Leslie David Baker, best known for his portrayal of the curmudgeonly Stanley Hudson on the hit NBC sitcom The Office, has embarked on a new career path, opening a Honey Baked Ham franchise in Sherman Oaks, California. The 68-year-old actor celebrated the grand opening of his new restaurant this past weekend, which was attended by several of his former Office co-stars, including Rainn Wilson, Phyllis Smith, and Craig Robinson.
"It was such a joy to be able to share such a delicious moment with my friends, family and cohorts from The Office," Baker told The Daily Mail. "Lots of fun, laughter, and good food."
The new Honey Baked Ham location marks a return of the franchise to the neighborhood, according to Baker. He noted that the previous shop closed its doors a decade ago, and he had struggled to find a suitable replacement. This absence inspired him to open his own establishment, aiming to offer a convenient, one-stop shop for various food needs.
"You don’t have to go get your meats (in) one place, your vegetables somewhere else, your salads another place, your desserts, you can feed your family and make one stop," Baker explained.
The grand opening featured complimentary tastings, a live DJ set, and a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Baker, who co-owns the shop with business partner Tony Vinnie, posted on Instagram expressing his pride in bringing the franchise to the community. He highlighted the day's offerings, including family meal specials and a 20% discount.
This venture represents a significant career pivot for Baker, who previously worked as an administrator at a Chicago health department before pursuing acting. He relocated to Los Angeles at age 40 and landed the role of Stanley Hudson on The Office in 2005. The character became a fan favorite for his deadpan delivery and disdain for his boss, Michael Scott, portrayed by Steve Carell.
Baker has expressed that he views the continued recognition for his role on The Office as an honor. "It’s an honor and a privilege to have that type of recognition," he said.
The Office, an American adaptation of the British series created by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant, aired for nine seasons from 2005 to 2013 and garnered five Emmy awards. The series explored the daily lives of office employees at a paper company branch in Scranton, Pennsylvania, with a cast that included Rainn Wilson as Dwight Schrute, John Krasinski, Mindy Kaling, Jenna Fischer, and Angela Kinsey.
The universe of The Office has continued to expand, with series creator Greg Daniels launching a spin-off series, The Paper, last year. A second season of the spin-off has already been confirmed.