RELATED:10 Of The Best Modern Period Comedy Series. Through it all, I have gotten to familiarize myself with the eclectic cast of characters, and I'm just itching to see how they stack up against each other. Barbara's status as a veteran teacher gave her the skills to navigate a broken education system flawlessly. Speaking of underestimating capabilities, Mr. Johnson (William Stanford Davis) is an absolute wild card. Characters Andy Bernard, Jacob Hill, and Toby Flenderson. Kicking this list off is Derek Collins, the oh-so-serious superintendent. 2. In the end, Ava remains Ava; she still hits on Gregory, continues to steal resources, and would still most certainly push a child out of the way to get through a fire exit first. 2023 Hearst Magazine Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved. We love the characters in CBSs Abbott Elementary because of their depth and complexity. There's someone walking Abbott's halls that gets exactly where you're coming from, and the stars can reveal who they are. Numerous series have emerged that give viewers characters that genuinely seem to want to make the world a better place and do everything in their power to stay positive. The small bits of personal information she does share are always so impressive and intimidating, it's probably best we're kept in the dark about her dealings. ; Cool Old Lady: Her age hasn't slowed her down one bit. RELATED:5 Ways Abbott Elementary Is Like The Office (& 5 Ways It's Unique). Janine Teagues, 2nd grade teacher. In the Season 2 episode Story Samurai, Jacob learns that a comedy troupe he used to be a part of is coming to Abbott, and despite everyone elses lack of enthusiasm about the news, Jacobs over the moon. That being said, theres no question that she is a dynamic presence in the show, and that she is also one of the series funniest characters. An absolute force of nature, every time Ava struts into the frame you know you're about to laugh. An aspiring rapper, he's a classic example of this sign's most positive qualities even if he is a bit of a fool. Gregory's quick, quiet punchlines have admittedly caused a spit take or two on my part. As one of the more intense signs of the zodiac, it's only right that Scorpio be represented by Melissa Schemmenti (Lisa Ann Walter), one of the most hardcore teachers at Abbott Elementary. NEXT:10 Shows Like Abbott Elementary & Where To Stream Them. She talks about a worst moment in her career. Among the many reasons the show is so well-received, Abbott Elementary boasts a lovable cast of characters. This sign is incredibly creative, often funneling their unique talents into the arts. Despite this methods questionable nature, it is successful, and Abbotts staff thank Ava for her contributions. The ABC series has earned a perfect score on Rotten Tomatoes, becoming one of the highest-rated television shows on the critic website. We also learn how despite Barbaras seeming infallibility, her husbands recent health scare has been on her mind lately and has caused her to lose focus. Though he only appears sporadically, Tariq is definitely one of those great characters. Ava, like so many born under this sign, is pretty sure it would be doing a great disservice to the world if she didn't put herself out there as boldly as possible. The shows reluctant hero, Gregory Eddie (Tyler James Williams), often finds himself in some of the shows more uncomfortable situations. Not only does she work relentlessly, she does so in an inspiringly creative manner, constantly coming up with innovative ways to overcome the many, many obstacles in her path. Those born under the sign of Aquarius are optimistic, forward-thinking people, always dreaming up new ways to improve the world and help the people in it. Nobody has ever not done their job as well as she does, and Abbott is better off for it. For Mr. Johnson, there's also the fact that there's just so much in need of fixing at Abbott, it's hard to really make a dent especially when the teachers are clueless about what they're asking him to do. But underneath it all, she does care about others, and knows how to get things done when they truly need doing. She puts her whole heart into her work, stopping at nothing to make sure her students get the resources, support, and education they deserve. Tariq doesn't do much more than act a fool, so his character is a direct foil to Janine. In reframing the archetype she embodies, the audience sees that a lady can be simultaneously vain and honorable a rare and beautiful balance. She has the perfect form of job security, and there's nothing this man can do about it. With such a varied portfolio of characters to root for, it's hard not to find someone you relate to. Though no one could blame her if she did lose a little pep in her step from time to time, she somehow refuses to let herself be turned into a cynic by the lackluster