How Abbott Elementary Revived Our Love for Sitcoms

In just a few years, Abbott Elementary has secured its place on TV as an iconic sitcom. 

Sitcoms have always been a staple of television. From oldies like I Love Lucy to early 2000s staples like The Office, comedies have been around since the dawn of TV. In recent years, Quinta Brunson’s workplace comedy has emerged as a beloved stand-out in this category, and for good reason.

Abbott Elementary haHow ‘Abbott Elementary’ Revived Our Love for Sitcomss become recognized as one of the best shows on TV thanks to its blend of humor, heart, and social relevance that resonates with audiences looking for something comforting and meaningful. 

Here’s how the show has helped revive our love of sitcoms.

Where Did All the Sitcoms Go?

While the early 2000s and 2010s marked a renaissance of sitcoms, many ended during the pandemic. Fan-favorite sitcoms like The Good Place, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, and Superstore ended as NBC canceled almost all of its sitcom slate to revive the Law and Order universe in those time slots.

In addition, the shift towards streaming services led to sitcoms being condensed to 10 episodes instead of the traditional 20-22 episodes per season. The shorter episode counts meant audiences could binge-watch a season in one or two sittings. 

This left a substantial gap in the genre of sitcoms we were raised alongside (save for It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, which has been going on for 16 years and counting).

Abbott Elementary arrived at a perfect moment to fill this gap, offering audiences a return to the traditional sitcom structure with longer seasons and a weekly release schedule.

With four seasons in three years, this teaching mockumentary has fulfilled the growing desire for a feel-good workplace sitcom we can count on being there for us after a long day at work.

Why is Abbott a Quintessential Sitcom? 

Anybody who has watched Abbott Elementary can attest that this show has a traditional sitcom feel. There are a couple of ways the show has achieved this. 

The comedy utilizes its established cast of characters exceptionally well in terms of content, with a consistent A, B, and C plot every week. It is an ensemble show, meaning each character always gets a chance to shine every few episodes.

Even side characters, like Mr. Johnson, have a fascinating backstory that keeps viewers wanting to know more. 

This predominantly Black ensemble also brings a unique perspective to the show and its diverse comedic tone. The characters reflect a range of personalities and backgrounds, showcasing authentic diversity.

Abbott Elementary weaves cultural specificity into everyday situations, making it clear that the show is committed to portraying nuanced experiences that resonate with viewers. 

By focusing on inclusion, the show also illuminates the resilience of teachers in underfunded schools that particularly serve students of color.

Through its storytelling, this comedy raises awareness of important social issues while celebrating educators’ determination and dedication.

By presenting these obstacles in a comedic format, Abbott Elementary encourages viewers to consider how they can contribute to positive change. The show functions as entertainment and social commentary, similar to how Superstore effectively explored retail workers’ rights.

The Classic Crossovers and Slow Burns

Abbott Elementary skillfully crafts a romantic relationship, a secondary staple of the sitcom.

The will-they-won’t-they between Gregory and Janine has kept viewers on the edge of their seats for all four seasons.

While a romance doesn’t always have to be at the center of a sitcom, many early sitcoms, like New Girl and The Office, feature will-they-won’t-they romances that have remained iconic in the TV world and ultimately heightened the comedy material.

Lastly, Abbott Elementary has preserved the spirit of sitcoms by taking a leap and doing a crossover episode with It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia.

Crossovers have always been a part of the sitcom’s success. Take the notable two-part New Girl and Brooklyn Nine-Nine crossover or the beloved Cheers and Friends crossover, for example.

Fans of both comedies are looking forward to the exciting and unexpected crossover between the two Philadelphia-based shows, which will surely secure Abbott Elementary‘s place in the sitcom Hall of Fame.

This workplace comedy has gone above and beyond to reignite our love for sitcoms while bringing fresh perspectives to the screen.

In an era where laughter is needed more than ever, this show stands out as a reminder of the power comedy has to bring people together.

Hopefully, this show will follow in the footsteps of long-running mockumentary-style sitcoms like The Office and Parks and Recreation, earning countless seasons and serving as a source of joy and inspiration for years to come.

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Abbott Elementary airs Wednesdays at 9:30/8:30c on ABC and streams the next day on Hulu.

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