Ricky Gervais has voiced his support for Steve Carell's decision to leave the US version of 'The Office'.
The actor, who created the original UK version of the show and played the character of David Brent, thinks that Carell has chosen the right time to quit the show.
Gervais wrote on his official blog: "It was expected of me, as executive producer, to persuade him to stay on. With syndication in full swing the more successful the show remains, the more billions we all make. It was tempting, but the truth is, I believe he is doing the right thing. He's fulfilled his contract and more, and is a huge film star now. I knocked it on the head after 12 episodes and a Christmas special.
"I'd be lying if I said he should do more. He shouldn't. He should move on, continue to do great work, and buy a new house every time 'The Office' is repeated somewhere. (That's what I do. Maybe I'll buy one next door to him one day. That'll teach him.)"
Her also paid tribute to Carell, saying: "He is quite possibly the nicest, hardest-working man in America and it has been a joy working with him over the last six years."
Earlier this week, Carell confirmed that he would be leaving the show after the 2010-2011 season.