system she's constantly going up against. Poised, wise, and hard-working, Barbara has been a teacher at Abbott for over thirty years and is one of the most respected teachers among colleagues and students alike. Having seen James perform in packed theaters and near-empty bar shows, Ive seen her win over nearly every kind of audience firsthand. However, there's also a lot we don't know about her, as she tends to keep what goes on in her personal life under wraps. For me, Gregory Eddie's coolest element is that he takes the comedy archetype of the "straight man" to its utmost extremes. A public institution that educates a predominantly Black student population, Abbott doesn't get the money, support, or management it needs, which leaves the teachers and staff to fend for themselves. But while she might find her mother's worrying annoying, Taylor can take comfort in knowing that it comes from a place of love. I deeply appreciate the superintendent's potential to be an agent of chaos, but I think he still has some more surprises cooking. Thomas J. Some might call it narcissism, but Ava would call it self-love. Ava is a culmination of the philosophy James uses at the center of her stand-up: No one is just one thing. Sure he's a freeloader and a pretty bad boyfriend, but he makes up for every annoyance with his infectious energy and endlessly quotable lines. Clearly, despite his outward disinterested outward appearance he is very much invested in the success of the school and the students that are placed under his charge. When she speaks, every sentence ends in a period. While the show's writing and direction are both razor-sharp on their own, a series like this doesn't become as big as it has without a rock solid cast of characters. She's also quite two-faced, posing as an innocent child to further her mischievous plans. But the seamless comedic performance of this Philly archetype is admirable and excellent. Weedman makes the most of every appearance on the show. We see a strong example of this in the Season 1 episode Desking when Gregory confides in Mr. Johnson about his future. She's totally stubborn and stuck in her ways. She comes in says something annoying but it's so funny and by the time your done laughing she's heading out. Jacob might be a bit too desperate to be "with it," but nothing clouds his focus on being there for the kids, no matter what. When one audience member finally breaks into the albums loudest laugh, James riffs, Nobody ever talks about that shit, and it makes women feel alone! Interrupting Melissa's class multiple times and each time she keeps continuing despite being told to stop. As shown in the Season 1 episode titled Light Bulb, Janine goes out of her way to fix a faulty light bulb. While Virgo's strict, non-nonsense attitude is usually very productive, it can be a roadblock to getting Virgos to branch out and try new things. That's how powerful her presence is on screen. Based on this trait alone, it's safe to say that Mr. Johnson (William Stanford Davis) is a sturdy stand-in for these bull-headed members of the zodiac. Each character is hilarious and entertaining, but theyre also relatable and empathetic. His personality is also a bit of mystery: Sometimes he's eager to dispose of trash, but sometimes he's extremely reluctant to roll up his sleeves. The realities of the public school system can be dark, but James pulls off jokes on topics such as the school-to-prison pipeline and limited resources. Thanks to her, I've pointed my finger at the screen howling in laughter on more than one occasion. In letting him go, Janine lets a piece of herself go too. Well, except remarry, which isexactly what Collins conveniently happens to do. This is yet another by-product of their innate stubbornness: They always feel like they know what's best, and have trouble taking orders from others. The Quinta Brunson-created ABC comedy . This character is the reigning queen of Abbott Elementary, and it's a cardinal sin to believe otherwise. Roy was a terrible partner to Pam for way too many years. As we see in Season 1's "Student Transfer," Courtney isn'table to fool everyone. While he can at times be a bit overenthusiastic in his efforts to connect with his students, it's clear that he does genuinely care about their well-being and wants to give them the best education that he possibly can. Does she take the clue to back away? There is no concern for how the material might be understood by white audiences. She's always just the right amount of annoying. She can generate laughs with anything, from her dazzlingly bright smile to her righteous fury when it's time to put her foot down. She makes Coleman the ringmaster, the jester, and the villain all at once. In the short time since her arrival, Ashley has been a minor whirlwind of chaos. No explanation is needed, then, for why this sign goes to Abbott's