Now in its fifth season, Abbott Elementary continues to cement itself as one of the best shows on television. Created, executive produced, co-written, and led by Quinta Brunson, the ABC comedy follows a group of teachers doing their best to educate students in an underfunded Philadelphia public school.
A West Philadelphia native, Brunson graduated from the Charter High School for Architecture & Design before attending Temple University. Although she left before graduating to pursue acting, Temple later awarded her an honorary degree during its 2024 Commencement, where she delivered the keynote address to the graduating class. In an interview on Good Morning America, Brunson shared that her mother’s forty-year career as a teacher inspired the series, and that she named Abbott Elementary after her own sixth-grade teacher, Ms. Abbott. Brunson’s Philadelphia upbringing and family ties to education give the show its authentic voice and emotional warmth.
The premise is simple yet authentic and full of heart. Abbott Elementary follows the dedicated and often under-resourced teachers of a fictional public school in Philadelphia. Led by the optimistic second-grade teacher Janine Teagues (Brunson), the group includes Barbara Howard (Sheryl Lee Ralph), a steadfast kindergarten teacher with nearly three decades of classroom experience, and Melissa Schemmenti (Lisa Ann Walter), a sharp-tongued, strong-willed teacher and die-hard Philadelphia sports fan. Also part of the faculty is Gregory Eddie (Tyler James Williams), best known for his breakout role as young Chris Rock in Everybody Hates Chris, a by-the-book substitute-turned-full-time teacher from Baltimore who often serves as Janine’s moral, and later romantic, partner. The school’s well-meaning, big-hearted, and at times unpredictable principal Ava Coleman (Janelle James) drives much of the show’s humorous interplay, while Jacob Hill (Chris Perfetti) adds heart and awkward sincerity as the overly eager history teacher. Rounding out the cast is Mr. Johnson (William Stanford Davis), the quick-witted janitor whose dry humor and wisdom make him an audience favorite.
Together, the cast captures the energy, humor, and heart of everyday life in America’s public schools, balancing sharp comedy with heartfelt storytelling that resonates with viewers of all ages.
The series premiered on December 7, 2021, to strong viewership and immediate critical acclaim, and it hasn’t looked back since. Since its debut, Abbott Elementary has become one of television’s most celebrated comedies, earning dozens of Emmy nominations and several major wins, including Outstanding Lead Actress (Brunson), Outstanding Supporting Actress (Ralph), and Outstanding Casting for a Comedy Series. In addition, Abbott Elementary has claimed Golden Globe Awards for Best Television Series – Musical or Comedy, with acting honors for Brunson and Williams, further cementing its reputation for excellence. Beyond those accolades, the series has been recognized by the NAACP Image Awards, Critics’ Choice Awards, and Television Critics Association Awards.
The current season, which launched on October 1, 2025, features 22 episodes airing Wednesdays at 8:30 p.m. ET on ABC. While a sixth season has not yet been confirmed, anticipation remains high.
As the series continues to evolve, it reminds audiences that even in an underfunded system, laughter, community, and compassion can thrive. Brunson’s creation stands as both a love letter to educators and a testament to the everyday mentors shaping the next generation.
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