Ryan Howard

Ryan Bailey Howard is a fictional character in the American television series,The Office. He is portrayed by B. J. Novak, who served as a writer, director, and executive producer for the show. He is based on the character of Ricky Howard from the original British version of The Office, as well as Neil Godwin during the fourth season. His role eventually became a recurring character. The name was a tribute to the Philadelphia Phillies' starting first baseman during the series' first run. Character profile Little is shown in the show about the character's early life, but it is revealed in a deleted scene from "Diversity Day" that he grew up in Scranton. In the episode "The Story of Subtle Sexuality," Ryan mentions that his parents live in separate houses. At the beginning of the series, Ryan Howard is a temporary employee at the Scranton branch of the fictitious paper distributor, Dunder Mifflin, who joined the staff in the first episode, earning him the nickname "The Temp." In early episodes, he is shown to be uncomfortable with his professional relationship with his boss, Michael Scott. Michael often forces Ryan to carry out menial tasks for him, while at the same time becoming obsessed with Ryan's personal life and trying to gain Ryan's friendship. As the series progresses, Ryan begins to display a great deal of contempt and disdain for both his coworkers and his job. This becomes more apparent when Ryan is promoted in "The Job" to work at Dunder Mifflin's corporate office in New York. This leads to Ryan becoming an egotistical braggart despite lackluster sales skills. In the season 4 finale "Goodbye, Toby," Ryan is arrested for committing fraud. He is eventually released and required to work community service.