number-one teacher, Janine Teagues (Quinta Brunson). Its also rarely as simple as one character being only good or evil. Tariq is the type of guy you'd think is the coolest person ever if you weren't old enough to know any better, and that's exactly what makes him so great. Mr. Johnson is the type of character who tells you he was a nude model in a past life but then never mentions it again. Though she can be prickly, she still shows that she has the type of emotional intelligence that allows her to be a good friend, even if she sometimes loses patience with people like Janine who assume that they know everything about teaching. The year prior, Mirman announced he was passing the festival on to James. Every Main Character In Abbott Elementary, Ranked. My only complaint is that I want her to appear more often. The Leo in Ava shines most brightly in her role as principal. Production Safety / production safety (22 episodes, 2022-2023) Marcy Brooks. Ava isn't always the most selfless educator (or person in general), often opting for the path of least resistance and most personal gain. Abbott Elementary Season-Finale Recap: Selfish Era Janine and Gregory's romance gets "To Be Continued" until next season. A Look at the 'Abbott Elementary' Creator's Love Life, Everyone's New Favorite Show 'Abbott Elementary' Is Taking a Three-Week Hiatus, The 'Office Ladies' Podcast Is Here and It's Everything You Hoped It Would Be. Between her fascination with Gregory and her disdain for Janine, Ava has jokes for everyone and everything around her. Here's why we love the characters in this ABC sitcom. As seen in subsequent episodes, Melissas demeanor improved after she and Gary started a relationship, and her colleagues and audiences were proud of her growth. She cares a lot about her students, and because theyre such a priority to her, she goes above and beyond. His writing on film, TV, and popular culture has appeared in Screenology, FanFare, Primetimer, Cinemania, and in a number of scholarly journals and edited collections. Here, Brunson previews the first season of "Abbott Elementary," including how she developed her mockumentary style, finding her own character's voice and how hard she's leaning into a will . While a charitable mindset is definitely one of this sign's strengths, it can also be one of their weaknesses. Meet the cast and hosts of Abbott Elementary, read their bios, top moments, and view their photos, videos and more at ABC.com It has failed in every single regard.The comedy is awful and not funny.It just name drops things like NFTS and cryptocurrency and uses "modern" slang like "L" and "Roasting" to try to seem hip and cool.It is very lazy humor.It is unrealistic of a school setting.A lot of the time it feels like the teachers never teach and have so . Zach's (Larry Owens) introduction occurs during the iconic "Desking" episode from Season 1. Thank god Jacob has someone to balance him out, though who knows what he would be like without Zach's grounding influence? Next up is Janine's ex-boyfriend, Tariq (Zack Fox). Ava's viral TikTok career and desire to hang out with anyone she thinks is cool" at the moment gives off total Kelly vibes. "Abbott Elementary" garnered a lot of comparisons to "The Office" and "Parks and Recreation" when it debuted in 2021, and for a good reason. Most of her jokes have devastating implications, and I cannot resist a chuckle if I tried to. In addition to getting things done, Capricorns love structure and consistency not just in their career, but in relationships as well. Jacob Hill is a young, awkward sixth-grade history teacher at Abbott Elementary, and is played by Chris Perfetti. Abbott Elementary is about a group of teachers struggling to steer their students in the right direction while dealing with a major lack of funding, a principal who couldn't care less, and frustrations over the school system being so poorly managed. Like Melissa's (Lisa Ann Walter) coworkers, I'm just as desperate to see her more often in "Abbott Elementary." Slowly but surely, however, he demonstrates that he has a great deal of intelligence, at least when it comes to his intellect (he can be a bit emotionally unaware of anything thats going on around him). While the timing couldnt have been worse, to run a festival with Covid-19, the festivals hiatus and quarantine gave her time to give Abbott Elementary a shot. And when he's reluctant, he can't be moved. In any Abbott Elementary episode, there is always a point where Janine has to choose between the sensible option of backing away from a situation or getting further involved. Abbott Elementary: Created by Quinta Brunson. Often finding herself at odds with Barbara for her unorthodox methods of raising funds for the school, it is noteworthy just how effective her tactics have proven to be anytime the school faces a financial crisis. Creed Bratton on The