Is Abbott Elementary season 5 happening? Exploring the show's renewal status

Modified Jan 22, 2025 16:51 GMT

A poster of Abbott Elementary (Image via Disney+)

Abbott Elementary has quickly become a favorite among viewers, earning critical acclaim and widespread popularity since its debut on December 7, 2021. Created by Quinta Brunson, the American mockumentary sitcom follows the lives of teachers at an underfunded Philadelphia public school.

The show has been praised for its relatability, humor, and emotional moments. Fans can catch the show on ABC and Hulu after four seasons already broadcast. The program has won several Emmy Awards over its run, including Brunson's acting honors, and its captivating stories still enthrall its viewers.

The big question on fans' minds is whether Abbott Elementary will return for a fifth season. The good news is that the show has officially been renewed for season 5. ABC confirmed this renewal on January 21, 2025, so ensuring the first show booked for the 2025–26 calendar.

Given the regularly high viewership and critical success of the show, this announcement is not shocking. The next season should open in autumn 2025 for fans.

Renewal status of Abbott Elementary season 5

ABC officially renewed Abbott Elementary for a fifth season, continuing its tradition of early renewals for the show. The announcement came in January 2025, during the airing of its fourth season. The early pickup highlights the network's confidence in the series' performance and popularity.

Why the early renewal?

The decision to renew Abbott Elementary early stems from its impressive ratings. Setting a season high with 8.05 million viewers, a crossover episode featuring It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia drew in The show's great performance on Hulu and Disney+ also helped to explain its high multi-platform viewing figures.

Where to watch?

Season 4 currently airs on ABC on Wednesdays at 8:30 PM ET, with episodes available for streaming on Hulu the following day. Season 5 is set to follow the same schedule, making it accessible to both cable and streaming audiences.

The storyline of Abbott Elementary

Abbott Elementary is set in the fictional, mostly Black public school Willard R. Abbott Elementary School in Philadelphia. The program explores the life of teachers trying to change an underfunded and poorly run institution using a mockumentary style.

Key characters and their roles

The series centers on Janine Teagues, an optimistic second-grade teacher determined to improve the lives of her students. She is joined by:

Gregory Eddie, a substitute teacher turned full-time educator, harbors a crush on Janine.
Barbara Howard is a religious kindergarten teacher who serves as a mother figure to Janine.
Ava Coleman, the unqualified and often comedic principal.
Melissa Schemmenti is a second-grade teacher with unique connections that help the school.
Jacob Hill, a well-meaning history teacher.
Mr. Johnson, the school’s quirky and overqualified custodian.

Production and direction

Quinta Brunson, who also stars as Janine Teagues, created the show. Created by Warner Bros. Television and 20th Television, it boasts a gifted team, including executive producers Justin Halpern, Patrick Schumacher, Randall Einhorn, and Brian Rubenstein.

The show's success can be ascribed to its sharp writing, direction, and mockumentary approach, evocative of works like The Office and Parks, and Recreation.