15 Best Guest Stars on ‘Abbott Elementary’ So Far

Abbott Elementary has showcased an impressive lineup of iconic guest stars in just four seasons. From beloved celebrities like Bradley Cooper to comedy legends like Keegan-Michael Key, the show always pulls out unexpected appearances to delightfully surprise viewers.

The upcoming Abbott Elementary and It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia crossover marks an exciting moment that celebrates the sitcom genre. While also pointing to Abbott Elementary‘s long-running tradition of inviting guests onto the show. 

While there are plenty more guest stars to come in future seasons, let’s look at the best guest stars on Abbott Elementary so far. 

Here are the best Abbott Elementary guest stars, in no particular order:

1. Cree Summer

Abbott’s librarian, Ms. Rosalyn Inez, is played by Cree Summer. She first appears on Abbott Elementary Season 3 Episode 7, “Librarian,” and reappears later on Abbott Elementary Season 3 Episode 11, “Double Date.” 

Ms. Inez becomes an integral part of the school community as Summer continues guest starring on the show in Season 4, notably on Abbott Elementary Season 4 Episode 3, “Class Pet,” and Abbott Elementary Season 4 Episode 4, “Costume Contest.” 

Cree Summer is well-known for her voice-acting in animation, notably as Susie Carmichael in Rugrats and Elmyra Duff in Tiny Toon Adventures. Her addition to Abbott Elementary brings her talent to the live-action screen, also enriching the show’s unique ensemble. 

2. Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson plays Janine’s estranged mother, Vanetta Teagues. She appears on Abbott Elementary Season 2 Episode 21, “Mom.”

Vanetta shows up at Abbott Elementary and unintentionally stirs up some conflict by asking for her daughter’s help. Henson’s portrayal of Vanetta skillfully adds to the nuances of Janine’s complicated mother-daughter relationship. 

She also has a voice cameo via a phone call on Abbott Elementary Season 3 Episode 12, “Mother’s Day.”

Taraji P. Henson has several influential roles across movies and television shows, including Katherine Johnson in Hidden Figures and Queenie in The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. Her guest spot on Abbott Elementary is a standout addition, contributing to Janine’s backstory. 

3. Questlove

Audiences were likely just as surprised as the Abbott Elementary teachers when Questlove appeared on Abbott Elementary Season 3 Episode 10, “2 Ava 2 Fest.” His arrival at Ava Fest proves that Ava wasn’t lying about her connection to him. 

Questlove is recognized for his extensive music career, notably for his role in the hip-hop band The Roots. This band has been featured on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon since 2014. He has also produced music for countless iconic artists, such as Elvis Costello and Jay-Z. 

Questlove’s unexpected cameo adds a touch of star power and humor. His guest role is a great nod to his cultural significance, making it a memorable moment on Abbott Elementary. 

4. Keegan-Michael Key

Keegan-Michael Key portrays Philadelphia School District superintendent John Reynolds. He makes several appearances throughout season 3, including Abbott Elementary Season 3 Episode 8, “Panel,” and Abbott Elementary Season 3 Episode 9, “Alex.” 

Keegan-Michael Key is a notable comedian who co-created the sketch series Key & Peele with Jordan Peele. He also starred in the musical comedy Schmigadoon! and voiced roles like Toad in The Super Mario Bros. Movie. 

Key’s portrayal is both humorous and essential to the show’s depiction of educational leadership. Through his character’s interactions, he plays a pivotal role in helping Janine realize she wants to return to Abbott Elementary. 

5. Bradley Cooper

Born and raised in Philadelphia, award-winning Bradley Cooper stopped by Abbott Elementary following his recent Oscar nomination. He appeared on Abbott Elementary Season 3 Episode 6, “Willard R. Abbott.” 

Bradley Cooper rose to fame through his roles in various movies, including Rocket in the Marvel movie franchise Guardians of the Galaxy. He has also appeared in several notable TV shows, such as Sex and the City. 

On Abbott Elementary, Cooper got to show his comedic side and bring his signature charm to this sitcom. 

6. Leslie Odom Jr. 

Leslie Odom Jr. plays the head of Abbott Elementary’s rival charter school, Draemond Winding. He first appears on Abbott Elementary Season 2 Episode 7, “Attack Ad,” and later on Abbott Elementary Season 2 Episode 19, “Festival.” 

While Draemond is an antagonist, Leslie Odom Jr. is a widely beloved actor and singer. He’s most known for his role as Aaron Burr in the musical Hamilton. He has also appeared in several movies and shows, including Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery. 

Leslie Odom Jr. brings a natural charisma to Draemond that makes him a compelling character. While he may be Abbott’s biggest enemy, he’s also a character audiences can’t help but be drawn to. 

7. Lana Condor 

In an attempt to deny his feelings for Janine, Gregory finds himself on a date with Olivia, portrayed by Lana Condor. While she only appears on Abbott Elementary Season 3 Episode 11, “Double Date,” Olivia’s rejection of Gregory helps him come to terms with his crush on Janine. 

Lana Condor has gained recognition in recent years for her starring role in the To All the Boys film series on Netflix. She also voiced the main character in Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken. She’s even had a voice role in the animated dark comedy series Bojack Horseman. 

While many fans wished Condor had a more extensive guest star role, her character serves as an essential catalyst in the overall arc of Gregory and Janine’s relationship. 