Office was known to play hooky from work every now and then. When it's Ava's turn to present Abbott's progress to the school board, his new marriage status causes a scramble to save Ava's job and secure much-needed funding for the school. No matter the time or place, she's always supercharged with energy and more than willing to unleash it all on Melissa. Chicago native and comedian Brittani Nichols is a writer and producer "Abbott Elementary.". His writing on film, TV, and popular culture has appeared in Screenology, FanFare, Primetimer, Cinemania, and in a number of scholarly journals and edited collections. Played by Zack Fox, Tariq Temple is the former boyfriend of Janine Teagues and an aspiring anti-drug rap artist. These traits come through in Zach's upbeat and humorous personality, which is a sharp contrast to the stressful and chaotic energy looming over Abbott. However, I think more can be done with Zack's character on the series. His role at Abbott distinguishes him from the rest of the crew: He's an onlooker to the events of the classroom and a contributor to the logistical chaos of running an underfunded school. Ever since Abbott Elementary made its debut in 2021, audiences haven't been able to get enough of the fictional school and the exploits of its infinitely quirky staff and students. However, Melissa learns it's helpful in the classroom as she can grab the kids' attention. After confessing this to Barbara, she was encouraged to go on a first date with Gary considering he was a sincere gentleman. Ashley is persistently annoying. Even before it debuted, an early pilot of Parks and Recreation highlighted audiences issues with seeing anything akin to a female Michael Scott, particularly when it came to public-service jobs. She's plucky . Melissa's strength and skill make her a classic Scorpio. In this case, she has poured her life and energy into the school, and she is always willing to go the extra mile for any student that needs it, to such an extent that she sometimes forgets that her own needs are important, too. In Thirties, she talks about being a lifelong pervert, starting from when she discovered the joy of masturbation at a young age. Her delivery can convince you to laugh at nearly any idea, no matter how strange or off-putting. Abbotts character development is well executed and makes some of its more unfavorable characters (were looking at you, Ava) grow and become somewhat likable over time. Kristen Marie (Lauren Weedman) is a powerhouse of a character. Theres also the sense that she knows its ridiculous that a Black woman would need that ability to be herself at work, on stage, or anywhere else. Melissa Schemmenti (Lisa Ann Walter) is known among colleagues and students for her no-nonsense attitude, straightforward teaching style, and crass humor. The Eugene Mirman Comedy Festival was as much for fans as it was a celebration of people who just love making people laugh. What's even funnier is how her rapport with Barbara involves a mutual understanding of these traits. When Libras make missteps like this, it's because they have a particular vision. RELATED: 'Don't Compare Gregory and Janine to Jim and Pam'. At first, I thought Gregory's damage stemmed from Ava having the job he was supposed to have. Abbott Elementary is one of those series that goes out of its way to remind people of the good in the world. Unlike some of the others, she has a rather acerbic manner, and she has a tendency to want her students to inhabit the world as it is, rather than as she would like it to be. Copyright 2023 Distractify. This should come as no surprise, as Leos are adept at romance and enjoy flaunting their gifts. Before Darryl Philbin received a promotion to start working upstairs on The Office, he was in charge of things downstairs in the warehouse. He did a lot of laborious work, but always had funny jokes to tell along the way. Read on to find out. Thankfully for those who have come to know and love this character, Gregory opts to accept a temporary (and eventually permanent) teaching position instead. She loves the kids. Gregorys character is exemplified further in the episode Ava vs. However, in the Season 2 episode Fire, Barbara nearly accidentally burns the school down while everyone is away during recess. . Every good sitcom needs a Mr. Johnson, but there's only one Mr. Johnson. Melissa Schemmenti of Abbott Elementary is similar to Meredith Palmer of The Office because they are both redheads who know a thing or two about breaking the rules. Taylor Henderson cornbreadsays February 16 2022 4:25. With Season 2 nearly completed and Season 3 already in the pipeline, were looking forward to seeing the new shenanigans our favorite educational staff experiences next. On multiple occasions, Principal Coleman misappropriates the schools funds, minimizes her part in any shortcomings the school