B.J. Novak is an American actor, comedian, and screenwriter. He appeared in the films Saving Mr. Banks with Tom Hanks, The Founder, and Vengeance with Ashton Kutcher. In 2001, Novak relocated from Boston to Los Angeles to commence his career as a comedian and comedy writer. He performed his first live stand-up gig at the Hollywood Youth Hostel that year before becoming known for his Ryan Howard role on The Office.