Class is back in session.
The premiere of Season 4 of Abbott Elementary picks up shortly after the end of Season 3, which concluded with Janine (Quinta Brunson) and Gregory (Tyler James Williams) finally connecting at her end-of-year party. With their feelings acknowledged, the series gains a fresh energy that sets a more optimistic tone for the new season.
In this opening episode titled “Back to School,” Janine reintegrates into life at Abbott while the construction of a new golf course in West Philly looms over the staff, bringing concerns about gentrification. The storyline comes at a time when gentrification in West Philly is a real-life concern to residents, as Drexel University and the University of Pennsylvania continue to invade the community and displace Black and brown residents, reducing the amount of green space, diminishing vegetation, and increasing urban island heat effects.
In the series, this gentrification manifests as the PGA course, which causes noise, traffic congestion, and reduced water pressure, adversely affecting the school environment. In signature Abbott fashion, the show subtly educates viewers on pressing issues that impact educators, as well as Black and brown communities in West Philadelphia, all while maintaining a light-hearted tone. In one particularly amusing moment, Ava (Janelle James) mistakenly identifies Abbott’s first white student as a Victorian-era ghost, cleverly introducing the tangible effects of gentrification in a subtle yet absurdist manner.
As Janine and Gregory navigate their new romantic relationship, they attempt to keep their connection under wraps, though their efforts prove ineffective. The other teachers grow increasingly exasperated with their attempts at secrecy, especially with the presence of the delightfully sardonic district HR representative, Warren (Ben Onyx Dowdy), visiting Abbott for the day. After three seasons of tantalizing will-they-won’t-they-tension, it’s a refreshing shift to see Janine and Gregory together from the outset, allowing their dynamic to deepen and evolve in intriguing new ways.
The ensemble cast continues to excel, delivering many strong performances. Brunson, who has already won an Emmy for her role, adeptly balances Janine’s signature empathy with the evolving dynamics and absurdities of the workplace. As she navigates these new challenges, Janine embodies a pathos that reflects her growth as an educator. Notably, her relationship with Principal Ava (Janelle James) has shifted from antagonism to a more cooperative and supportive dynamic, signaling a significant transformation for a character who once reveled in Janine’s misfortunes. This genuine connection and character development is a hallmark of a sitcom that has been given the time and support necessary for its characters to grow and evolve over the seasons.
Meanwhile, Barbara (Sheryl Lee Ralph) remains a delightful standout, particularly as she confronts the challenges of the emerging golf course. With lines like, “We got a white child now. You wanna get his parents involved?” she confidently stands up to a representative of the PGA course, solidifying her fancam-worthy status. Similarly, William Stanford Davis’s unpredictable Mr. Johnson continues to elicit unexpected laughs from stories of his surprisingly seasoned past. The ensemble continues to expand as well, with Shanae, the lunch lady (Nikea Gamby-Turner), gaining more screen time this season and establishing herself as both an amusing and integral presence in the show. As Ava softens in her interactions with Janine, Warren steps in as a new source of opposition, effectively replacing the previously antagonistic dynamic that once characterized Ava’s role. (Ben Onyx Dowdy’s pronunciation of “district diva” is particularly delightful.)
Abbott’s writing remains as sharp as ever, seamlessly blending laugh-out-loud moments with earnest and heartfelt interactions. With a season-long arc focused on gentrification, the series promises to deliver fresh narratives while preserving its charm. Fans can look forward to memorable storylines and new dynamics, including a highly anticipated crossover with FXX’s It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia. (Which Paste successfully predicted last year!)
Overall, the Season 4 premiere proves Abbott Elementary to be as funny and feel-good as ever, cementing its place at the top of sitcoms, and indeed–all, currently airing shows, regardless of genre. As the characters continue to evolve and navigate new experiences and dynamics, Abbott becomes an increasingly rewarding viewing experience for viewers who have followed its journey over the past three years, making it a joy to attend class each week.
New episodes of Abbott Elementary air Wednesdays on ABC at 9:30 p.m. EST/8:30 p.m.CST.
Joshua Harris (he/him) is a lover of television, independent film, and his two dogs. His work has appeared in Awards Radar, mxdwnTELEVISION, and more. He is an African-American Film Critics Association (AAFCA) member.
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