It’s never too early to start thinking about the best of senior yearbook entries, even if classes have just begun. In a new behind-the-scenes video, the cast of ABC’s Abbott Elementary, a comedy series that won an Emmy, appears to be doing just that. As the film progresses, the Abbott Elementary School faculty confers to decide which of their co-stars deserves each award. There are times when you need a quick response. Principal Ava Coleman is brought to life by Janelle James (Tyler James Williams), whose character is the class clown.
Emmy winner Sheryl Lee Ralph, who plays kindergarten teacher Barbara Howard, has called her co-star and series creator Quinta Brunson “teacher’s pet,” and both William Stanford Davis and Lisa Ann Walter have lauded her for the compassion she brings to set. The whole group gushed over Ralph, affectionately dubbing her “Ms Popularity.” Working with her was a joy for her co-star Chris Perfetti, who portrays history instructor Jacob Hill, while co-star Brunson praised her “diva energy,” adding it was the kind of vibe that “makes you better” to be around.
Ralph gave an emotional acceptance speech when she won the Emmy for Supporting Actress in a Comedy series earlier this year, making history as only the second Black woman to do so and the first in 35 years. On television’s greatest night, Abbott Elementary brought home more than just one award—Emmy Ralph’s was only one of several. Moreover, Brunson won the award for best writing in a comedy series. The multitalented actor and creator, who also plays the role of second-grade teacher Janine Teagues, joined Lena Waithe, who won Master of None in 2017, as the only Black woman to win in their category.
As a mockumentary in the tradition of Parks and Recreation, Abbott Elementary follows the employees at the eponymous Philadelphia public school. Like that show, the primary characters at Abbott Elementary often disagree on the best way to handle a situation involving their pupils, but they always, thankfully, have each other’s best interests at heart. The show’s success and Emmy awards demonstrate that quality content will always triumph in the streaming era. Abbott Elementary Season 2 airs Wednesdays on ABC, with Season 1 available to stream on Hulu now.