I firmly believe Abbott Elementary is perfectly carrying on the workplace sitcom tradition: Here's how

Disclaimer: This article on Abbott Elementary highlights the author's opinion. Reader discretion is advised.

There’s something about a good workplace sitcom that always reels me in. Whether it's the awkward office banter in The Office or the wild precinct shenanigans in Brooklyn Nine-Nine, I’ve always enjoyed watching characters fumble through their jobs while somehow becoming like a second family.

That’s why Abbott Elementary felt so special the moment I started watching. The story has all the sitcom essentials like quirky coworkers in a single setting ( here, an elementary school) and plenty of laughs.

But what sets it apart is how effortlessly it blends comedy with reality. It doesn’t just poke fun at work life. It dives into real problems teachers face every day without losing the warmth and charm that sitcoms are known.

As someone who loves this genre, I believe Abbott Elementary is not just continuing the workplace sitcom legacy but also raising the bar. The show's creator and leading cast member, Quinta Brunson, once explained that what matters most in the show is what’s happening within those school walls and that focusing on the little moments is what makes the series feel so genuine.

The actress said:

"‘Abbott’ is really great, because the stories of this school are unique to those walls. And these teachers, their main goal is to take care of these kids. … That is the heart of the show. It doesn’t concern itself with world events. ..."

Keep reading to learn more about the show and how it has become one of the beloved sitcoms on ABC.

---

ABC's Abbott Elementary finds humor in the real-life struggles of teaching

A lot of workplace comedies show a fun, almost make-believe version of work. While The Office is about a bunch of people selling paper, the show is more about their funny personalities than the actual job.

Similarly, Brooklyn Nine-Nine is about police officers, but they’re mostly seen joking around even while solving crimes, which is not very realistic, but it’s super entertaining.

Abbott Elementary is different. It feels more real. Instead of just being about funny coworkers, it shows teachers who are actually struggling in a public school. These teachers deal with real problems like not having enough money, using old books or supplies, and being ignored by the system that’s supposed to support and fund the institution.

But the best part? The show doesn’t get too heavy or depressing. It still makes you laugh, but the jokes come from real and relatable situations. Not only this, but the show doesn't even shy away from highlighting controversies in a lighthearted way, like it addressed the Pat Sajak one in Season 3.

In one of the episodes, Janine struggles to get a new rug for her students; there's one printer in the school that doesn't work. Later, Barbara was seen cleaning her floor with just one tissue because there were no proper cleaning supplies.

These moments show the real struggles teachers face every day, but the show presents it in a way that’s still warm and funny.

Also Read: What is the Pat Sajak controversy about? Details explored after Abbott Elementary Halloween episode portrayal

---

Abbott Elementary does a lot within the short format of a 22-minute network sitcom

During an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Quinta Brunson was asked to shed light on the sitcom's "wholesomeness". The actress agreed and explained that Abbott Elementary follows a short format, during which it covers almost everything.

From thought-provoking situations to comedic moments, viewers can enjoy it all. Brunson said:

"I definitely think it [is]. Abbott does a lot at the same time. It still operates as a 22-minute network sitcom, but it introduces a brand-new humor to the mix."

Each character in the show adds to the show's success, and this is why the makers decided to keep all main characters who will continue to appear until the finale (at least Season 4).

---

Also Read: ABC's Abbott Elementary lead Tyler James Williams to grace the 2025 Disney Dreamers Academy with his presence as "DREAMbassador"

Continue exploring SoapCentral for regular infotainment!