Another school year has started, bringing with it a new schedule of shenanigans at Willard R. Abbott Public School. The fourth season of Abbott Elementary promises more classroom humor and cheeky pop culture references, as well as some romance between teachers—spoiler alert!

Fans might recall that the last season ended with Janine (Quinta Brunson) and Gregory (Tyler James Williams) finally deciding to date after many will-they, won’t-they moments. Jacob (Chris Perfetti) is also seeing his love life heat up, while Barbara (Sheryl Lee Ralph) and Melissa (Lisa Ann Walter) solidify their friendship. You can also expect more antics from Ava (Janelle James) and Mr. Johnson (William Stanford Davis).

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Prashant Gupta

Alongside the classic cast, we’re also bound to see plenty of guest stars in season four, which comes out on October 9. Last season surprised fans with cameos from Bradley Cooper, Kevin Hart, and more, meaning some big names could temporarily join the Abbott Elementary family.

After all, the show racked up multiple Emmy wins last year, and won Best Comedy Series at the 2023 Golden Globes. For Harper's BAZAAR's February issue, Brunson and costar Sheryl Lee Ralph reflect on that success.

“I get to come to a show every day that I genuinely love. From the story phase, to the outline phase, to the table reads, to us actually filming it, to the very moment that it's on its last edit, I'm constantly inspired,” Brunson tells BAZAAR. “That's a rare feeling as a creator, for your own work to inspire you, but it's because I'm working with so many amazing people.”

Ahead, we break down everything you need to know about the fourth season.

What will Abbott Elementary season 4 be about?

Things have definitely changed since the beginning of season 3, with Janine doing a stint at the district office. Her relationship with Greg will likely be a big part of the upcoming season, as will bigger issues like the takeover of charter schools and Ava’s role as principal. Get a better feel of what’s to come from the show’s latest trailer, featuring Mr. Johnson and a familiar art project.

A major plot shift was confirmed at San Diego Comic-Con, however, where Brunson revealed that Abbott Elementary would have its first crossover episode with another series. While the collaborating show has yet to be announced, fans have predicted it may be The Connors, since the series is the only other returning sitcom coming back for this year. Of course, ABC hosts a ton of reality and competition shows too, so maybe we’ll see a crossover with something like Wheel of Fortune.

When will Abbott Elementary return?

ABC revealed the series will be back on October 9. If you’re watching live on Wednesdays, take note that the show has moved from its 9 p.m. spot to a 9:30 p.m. (ET) spot. Otherwise, you can stream the show the next day on Hulu.

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Maya Ernest
Weekend news editor

Maya Ernest is an editor who covers everything from the latest fashion news to features that investigate personal style, social media trends, and thoughtful consumption.