experiences, harasses Gregory, and bullies her teachers (especially Janine). Additionally, Jacob often tries to connect with Janine and especially Gregory during their lunch breaks, but it usually turns out awkward and unintentionally hilarious. However, she then glances at the camera and clumsily stutters a bogus cover story. As an avid fan of "Abbott Elementary," I can't help but find unbridled joy in every quirky character interaction. Knowing this is this sign's greatest character strength. Jacob has the unfortunate task of being the punching bag for all the other characters at any given time. At the same time, she repeatedly shows that she is very intelligent and that she knows what it takes to be a good and effective teacher. What else has strong structure and consistency? Well-written and well-acted, each member of Abbotts faculty stands out in their unique way, and many, if not all of us, have had at least one teacher or faculty member similar to the characters in the CBS comedy. Reddit, Inc. 2023. When he first begins at Abbott Elementary, Gregory makes it clear that he views it as a strictly temporary position. Toby Flenderson was Michael Scotts punching bag on The Office, and a lot of the characters in Abbott Elementary tend to treat Jacob that way too. ABC/Gilles Mingasson By Brittany Delay / Oct. 29, 2022 1:00 pm EST Must-watch mockumentary sitcom "Abbott Elementary" has been drawing audiences in droves since its debut in December 2021.. The various characters that appear in the series all have their own unique charms, though only a few can truly be said to deserve the title of best character. Malcolm isnt the only great student to appear, and hes also not the only intelligent one. Now, we arrive at the first character of the main cast on this list. Mr. Johnson often plays a peripheral role in the show, only appearing in the series here and there. Its this trait that James brings to life in Ava, giving the character range and a sense of depth that opens Abbott Elementary to new forms of storytelling. Episode nine, Step Class, shows Ava dealing with the difficulty of an ailing relative. Janine is part of what makes this series such a feel-good sitcom. In fact, they sometimes dont even let him finish his sentences. Whether she's cracking bad puns or scaring herself by climbing ladders, Janine encapsulates everything that makes the show work. Their symbol is the water bearer, which represents their giving and selfless nature. Barbara definitely shares this hesitance to change: She always opts to play things old school. We're glad Janine broke up with Tariq, but we also can't help but admire his optimism and zeal. Honestly, he's almost too kind, to the point that he occasionally annoys his friends and co-workers. As the season progressed, the character became more like Ron Swanson, with Coleman taking on responsibility. She actually taught the charter school leader Draemond (Leslie Odom Jr.), who returns in this episode to further stake his claim at Abbott. This compassionate attitude always puts him on the right path, even if it takes a while. Oh, and she has a secret fully furnished private bathroom with a marble toilet hidden in the basement of Abbott Elementary. Offers may be subject to change without notice. Barbara is another of the great teachers that have found a home at Abbott Elementary. Quinta Brunsons Primetime Emmy-winning mockumentary sitcom Abbott Elementary took audiences by storm when it premiered on December 7, 2021, mainly due to its quirky humor and unique premise. NEXT:10 Most Magical Feel-Good Moments In '90s Sitcoms. He may not be able to read a room, but that's precisely why we can't get enough of this former story samurai. Whats more, despite his rather cynical attitude, he does seem genuinely good at his job and to take pride in the work that he performs keeping the school (relatively) clean. She read as a self-centered older lady who is desperate to retain youthful relevance. But before you come down too hard on Courtney, remember this: Geminis are incredibly intelligent, and therefore tend to get bored very easily. They don't call him "Mr. C" for no reason, with a very particular brand of cringe humor that works so perfectly in every situation he inserts himself in. Played by Reginald C. Hayes, he arrives in the show firmly underneath the blackmailing thumb of Abbott Elementary. TV Features 'Abbott Elementary' Cast and Character Guide: Who's Playing Who in the Hit Sitcom By Dyah Larasati Published May 2, 2022 Get to know the talented cast behind Abbott. Jacob Hill from Abbott Elementary is especially comparable to a character like Andy Bernard from The Office, since he has an optimistic approach that tends to be overshadowed by his quirky and dorky tendencies. The mark of a successful sitcom is its ability to craft strong supporting