The Parks Department of PawneeLists about Parks and Recreation, NBC's hit comedy series about perky mid-level bureaucrat Leslie Knope and her zany, lovable co-workers, which ran from 2009 to 2015.
It probably no surprise that a show starring Amy Poehler and created by the guys from TheOffice was chock full of hilarious guest stars. But beyond the great comedians who popped up on Parks and Rec were plenty of other famous faces you probably didn't expect.
Leslie Knope's relentless devotion to government allowed for the writers to fit in some cameos from heavy hitters in the political world. From Michelle Obama to John McCain, Leslie was lucky enough to rub elbows with some of Washington's elite. And that's when she wasn't going on dates with Justin Theroux (AKA Justin Anderson) or taking in a concert by (Donna's cousin) Ginuwine.
The best Parks and Recreation guest stars contributed to some of the most memorable episodes of the show. These are the guest appearances by beloved actors, musicians, and politicians that you probably forgot about. Which famous people on Parks & Recreation were your favorite?
Episode: Season 5, Episode 21: "Moving Up" Role: Herself
Michelle Obama was the keynote speaker at "National Parks Conference," where she happened to run into Leslie and recruit her for the White House's "Let's Move" campaign. Of course, maintaining composure during the conversation was tough for Leslie, who idolized FLOTUS for her intelligence and political savvy.
Episodes:Season 6, Episode 22: "Moving Up"; Season 7, Episode 1: "2017" Role: Ed
And you thought Jerry was bad at his job! Hamm made a brief appearance a couple times, playing a super incompetent employee of the National Parks Department. In the series finale, Leslie finally fires him.
Episode: Season 2, Episode 13: "The Set Up" Role: Justin Anderson
Justin Anderson is a lawyer friend of Ann's. Ann sets him up with Leslie, and the two date briefly for a few episodes, before she eventually dumps him. It doesn't help that he and Tom get along so well.
Episode: Season 6, Episode 1: "London: Part 1" Role: Ulee Danssen
In season six, Leslie and the gang travel to the UK so that Leslie can accept an award for great women in local government. While she's there, she meets Ulee, the mayor of a town in Denmark. Ulee explains how much her town adores her, which makes Leslie feel terrible about the way Pawnee feels about her.
Episode: Season 6, Episode 22: "Moving Up: Part 2" Role: Himself
Donna often touted the fact that she was related to Ginuwine, after the gang saw a picture of her with the singer at her cabin. Later, he shows up to play tribute to Lil' Sebastian (the town's beloved mini horse) with his hit song, "Pony."
Episode: Season 5, Episode 7: "Leslie vs. April" Role: Himself
Biden made a brief appearance when Leslie made a trip to Washington, and had a quick meet and greet with her. Of course, Leslie could barely keep it together as she met the sitting VP.
