Adam Scott Says ‘Parks and Recreation' Would Be ‘Different' in Trump Era'

Adam Scott opened up to Variety about how he thinks the hit sitcomParks and Recreation would differ because of the current president.

The comedy series ran for seven seasons from 2009-2015, following government employees in a small town. Scott plays BenWyatt, a state auditor and love interest for the main character LeslieKnope, played by AmyPoehler.

The Big Little Lies actor reflected on how President DonaldTrump's policies would influence the show if it were still on.

"It is a dark time right now. And I do feel like our country may have lost what was left of its innocence in 2015, when Donald Trump stepped up and stepped into politics," he said. "And it's easy to forget just how much our country has changed in the last 10 or 11 years."

In hard times, Scott knows the NBC sitcom is a positive outlet for many people.

"I think back on ‘Parks and Rec' and the hope and joy that it brings people," he said. "It's so lovely to hear from people that it helped them through the pandemic or helps them through trying times now.

The 58-year-old actor isn't sure how the series would look in the current political era

"But as far as whether it could kind of survive or how it would sit in the now if it started now: Certainly, it would be different," he said.

While the mockumentary-style series may require changes if still airing, Scott has seen that current comedy shows have overcome the challenge.

"But something like ‘Abbott Elementary' is able to maintain this really lovely tone, and it's able to be hilarious and heartfelt and all of those things in a climate that isn't always conducive to that. They're able to protect themselves and make this great show. I think there's always an audience for that."

Scott is starring in the new film Hokum, hitting theatres May 1, 2026.

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This story was originally published April 30, 2026 at 4:26 PM.