Abbott Elementary is a local landmark in an exclusive clip from Sunday's post-Oscars episode
Here's a first look at Abbott Elementary's new episode airing in the coveted post-Oscars time slot on March 10
If anyone needs more proof ABC is betting heavily on Abbott Elementary after its massive viewership numbers and awards, well, here you have it. The network is giving its funniest ongoing sitcom the coveted post-Oscars slot for its next episode. Season three’s seventh episode didn’t air at its usual Wednesday night spot this week. Instead, it’ll drop on ABC after the 96th Academy Awards wrap up on March 10. Clearly, the network is confident in Abbott’s ability to retain the Oscars audience, and it’s easy to see why based on the two-minute clip alone.
As seen in The A.V. Club exclusive footage, “Willard R. Abbott” marks a huge day for the staff of the titular Philadelphia public school. Janine Teagues (Quinta Brunson), who is doing a fellowship at the school district, arrives to break some important news. And, folks, she’s not alone. June Diane Raphael thankfully returns after appearing in season two as Elizabeth Washington from the city’s Board of Education. (Yes, there’s some mild flirting with Gregory, who in turn calls Elizabeth his literal “sleep paralysis demon.”)
Janine and Elizabeth tell the rest of them that Abbott Elementary has been designated as a historical landmark. It’s kind of a crazy update, and we can’t wait to see the episode explain how it happened, but it’s enough to see Ava (Janelle James) do a happy dance and pull off a “ka-ching.” As Principal, she knows this means the school will hopefully get more funds.
There’s also chatter about the Rocky steps, and Melissa’s (Lisa Ann Walter) aunt’s pastrami shop, and we didn’t miss Gregory perking up when he realizes Janine is about to enter the room, either. (Reminder: they’re lowkey the best slow-burn romance on TV right now). The episode will feature the school celebrating the landmark news, even if not everyone is equally happy about it.
Abbott Elementary also co-stars Chris Perfetti, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Tyler James Williams, and William Stanford Davis. Season three also features appearances from Josh Segarra, Benjamin Norris, and Kimia Behpoornia. Naturally, we’re also hoping Ayo Edebiri and Taraji P. Williams return at some point as Janine’s sister and mother, respectively.
Season three will consist of 14 episodes as opposed to the usual 22 because production was delayed due to the strikes. The finale airs in May, but on the plus side, the comedy has already been renewed for season four. Obviously.
“Willard R. Abbott” will air on March 10 at 10:30 p.m. ET on ABC. You can also watch past Abbot Elementary episodes on Hulu.