John Krasinski Discusses Why He Avoids Reading Online Comments

John Krasinski has embraced his prominent public life. However, he made a long-term decision to avoid reading online comments. The 45-year-old actor learned this early in his career during the run of "The Office." "I remember our computers were live, the early days of Myspace and IMDb chat rooms," he shares in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE.

His co-star Jenna Fischer had a keen interest in the online reactions. She often informed the cast, saying things like, "Last night's episode was loved!" The actor recalls feeling compelled to join in the discussion. "One of my first experiences in that rabbit hole made me think, 'Oh my God, what did they say?'"

Krasinski choses not to indulge in those comments. "Oh dear Lord," he remembers reacting to some of the feedback. "I have never gone back." He admitted, "Truly, that scared the absolute hell out of me in those early chat rooms. I shudder to think what it is now."

After nine successful years on "The Office," Krasinski co-wrote, directed, and starred in the thriller "A Quiet Place." This project, featuring his wife Emily Blunt, added to his acclaim. The film’s success led to two sequels. In addition, Krasinski stayed in top shape for his lead role as Jack Ryan in the acclaimed Prime Video series, which is now set for adaptation as a film.

Moment of Recognition in New York City

Krasinski finally recognized his fame while in New York City. Reliving the moment, he reflects, "It must have been season two of "The Office" because iPods had just launched." A stranger approached him, holding an iPod and saying, "Look, you’re on my iPod."

He glanced at the tiny screen and couldn't fully see the image. Still, he noticed it resembled him. Krasinski recalls thinking, "I don’t know if that’s fame or if that person’s going to kill me, but either way, I realized that person knows me and we’re strangers." This incident marked a definitive moment in his understanding of fame.

Earlier, SSP wrote that Timothee Chalamet said he was asked to gain weight for 2 roles.