One of the most high-profile job openings in Office history — the role of Pam’s mom — has been filled. And true to their word, producers resisted the urge to cast Meryl Streep. Or Goldie Hawn. Or Bonnie Hunt. Or…… anyone else whose name you’d recognize. Instead, the plum part went to Linda Purl, a relatively unknown actress whose biggest claim to fame was playing Andy Griffith’s daughter on Matlock.

Stop the presses! On second though, don’t.

It’s not like I didn’t see this coming though. Last month, Office producer/star B.J. Novak warned me that Mrs. Beasley probably wouldn’t get an A- (or B- or C-) list portrayer. “That’s the rule we have stuck to on our show — it is supposed to be real average Joes, and casting a famous actor takes away from that,” he said. “We have only cast a famous actor when they can blend right in as was the case with Amy Ryan. Or if it makes sense for the role, like with Jack Black.”

I can respect that. I don’t have to like it, but I can respect it.

Back to whatsherface Purl, she’ll make her Office debut next month at Pam and Jim’s wedding.

Bonus footnote: This is technically a recast. We first caught a glimpse of Pam’s mom in season 2 when she was played by actress Shannon Cochran (The Ring).

http://ausiellofiles.ew.com/2009/09/01/office-exclusive-meet-pams-mom/?xid=rss-feed-top25-%27Office%27+exclusive%3A+Meet+Pam%27s+mom%21

Linda Purl also played Fonzie's most serious girlfriend, Ashley Pfister, on Happy Days.

Linda was also on like 40+ made for TV movies and also is a cabaret singer..

Here is a link to her blog on lindapurl.comt: http://www.lindapurl.com/linda-purl-rsvps-for-the-wedding-of-the-year-on-the-nbc-hit-series-the-office

I think the role of Pam's Mom is a unnecessary Role. What the hell do we need to see her for?