Note: This article contains spoilers from “Abbott Elementary” Season 4, Episode 19.
After Ava’s unexpected firing as principal on “Abbott Elementary,” she certainly isn’t sulking. Instead, the following episode showcases Ava, played by Janelle James, diving into her side hustles, including motivational speaking to an enthusiastic audience — a trait that James admires about her character.
James expressed her appreciation for Ava’s resilience, stating, “I love that Ava is like, ‘OK, next thing.’ She’s not wallowing, she’s not begging or even really thinking about it. She feels like they’re lucky to have her, so it’s unfortunate for them that they would do something like that and fire her.”
Ava’s exit from the school was revealed to James by “Abbott Elementary” creator and star Quinta Brunson just prior to filming the episode. “She basically told me beforehand, just so I wouldn’t feel any kind of way,” James shared. “But I’ve never felt more secure in a role anyway, so I wasn’t worried — I was excited.”
James clarified that Ava’s firing will not affect her ongoing role in the series, firmly stating, “they would have to drag me out of there.”
In the interview, James discusses the firing scene, Ava’s current situation, and her aspirations for the character in Season 5.
TheWrap: How did you want to approach that firing scene? Obviously, Ava would never let the crew know she’s upset.
James: The comedic elements leading up to that moment were crucial. It created a big mic drop — I love that. My focus was to keep my performance light and unsuspecting until that point, ensuring the full impact of the surprise, which I believe resonated with everyone.
Seeing the audience’s emotional reaction was touching; I’m honored that I’ve reached people in that way and that the moment resonated. It was a significant moment for the show.
What was it like playing that poignant moment between Ava and Barbara?
Every time I get to act alongside Sheryl Lee Ralph, I feel compelled to elevate my performance. Watching it, I was proud, not only of Ava’s evolution but also of my own growth. This is my first significant role, and I feel like I’ve matured in my acting, with Ava’s story arc mirroring my journey of adapting to new experiences and exceeding expectations. It felt like a dual moment for me.
This episode sees Janine trying to appeal the decision — is Ava interested in getting her job back?
Not at this point, no. Ava’s a rock star, so something will have to occur in future episodes that help her realize her true desires, if any.
After getting fired, Ava is now at her motivational speaking gig. Do you think she had a moment of mourning privately?
I believe she immediately went to her network, making calls and possibly revisiting opportunities she had previously declined. She keeps moving forward. She’s a hustler, and I love that about her.
What are some of Ava’s other side hustles?
Ava is always busy with various activities. It seems she crafts lamps and other items at her desk. She sells clothes, styles Barbara, and likely runs a TikTok channel with brand deals. Besides motivational speaking for the school board, she has her clothing line, Avalicious. She’s juggling multiple streams of income, as they say.
What has been your favorite aspect of exploring Ava’s background this season?
This season feels very much like an Ava season, which has been enjoyable. We’ve learned a lot about her — from her father to her love interest. I appreciate that these developments enrich her story. I have a love interest, and he’s attractive… But what I love about Ava is that even as she becomes softer and more vulnerable, her core personality remains unchanged. She’s not undergoing a complete transformation; she’s revealing different facets of herself, which has been a pleasure for me as an actor.
What are your hopes for Ava next season?
First and foremost, that she remains on the show. I want to see Ava’s home life — how does she really live? Is she as affluent as she claims? What’s O’Shon’s situation? Is he financially savvy?
I surprisingly don’t want to see a resolution with her father. While it could be resolved, I don’t envision her forgiving him. She’s an adult now; it might be too late for that. I think it’s a fresh twist on typical TV narratives. If he returns, I see her rejecting him in her own way, providing closure for that chapter without needing to forgive him. This could also pave the way for her to open up more with O’Shon.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
“Abbott Elementary” airs Wednesdays at 8:30 p.m. ET/PT on ABC and streams the following day on Hulu.
The post ‘Abbott Elementary’ Star Janelle James Loves That Ava Isn’t Wallowing After Firing: ‘Sucks for Them’ appeared first on TheWrap.
