling strong critical approval.

Fans of Rooster can expect to be hooked from the very first episode, which sets the tone for the rest of the season. However, as of now, HBO has not confirmed whether the series will be renewed for a second season. The decision will likely depend on how well the show performs with audiences across its 10-episode run.

The premiere night will be a major event for comedy lovers and Steve Carell fans eager to see him in a role that showcases his trademark humor in a new setting. With its blend of sharp wit, heartfelt moments, and a talented ensemble cast, Rooster is positioned to be a standout comedy on HBO Max this spring.

Don’t miss the first episode of Rooster tonight at 10 p.m. ET on HBO and HBO Max, with new episodes dropping every Sunday. Viewers are encouraged to share their thoughts and join the conversation about the show’s humor, characters, and potential future seasons.

For those still reminiscing about The Office, Rooster promises a fresh comedic experience that captures some of the charm and awkwardness that made Carell a household name, while exploring new narratives grounded in today’s college culture.