Abbott Elementary is one of the hottest shows on television right now. Created by Quinta Brunson, the show has won three Golden Globes, four Emmy awards, and it has already been renewed for a fourth season. Brunson’s mother was a teacher in her hometown of Philadelphia for forty years, which inspired her to create the show. This love and appreciation for teaching is truly the driving force behind the show that makes it so great. Although the show has so many great moments, spoilers will be kept to a minimum.
Abbott Elementary is a mockumentary-style sitcom set in a Philadelphia public school. It centers around an eccentric, predominately Black ensemble cast: ultra-positive Janine Teagues (Quinta Brunson), socially awkward but well-meaning Gregory Eddie (Tyler James Williams), wise Barbara Barbra Howard (Sheryl Lee Ralph), Philidelphia native Melissa Schemmenti (Lisa Ann Ralph), history nerd Jacob Hill (Chris Perfetti), chaotic principal Ava Coleman (Janelle James), and zany janitor Mr. Johnson (William Stanford Davis).
Every single member of the main cast is lovable in their own way. From Janine’s unwavering enthusiasm to Gregory’s awkwardness (and iconic side-eyes) to Mr. Johnson’s antics, there is truly a character for everyone. You cheer when they succeed and cry when they fail. The show is insanely quotable, with both hilarious one-liners like “This man is playing the PowerBall with our kids!” and gut-wrenching statements that really stick with you, like “You can’t choose when people acknowledge you.”
From a writer’s perspective, the show is incredibly well-written. Besides the countless iconic one-liners, both the main and sub-plots in each episode are incredibly well written. You can’t think of the plot of an episode without thinking about what’s happening in the background. The show also uses jokes to introduce relevant information, like Gregory’s landscaping background, Janine’s relationship with her mom, and how Principal Ava really got her job.
The show is truly a masterpiece on every level. It’s funny, it’s heartwarming, and worth every ounce of praise it has received.
You can watch Abbott Elementary on Hulu, HBO Max, or on ABC’s website.
