The seventh season will consist of 25 half-hours of material. The season will premiere on September 23, 2010. This season will be the final season for Steve Carell as the lead character Michael Scott, as Carell wants to move on after his contract expires after this season. Beginning with this season, Zach Woods, who portrays Gabe Lewis, was promoted to a series regular. Guest appearances in the upcoming season include the return of Melora Hardin as Jan Levinson, Amy Ryan as Holly Flax, and Kathy Bates as Jo Bennett; while Timothy Olyphant will portray a new character.