School is back in session for Abbott Elementary as ABC has released the trailer for the hit comedy’s fourth season. The Emmy-winning show returns on Oct. 9, and the new teaser promises more laughs, chaotic moments, and a few surprises.
Principal Ava Coleman (Janelle James) is up to her usual antics, opening the trailer with her signature sarcastic tone. “We want books. We want paper towels in the class. I bet y’all want raises, too,” she jokes, setting the stage for another season of mismanagement at the underfunded Philadelphia school. The teachers—Janine Teagues (Quinta Brunson), Gregory Eddie (Tyler James Williams), Jacob Hill (Chris Perfetti), and Mr. Johnson (William Stanford Davis)—are already on edge, with a surprise visit from HR adding to the stress.
Unwanted Solutions and Unconventional Problems
The trailer highlights the ongoing struggle for resources that has been a central theme in Abbott Elementary. Janine’s excitement over more after-school programs is dashed when she discovers the school received just $50…for class pets. The chaos escalates with scenes of Janine being bitten by a guinea pig, and Barbara Howard (Sheryl Lee Ralph) affectionately talking to her new pet fish, while a ringworm outbreak sends the faculty into panic mode.
In true Abbott Elementary fashion, the humor is sharp and quick. Ava’s over-the-top hazmat suit, Mr. Johnson’s willingness to quarantine Jacob with force, and Gregory’s dramatic outburst—“Cancel classes, burn Abbott down!”—all promise a season filled with laughter, as well as relatable moments of school-life absurdity.
Season 4 Promises More Laughs and Surprises
While not giving away too many spoilers, series creator and star Quinta Brunson teased that season 4 will be “a fun season of TV” in a recent interview. Viewers can expect more of the heartfelt humor that has made Abbott Elementary such a beloved show, as the teachers continue to navigate the trials and tribulations of working in an underfunded public school system.
Fans won’t have to wait long for the new season—Abbott Elementary premieres Wednesday, Oct. 9, at 9:30 p.m. ET on ABC, and episodes will be available for streaming the next day.
