The beloved cast of ABC’s Abbott Elementary is reaping the rewards of their success, with significant salary bumps as the show heads into its fourth season. Known for its stellar ensemble, the award-winning comedy series has quickly become one of the strongest forces on television.
And now, Quinta Brunson, the series creator and star, along with Tyler James Williams, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Janelle James, Chris Perfetti, and Lisa Ann Walter, have all renegotiated their contracts with Warner Bros. Television, securing impressive salary increases. According to insiders, these raises are no small change — some are doubling or even tripling what they earned in previous seasons.
Brunson, who also serves as an executive producer under her overall deal with Warner Bros., is set to make $350,000-$400,000 per episode as she returns as the lovable and idealistic teacher, Janine Teagues. Williams, who won a Golden Globe for his role as Gregory Eddie, and Ralph, who nabbed an Emmy for her portrayal of Barbara Howard, are reportedly bringing in $250,000 per episode. Meanwhile, Janelle James (Ava Coleman), Lisa Ann Walter (Melissa Schemmenti), and Chris Perfetti (Jacob Hill) are each earning around $200,000 per episode.
These raises reportedly represent triple-digit percentage increases from previous salaries, marking a clear acknowledgment of Abbott Elementary’s growing popularity and success. William Stanford Davis, who plays the quirky janitor Mr. Johnson, also received a salary boost, now earning $100,000 per episode after being promoted to series regular in Season 2.
The raises reflect the show’s standout success. With Abbott Elementary becoming one of ABC’s most popular series — and a consistent presence in the awards conversation, winning multiple Emmys and Golden Globes — these pay bumps are a clear recognition of the cast’s pivotal role in the show’s triumph.
Abbott Elementary isn’t just a fan favorite; it’s become a flagship show for ABC. The network renewed the series early for a fourth season back in February 2023, following a record-breaking Season 3 premiere, which pulled in 5.91 million viewers across platforms. The show’s second season averaged the highest ratings for an ABC comedy in nearly three years. Additionally, Abbott Elementary has been a consistent presence in major awards shows, earning multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations and wins for stars Brunson, Williams, Ralph, and James.
As Abbott Elementary gears up for its fourth season, premiering on October 9, it’s safe to say that not only is the series at the head of the class, but its cast is getting paid like it.