Abbott Elementary: Tyler James Williams Talks Gregory and Janine’s Romantic Journey [Interview]
Tyler James Williams’ Gregory Eddie came to Abbott Elementary seeking temporary employment. However, his unique quirks quickly disarmed fans of the mockumentary and charmed fellow teacher, Ms. Janine Teagues.
The rest, as they say, is history.
We caught up with Williams on the red carpet ahead of the Abbott Elementary panel at PaleyFest to discuss one particular element of this show people cannot get enough of — Janine and Gregory’s workplace romance. (You can watch the full video below.)
“That’s what everyone is talking about,” Williams confirmed with a laugh.
And for good reason. This slow-burning ship between the two passionate teachers is not left to chance. Gregory and Janine’s first kiss in the classroom garden cashed in big on building romantic tension and was a pivotal scene for the couple’s trajectory.
“I think that scene was all Quinta’s [Brunson], especially the way it was executed,” Williams said. “She had such a very clear idea of what it was supposed to be.”
“Even when I was reading it, I was like, ‘Alright, so there’s some flowers in the room.’ Then I saw it and was like, ‘Okay, I really get this.’ So yes, it is very intentional.”
Watch the full interview with Tyler James Williams:
“You’re going to see more of that along the way,” Williams added, suggesting that this first kiss is one of many intentional milestones blossoming for Janine and Gregory.
Williams also explained Abbott Elementary is committed to the long game and exploring the slow, swoon-worthy passion of their feelings one stolen glance or secret knock at a time.
“We are super focused on the journey and not necessarily the endgame. And I think those moments in the journey are going to be very intentional.”
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*Additional reporting by Ashley Bissette Sumerel
Abbott Elementary airs Wednesdays at 9/8c on ABC.
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Quinta Brunson is Staying Focused on ‘Abbott Elementary’ [Video]
Alicia Gilstorf
Alicia is a Rotten Tomatoes Certified Critic and a Critics Choice Association member. She credits her passion for TV to workplace sitcoms, paranormal dramedies, and coming-of-age stories. In her free time, Alicia loves to curl up with a good book and lose herself in a cozy game. Keep a lookout for her coverage of Ghosts. You can also find her work on Eulalie Magazine and Cool Girl Critiques. Follow Alicia on social media: @aliciagilstorf