8. Orlando Jones

Much like Janine’s turbulent relationship with her mother, Gregory has a strained relationship with his father, Martin Eddie, played by Orlando Jones. Abbott Elementary Season 1 Episode 8, “Work Family,” is the first glimpse we see into Gregory’s desire to fulfill his father’s wish for him to work at his landscaping company. 

On Abbott Elementary Season 2 Episode 12, “Fight,” Martin stops by the school. Gregory finally dares to tell his father that he wants to work at Abbott Elementary for the foreseeable future. Martin’s most recent appearance was on Abbott Elementary Season 4 Episode 5, “Dad Fight.” 

Orlando Jones is often recognized for his role on American Gods. He has also appeared on Everybody Hates Chris and Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.  

If the show decides to explore Gregory’s changing relationship with his father in future seasons, Orlando Jones will likely make more appearances.  

9. Kevin Hart

When Janine questions whether Kevin Hart is her father, not even Janine herself expected the comedian to make an appearance. On Abbott Elementary Season 3 Episode 12, “Mother’s Day,” Kevin Hart briefly FaceTimes Janine to ask her to stop reaching out to him because he isn’t her father. 

Kevin Hart is recognized as an accomplished stand-up comedian, receiving several Emmy nominations for his work. He has also been in multiple film and TV roles, such as starring in the new Jumanji movies. 

His surprise cameo on Abbott Elementary adds a humorous twist to Janine’s search for answers about her father. 

10. Gritty

For a show set in Philadelphia, Abbott Elementary scored big with securing a visit from Gritty. This orange mascot appears on Abbott Elementary Season 2 Episode 1, “Development Day.” 

Gritty is the mascot for the Flyers, Philadelphia’s hockey team. His eccentric personality has made him an internet sensation and a beloved figure in Philadelphia sports. 

His cameo on Abbott Elementary demonstrates that the show isn’t afraid to embrace authentic Philly culture. Gritty’s presence reminds viewers of how important Philadelphia is to the show. 

11. Ayo Edebiri

Janine’s family boasts some serious star power, with Ayo Edebiri portraying her sister, Ayesha Teagues. Ayesha appears on Abbott Elementary Season 2 Episode 14, “Valentine’s Day,” and later appears on Abbott Elementary Season 2 Episode 18, “Teacher Appreciation.” 

During game night, Ayesha and Janine discuss their shared struggles with their mother. The next day, Ayesha visits Janine and Abbott Elementary, signaling a renewed effort to rebuild their sisterly bond. 

Ayo Edebiri is a comedian and actress best known for her role as Sydney on The Bear. She has also appeared in several notable movies, including Inside Out 2 and Bottoms. In every role she takes on, Ayo Edebiri effortlessly combines heartfelt emotion with humor, as with her performance on Abbott Elementary.

12. The Philadelphia Eagles 

Abbott Elementary received a surprise visit from local and national legends: Jason Kelce, Jalen Hurts, and Brandon Graham. These three football players from the Philadelphia Eagles appear on Abbott Elementary Season 3 Episode 2, “Career Day Part 2.” 

Much like Gritty’s cameo, these players’ appearances on Abbott Elementary reveal that the show stays true to its roots by honoring Philadelphian culture. Their appearance not only adds an authentic local touch but also resonates with the community and fans of both the Eagles and the sitcom. 

13. Tatyana Ali 

Ava finally meets her match with Krystal, played by Tatyana Ali. She first appears on Abbott Elementary Season 3 Episode 8, “Panel,” and she is also featured on Abbott Elementary Season 3 Episode 13, “Smith Playground.”  

Krystal is the principal of another Philadelphia school. She is also Ava’s former sorority sister and the two have a competitive relationship that’s entertaining to watch. 

Tatyana Ali is most notably recognized for her role as Ashley Banks on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. She brings a vibrant energy to Krystal that makes her brief appearance memorable. 

14. Vince Staples

Vince Staples’ character, Maurice, is a key character on Abbott Elementary Season 2. Maurice first appears on Abbott Elementary Season 2 Episode 10, “Holiday Hookah,” when he and Janine begin seeing each other. 

However, because Janine obviously has feelings for Gregory, she awkwardly breaks up with Maurice in front of Gregory on Abbott Elementary Season 2 Episode 17, “Mural.” 

Vince Staples is often recognized for his extensive music career as a rapper and hip-hop artist. However, he has plenty of experience on TV, as he starred in his own show, The Vince Staples Show. 

His performance on Abbott Elementary highlights his versatility as an artist. He does a fantastic job of bringing a comedic performance. 

15. Talia Shire

One of the more recent cameos on Abbott Elementary is Talia Shire. She stars as Melissa Schemmenti’s mother, Teresa, on Abbott Elementary Season 4 Episode 8, “Winter Break.” 

Teresa gives Melissa plenty of tough love. Throughout the episode, we see how Teresa shaped Melissa into the strong, no-nonsense person she is. 

Talia Shire has an impressive career in acting, with starring roles in The Godfather and Rocky movie trilogies. With her guest spot on Abbott Elementary, she has now also made her mark in the sitcom world as well. 

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Which of these cameos was your favorite? Are there any actors you want to see in future seasons of the show? Let us know in the comments below!

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

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