He is portrayed by B. Novak also served as a writer, director, and executive producer for the show. He is based on the character Ricky Howard from the original British version of The Office , as well as Neil Godwin during the fourth season. The name is a tribute to the Philadelphia Phillies ' starting first baseman during the series' first run.
Little is shown in the show about the character's early life, but it is revealed in a deleted scene from " Diversity Day " that he grew up in Scranton. In the web episode " The Story of Subtle Sexuality ," Ryan mentions that his parents live in separate houses. At the beginning of the series, Ryan Howard is a temporary employee at the Scranton branch of the fictitious paper distributor, Dunder Mifflin , who joined the staff in the first episode, earning him the nickname "The Temp.
In early episodes, he is shown to be uncomfortable with his professional relationship with his boss, Michael Scott. Michael often forces Ryan to carry out menial tasks for him, while at the same time becoming obsessed with Ryan's personal life and trying to gain Ryan's friendship.
As the series progresses, Ryan begins to display a great deal of contempt and disdain for both his coworkers and his job. In the Season 4 finale, " Goodbye, Toby ," Ryan is arrested for committing fraud. He is eventually released and sentenced to work community service.
In the Season 5 premiere, Ryan returns to the Scranton branch of Dunder Mifflin after Michael arranges for him to replace their previous receptionist, Pam Beesly. His aspirations to climb back to the top of the corporate ladder are revealed when he adds coworkers Jim Halpert and Kevin Malone to a list of people who "will be sorry" when he returns to the top.
