Mere moments before UK resident Jody Parrish was about to commit suicide, he accidentally stepped on a TV remote and turned on a DVD of the UK version of the sitcom “The Office,” which turned his life around.

Parrish, 32, said he had written a suicide note when he stepped on the remote control and stopped his plans kill himself and watch his sister’s DVD instead. The father of two said he spent five hours watching the first season of the show, laughing at the show’s lead character, David Brent, played by actor Ricky Gervais, the Sun reported on Monday.

“Dave Brent saved my life," Parrish said. "I’d not seen it in years, but I don’t think I ever laughed so much. I realized I had something to live for.”

Parrish said he was resorting to suicide after the demise of a six-year relationship and was at his mom’s home in Liversedge, West Yorkshire, where he intended to carry out his plan.

“The Office” fan is currently on medication and combating depression.

“I am determined to get help,” he said.

Gervais commented on the report by saying he was “pleased” he could be of help to Parrish.

Gervais went on a tweeting spree about death this week, quoting facts about how often people die.

“The Office” is a mockumentary sitcom based on the daily office happenings of paper manufacturing company. Gervais was awarded BAFTA awards in 2003 and 2004 for best comedy performance for his portrayal of his role on the show as an overbearing boss. The sitcom premiered in 2001 and aired for three seasons.

A U.S. version of the program began in 2005 starring Steve Carrel as Gervais’ American counterpart, Michael Scott; the show is currently in its ninth and final season. The series finale will air on May 16.

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