The "Ryan started the fire" reference primarily points to a popular fan-made parody song based on the iconic TV show The Office, which itself draws inspiration from a memorable episode where a character named Ryan unintentionally causes a fire.
Origins of the Reference
The phrase "Ryan started the fire" comes from the debut single of the alternative/hip-hop/comedy group Famosiz. This song is a direct parody of "We Didn't Start the Fire" by the legendary artist Billy Joel. Instead of chronicling historical events, Famosiz's version humorously recounts various events and character arcs from the beloved NBC sitcom, The Office.
The direct inspiration for the song's title and central theme stems from a specific episode in the show's second season. In this episode, the Dunder Mifflin Scranton office is evacuated due to an incident involving Ryan Howard, the young temporary employee.
Here's a quick summary of the song's key attributes:
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Title | Ryan Started the Fire |
| Artist | Famosiz (Alternative/Hip-Hop/Comedy Group) |
| Parody Of | "We Didn't Start the Fire" by Billy Joel |
| Subject | Events and characters from NBC's The Office |
| Inspiration | The Office Season 2, Episode "The Fire" (Ryan Howard's incident) |
The Iconic Episode: "The Fire"
The specific episode that inspired the "Ryan started the fire" song and popular phrase is titled "The Fire," which is the fourth episode of The Office's second season. In this memorable installment:
- The Incident: Ryan Howard, then a temp, accidentally starts a small fire in the office kitchen while attempting to make a "pita pizza" using a George Foreman grill.
- Office Evacuation: The incident leads to the entire Dunder Mifflin Scranton staff evacuating the building and spending their workday outside.
- Team Building: While outside, Michael Scott attempts to bond with his employees through various activities, including a game of "Desert Island" and a rendition of "We Didn't Start the Fire," where he hilariously misremembers the lyrics and inadvertently gives Ryan credit for starting the fire by chanting, "Ryan started the fire!" This specific moment is where the popular phrase is directly born within the show's narrative.
- Character Dynamics: The episode highlights Michael's often misguided attempts at leadership and camaraderie, Jim and Pam's growing friendship, and Dwight's extreme dedication to safety protocols.
This episode is often cited by fans as a classic example of The Office's humor, character development, and unique workplace dynamics. You can find more details about this episode on dedicated fan wikis like The Office Wiki's page for "The Fire".
Cultural Impact and Parody
The Famosiz song became a hit among The Office fandom because it perfectly encapsulated the show's spirit and characters through a well-known musical parody. It served as a tribute, reminding fans of beloved moments and inside jokes. The phrase "Ryan started the fire" has since become a widely recognized reference, not just for the song, but also as a direct nod to the chaotic and comical events of the specific Office episode. It's a testament to the show's lasting cultural impact and its ability to inspire creative fan content.
