Craig Robinson, best known for his iconic role as Darryl Philbin on The Office, has announced that he is stepping away from comedy—at least for now. In a heartfelt Instagram video, Robinson shared that he is quitting comedy to pursue what he describes as his “true calling.” While he didn’t go into specifics about what that calling is, he emphasized that it’s something big and urged his fans to stay tuned. He expressed gratitude to his supporters, saying it had been an “amazing run,” and closed his message with a warm thank you.
Robinson has had a varied and successful career across television, film, and live performance. In addition to The Office, he has appeared in shows like Brooklyn Nine-Nine, The Cleveland Show, and Ghosted. He’s also known for his comedic roles in hit films such as Pineapple Express, Hot Tub Time Machine, This Is the End, and Sausage Party. But Robinson’s talents extend beyond comedy and acting. He’s also a musician and has long performed with his band, The Nasty Delicious, blending funk, hip-hop, and R&B. In past interviews, he’s shared how powerful and emotional performing music can be for him, describing it as a space where he feels truly alive and inspired.
His announcement sparked a wave of reactions from fans and fellow celebrities. Comedian Howie Mandel jokingly referenced a possible new career as a dancer, while Arsenio Hall teased that Robinson might be heading into preaching. David Arquette chimed in with encouragement, hoping that music would play a role in whatever Robinson does next. Even Kate Flannery, who played Meredith on The Office, offered her love and support, cheering him on with a message of encouragement. Fans also flooded the comments with humorous nods to The Office, joking about whether Robinson might be starting a paper warehouse of his own.
Shortly after the announcement, Robinson hinted at what may lie ahead by posting a follow-up message asking for advice on starting a small business. Though he remained tight-lipped about the details, he noted that turning a dream into a business with friends had proven more complex than expected. For now, Robinson has kept the nature of the new venture under wraps, but his shift in focus suggests that fans will see a different side of him in the near future—one possibly centered around creativity, entrepreneurship, and perhaps a deeper connection to his musical passions.
