The beloved educators of Abbott Elementary are back, and the upcoming school year promises to be their most chaotic yet. In the just-released trailer for Season 4, premiering on October 9, fans get a glimpse of the hilarity that awaits as the teachers navigate everything from classroom pets to a dreaded ringworm outbreak.
Quinta Brunson, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Tyler James Williams, Lisa Ann Walter, Chris Perfetti, Janelle James, and William Stanford Davis return as the teachers and staff of Abbott Elementary, and this season, they are facing more than just lesson plans. In true Abbott fashion, the struggles are all too real – and often comically exaggerated.
In the trailer, Principal Ava (James) pokes fun at her overworked staff, quipping, “We want books… we want paper towels… I bet y’all want raises too!” The trailer doesn’t just stop at witty banter, though. Viewers witness the teachers dealing with mischievous class pets and a school-wide ringworm scare, sending the entire building into germophobic hysteria. From Melissa’s (Walter) aversion to Jacob’s (Perfetti) infected classroom to Gregory (Tyler James Williams) furiously disinfecting his own, the teachers’ reactions range from humorous to full-blown panic.
But as always, Barbara (Ralph) is unflappable, choosing a low-maintenance fish for her class and calmly declaring, “We’re going to get along swimmingly.”
Beyond the laughs, there’s a deeper conversation about the underfunding of public schools. In a confessional, Janine (Brunson) laments the school’s inability to secure additional funding for after-school programs. Instead, they were given a mere $50 – for class pets. The line captures the show’s trademark ability to highlight real-world challenges faced by educators, while still keeping things light.
And it’s not just the teachers who are at their breaking point. Ava takes drastic measures by donning a full hazmat suit, while janitor Mr. Johnson (Davis) threatens to “beat down” poor Jacob over the outbreak.
With Season 4 set to premiere soon, fans can look forward to plenty more mishaps and mayhem as the staff of Abbott Elementary try to maintain their sanity in the face of mounting challenges. Between the ongoing ringworm crisis and an unwelcome visit from HR, there’s no telling what else is in store.
Additionally, the new season teases larger, more significant changes at Abbott. According to Quinta Brunson, there are evolving dynamics in the neighborhood that could impact the school. Fans are also eager to see the aftermath of Janine and Gregory’s surprising kiss from the Season 3 finale, though Brunson remains tight-lipped on whether the pair will finally become an official couple.
Beyond the laughs, there’s another reason for the Abbott Elementary cast to celebrate – significant salary increases. As the show gears up for its fourth season, stars like Brunson, Williams, Ralph, and others have negotiated hefty raises. According to industry insiders, Brunson will earn between $350,000 and $400,000 per episode, while her co-stars will bring in impressive sums as well.
This pay boost is a testament to the show’s success. With Abbott Elementary consistently earning top ratings and becoming a staple in the awards circuit, it’s clear the series is thriving, both in viewership and behind the scenes.
As Season 4 approaches, one thing is certain: Abbott Elementary is back, funnier and more chaotic than ever. Tune in October 9 to see how the teachers handle ringworm, HR, and possibly… raises!