Michael Scott won't be putting in for a transfer from Dunder Mifflin's Scranton branch anytime soon.

Steve Carell, who portrays the inept regional manager on NBC's hugely popular The Office, says he'll be with the Emmy-winning comedy for at least another three seasons despite his burgeoning big-screen career.

"All of the main cast are signed for three more. Beyond that, I have no idea."

Last month's season finale introduced a new human resources foil and possible love interest for Michael in Oscar-nominated Amy Ryan (Gone Baby Gone).

As well, it re-introduced Melora Hardin as his controlling -- and now pregnant -- ex. Although the child isn't Michael's, the season ended with the possibility of him becoming a surrogate father.

"I have no idea what's going to happen in the next episode, but I can't wait to find out. I think Amy Ryan will be coming back, which I'm looking forward to because I thought she was terrific."

The success of The Office, which is a smash with the young urban TV viewers advertisers covet, couldn't stand in starker contrast to Carell's first sitcom.

Before he joined The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, he starred with Tim Curry in a short-lived, critically-reviled restaurant-set comedy entitled Over the Top.

"I was the chef. I had such hopes for that, but in your heart of hearts, you know what something is. You just hope people like it in spite of what it is."