ED, Jan 04, (V7N) - Chris Pratt expressed his concerns about the mean-spirited jokes made about Jerry Gergich, played by Jim O'Heir, on the popular show Parks and Recreation. In a conversation from O'Heir’s new book Welcome to Pawnee: Stories of Friendship, Waffles, and Parks and Recreation, Pratt recalled checking in on his co-star, especially when the jokes seemed to cross the line from funny to hurtful.
 
Pratt shared that he cared deeply for O'Heir and didn't want any jokes to go too far. He remembered specifically one moment when Jerry's name appeared on a piece of paper with the phrase “Jerry sucks,” and Pratt voiced his concern, saying, "I don’t think that’s funny." He emphasized that while humor is important, jokes should not be mean for the sake of being mean.
 
O'Heir, who played Jerry for seven seasons, was often the target of mockery from his coworkers on the show, who would frequently mix up his name, calling him Garry, Larry, Terry, or Barry. Despite the constant ridicule, O'Heir didn’t take it personally, but he was touched by Pratt's kindness and support.
 
O'Heir expressed his gratitude, telling Pratt, “That meant the world to me,” acknowledging that both Pratt and Amy Poehler had checked in on him. O'Heir appreciated their concern, saying it was special to have such thoughtful co-stars.
 
In an earlier podcast episode of Parks and Recollection, which O'Heir co-hosts with writer Greg Levine, the character's mistreatment was also discussed. Levine remarked that Jerry’s happiness came from his rich personal life, despite the mockery at work. O'Heir agreed, noting that the show’s creators, including Mike Schur, made sure Jerry's personal life was fulfilling, with Jerry being portrayed as having a better life than any of the other characters, despite his workplace struggles.
 
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