Abbott Elementary Season 5 Episode 18 Review: April Fools

Abbott Elementary Season 5 Episode 18, “April Fools,” is a hilarious, lighthearted outing that incorporates delightful whodunit elements. It’s a clever way of making April Fools’ Day the crux of the episodic narrative while bringing a dash of mystery into the fold. Pam Trotter, Janelle James, and Lisa Ann Walter, in particular, really stand out. 

Abbott Elementary, “April Fools” 

The dynamic between Ava and Dia has always been fun to watch on screen, and the tides turn in Dia’s favor in “April Fools.” After three seasons of putting up with Ava’s shenanigans with an eye roll and a sigh, Dia fights back. It’s always the quiet ones who might retaliate by partnering with kids to execute some elaborate (and impressive) pranks. 

The twist that Dia is behind it all isn’t entirely out of left field — after ruling Morton out, it was pretty easy to guess it was her — but it’s still fun all the same. It’ll be interesting to see how Ava treats Dia from here on out. Will the principal of our titular school continue to sleep with one eye open? Will Ava tell Dia that she doesn’t have to curtsy anymore when bringing her coffee (that was a pretty funny bit)?

As mentioned above, James and Trotter are episodic all-stars, and they’re even better together. James doles out sharp one-liners like the pro she is. It’s also hilarious to watch Ava crumble under pressure and “refuse to go down with the ship” despite being the captain. You’d think a doomsday prepper like her would be more prepared for errant behavior on April Fools’ Day. 

Satan’s Vapors 

Meanwhile, our teachers brave the onslaught of pranks from their students, and they’re equal parts creative and silly. Above all else, “April Fools” is pure, unadulterated silliness. The stakes are high, but the reason is so ludicrous that you can’t help but laugh.

That said, there’s certainly a feeling of suspense when each teacher becomes the victim of an April Fools’ Day prank, and you wonder who’s next on the joke chopping block. 

There’s something so wholesome about Gregory inventing a holiday and new traditions to counteract April Fools’ Day. And “Serious Day” is Gregory Eddie to a tee. Tyler James Williams treating the situation with so much gravity as Gregory is delightful to watch. 

Lisa Ann Walter has one of the best scenes in “April Fools.” Melissa breaking down over the students showcasing pictures of her in Dallas Cowboys gear is laugh-inducing. Her genuine emotion here and her choice not to play it for laughs make it even funnier. 

The pranks get increasingly elaborate in this episode, with each one tailored to the teacher for whom it’s intended. The suspense builds organically throughout, culminating in that Dia reveal at the end. Making her birthday the same day as April Fools’ Day is the cherry on top of the comedy sundae. The nervous “Happy Birthday” rendition after said reveal? Hilarious. Hell hath no fury like a Dia scorned. 

Stray Observations: 

• Mr. Johnson and Stanley Tucci are soulmates … I knew it! It all makes sense. 
• I agree with Gregory wholeheartedly. We need to abolish April Fools’ Day. Too many people are already fools 365 days a year. 
• “Satan’s vapors” sent me to outer space (along with the Artemis II crew). Barbara is a bona fide comedian. 
• I would celebrate “Serious Day.” Gregory can read me facts for 24 hours straight. 
• Ava’s eye patch so she can “sleep with one eye open” cracked me up. Perfection. 

---

What did you think of this episode of Abbott Elementary? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to leave your own rating!

Critic Rating:

Audience Rating:

 

Abbott Elementary airs new episodes every Wednesday at 8:30/7:30c on ABC, with next-day streaming on Hulu.

Check out our latest TV recommendations, updated weekly!

Want more from Tell-Tale TV? Subscribe to our newsletter here!