Tuesday, March 21, 2006
“The Office” Renews Character Blog Debate
byA few months ago, NBC created a blog for its comedy “The Office.” Posts from Dwight Schrute, the fictional office know-it-all who takes his job a little too seriously, routinely generate hundreds of comments per post. (A fan site noted that Rainn Wilson, the actor who plays Dwight, actually writes the posts.)
These types of character blogs are gaining popularity. One article notes that shows such as “General Hospital” have joined the list.
The value of character blogs – most often authored by a fictitious person, brand or toy – has been continually debated. Several noted bloggers – such as Steve Rubel and Neville Hobson – think character blogs are a complete waste of time, arguing that real dialogue cannot take place with fictional characters. Others (including Shel Holtz) don’t categorically dismiss them but feel they are rarely implemented effectively.
As blog adoption continues to grow, we’ll certainly see more character blogs – and they’ll likely continue to rankle early bloggers who feel strongly about the open, authentic nature of the medium. A branding essay from last year makes the distinction between character blogs (which are strictly for entertainment purposes) and transparent blogs, which attempt to connect an organization with its consumers. As long as a blog’s perspective and motivations are clear, there’s probably room for both types.