characters. .css-o05pt{display:block;font-family:Didot,Didot-fallback,Georgia,Times,serif;font-weight:normal;letter-spacing:0rem;margin-bottom:0;margin-top:0;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;text-shadow:0 0 0 #000,0 0 0.01em transparent;}@media (any-hover: hover){.css-o05pt:hover{color:link-hover;}}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-o05pt{font-size:1.18581rem;line-height:1.2;margin-bottom:0.25rem;margin-top:0.625rem;}}@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-o05pt{line-height:1.2;}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.css-o05pt{font-size:1.23488rem;line-height:1.2;margin-bottom:0.5rem;margin-top:0rem;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-o05pt{font-size:1.39461rem;line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.9375rem;}}The 35 Best Shows on Hulu, Ashley Park Joins 'Only Murders in the Building', Grace Van Patten on Toxic Love in 'Tell Me Lies', The Ultimate 'Handmaid's Tale' Glossary for S5, Abbott Elementary Season 2 Is Coming Soon, Consider 'Tell Me Lies' Your Next Sexy Binge Watch, 'Atlanta' Season 4 Premieres In September. Yes, he may be ridiculed endlessly. At the end of the day, they just want to bring out the best in everything even if they don't always know how. Whats more, he often goes the extra mile when it comes to his endeavors, such as when he began a vegetable garden in order to give the students more nutritious lunches. ABC Kicking this list off is Derek Collins, the oh-so-serious superintendent. As seen throughout the show, Abbott constantly faces the threat of being turned into a charter school. While his lyrics may not be for everyone (Sagittarians are known to be a bit too honest at times, and Tariq does spit truth) and he hasn't yet made it to the big leagues, Tariq is making progress in his musical career. He co-hosts the Queens of the B's podcast with Mark Muster and writes a regular newsletter, Omnivorous, on Substack. Zach was introduced in Abbott Elementary as Jacob Hill's supportive boyfriend and is played by Larry Owens. Once there, she instantly takes over the classroom without a second hesitation, introducing herself as Janine Teagues. Now, it's clear Gregory has many specific and unusual traumas that I, as a viewer, have no idea how to navigate like this man uses a stopwatch to time himself when he goes on bathroom breaks. She also shows that she truly loves her husband and values the relationship that they have. Wise and loving yet silly and mischievous, Barbara is a lovable and hilarious contradiction. Ava Coleman (Janelle James) is the poster child for confident, attention-drawing Leos everywhere. He singlehandedly ended the nationally viral trend of students sneakily leaping on top of desks. Even if that wasnt the shows intent, it was still a characteristic used in bad faith against the show. Expand. Still . I'm a sucker for unpredictability, and this man's full of surprises! Gene, however, is a character who has to thrive on being both thoroughly annoying and hilarious. In true Libra fashion, Sahar is also passionate about peace, justice, and societal harmony. If anyone could bring to life a Black female character in prime time who needed to be both a villain and likable, James was always the person who could pull it off. His unyielding discipline only seems to get funnier the more it's challenged by the surrounding madness, and his looks to the camera are second to absolutely no one. He co-hosts the Queens of the B's podcast with Mark Muster and writes a regular newsletter, Omnivorous, on Substack. Scan this QR code to download the app now. We see it play out hysterically in instances where Melissa begins to describe a personal story. Janine needed to be with Tariq to learn to be without him. They go big, or they go home and they usually don't go home. The award-winning series Abbott Elementary follows the exploits of the staff of an underfunded elementary school, and the seven main characters are compelling because they are so different, each fitting a different MBTI type. Ashley Garcia was hired by principal Ava Coleman as Melissa's aide and is played by Keyla Monterroso Mejia. There's a stubborn little imp underneath that amiable smile. Helmed by Quinta Brunson and some of the minds behind Parks and Recreation and The Office, Abbott Elementary has already found itself being compared to the two popular, long-running programs. 10 Best Sitcom Episodes, According To Reddit, ABC series is a great comedy set in a school, 10 Of The Best Modern Period Comedy Series, great TV teachers, and Barbara is one of those, 10 Most Magical Feel-Good Moments In '90s Sitcoms, The Big Bang Theory Contradicts Young Sheldons Germany Storyline, Futurama Season 11s New Fry & Leela Change Finally Ends Original 14-Year Subplot, Why MASH Couldn't Use Its Original Theme (& What The Song Actually Meant).
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