Sheryl Lee Ralph says Abbott Elementary could run as long as Grey's Anatomy
Sheryl Lee Ralph wants Abbott Elementary to keep its classroom doors open for 20 years.
"If Grey's Anatomy could be on for 20 years, why can't we?" Ralph said, floating a long future for the ABC school comedy.
The remarks came in an interview with People magazine, as reported by Deadline on Oct. 4. Ralph, who portrays veteran teacher Barbara Howard, said she would love to still be playing Barbara if the show runs five more seasons to reach 11 seasons.
That would be a long run. Abbott Elementary returns for Season 6 on Wednesday, Oct. 7 at 8:30/7:30c on ABC. The show was renewed in March, with the announcement delivered by Ralph in character as Barbara.
The comparison point is big. Grey's Anatomy premiered in 2005 and is ABC's longest-running scripted primetime show, according to Deadline. Its Season 23 premieres Oct. 15 at 10/9c on ABC.
Abbott Elementary is a workplace comedy about teachers at a Philadelphia public school, according to ABC. It is an Emmy Award-winning comedy and is available to stream on Hulu. The cast includes Quinta Brunson as Janine Teagues, Tyler James Williams as Gregory Eddie, Lisa Ann Walter as Melissa Schemmenti, Janelle James as Ava Coleman, Chris Perfetti as Jacob Hill and William Stanford Davis as Mr. Johnson.
Ralph is herself an Emmy winner, as noted by People. Barbara has become a fan favourite, the no-nonsense teacher holding the staffroom together.
What makes this stand out is the maths. Grey's Anatomy built its two decades one renewal at a time. Ralph is saying Abbott Elementary could do the same. She is not done yet.
