NEW YORK: NBC says Ricky Gervais will make a cameo appearance on “The Office” next week, reprising the role he played in the original British version that he helped create. NBC said Wednesday that Gervais' brief appearance on Jan. 27 will be as David Brent. That's the smart-alecky paper salesman who inspired the character of Michael Scott, portrayed by Steve Carell on NBC's successful adaptation of the comedy. Gervais, who caused a stir as the insult-slinging host of the Golden Globes earlier this week, serves as an executive producer of NBC's “The Office.” Gervais initially struck a brave tone on his website, saying he “enjoyed the Globes more this year. I think I had better gags.” He also rejected as “rubbish” the rumor that he was censored as the show progressed. But on Tuesday, he admitted verging on self-doubt in the face of criticism. “Thanks to the twitterverse, the blogosphere, all the journos and the coolest stars for coming to my rescue,” he said in a posting at rickygervais.com. “It was heartwarming to realize I wasn't losing my mind. Some reactions nearly had me believing I'd gone too far too. Nearly.”
