Around 2002, Rashida Jones was in the early stages of her acting career. She had recently graduated from Harvard University, where she studied religion and philosophy, and was beginning to land roles in television and film. During this time, she appeared in guest roles on shows like Boston Public and had a small part in the film Full Frontal (2002), directed by Steven Soderbergh.

Though she had not yet achieved mainstream fame, this period marked her gradual entry into Hollywood. Her breakout would come a few years later with her role as Karen Filippelli on The Office and later as Ann Perkins on Parks and Recreation.