BBC Probes German "Copy" of Hit TV Show

The BBC has started investigating the German sitcom "Stromberg" for its similarities to the British broadcaster's award-winning show "The Office." The corporation's Web site reported that the BBC was looking into possible copyright violations. The main character in the German show, which premiered two weeks ago on the private ProSieben channel, is Bernd Stromberg, an insurance company boss, who tries to ingratiate himself with his employees, similarly to David Brent, a manager in a paper supply company in "The Office." Stromberg's disdainful colleagues are also said to resemble characters in the BBC hit. ProSieben has denied that it copied the two-time Golden Globe winner.