Abbott Elementary's returning cast. One of the most exciting aspects involves Gregory and Janine's relationship status, especially given their ionate kiss at the end of season 3. Abbott Elementary season 4, episode 1, "Back to School," confirmed that Gregory and Janine are now dating, a major relief considering the slow-burn nature of their relationship.

However, Gregory and Janine's recently changed relationship status introduces a serious concern. Sometimes, a show can go downhill after the central couple gets together, usually because the narrative switches gears and focuses entirely on romance. This prospect is worrying for the show. While Janine and Gregory are the best couple in Abbott Elementary and are among the best parts of the show, Abbott Elementary has always been much more than romance. Thankfully, the premiere of Abbott Elementary season 4 proves the show will not go down this road, introducing a harsh but critical reality about Janine and Gregory.

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Abbott Elementary Season 4 Review: A Hilarious Premiere Proves Why It's The Best Sitcom On TV

Following the exciting season 3 finale, Abbott Elementary returns with season 4 and proves why it's one of the best shows on network TV.

Abbott Elementary Season 4's Golf Course Storyline Shows Janine & Gregory's Romance Isn't That Important

Janine & Gregory's Romance Is Not The Focal Point Of The Show

While Gregory and Janine's relationship will they, won't they dynamic is a riveting aspect of Abbott Elementary, the fourth season's premiere proves that the show has always been much more than their romance. In fact, Janine and Gregory's relationship is not the most important part of Abbott Elementary, and the introduction of the golf course storyline illustrates that. In the grand scheme, Janine and Gregory's romance takes a backseat to the greater narrative. Abbott Elementary always has more important things going on, and Janine and Gregory's relationship is simply not the focal point.

Abbott Elementary Season 4 (So Far)

Episode Title

Release Date

Back to School

October 9, 2024

Ringworm

October 16, 2024

Class Pet

October 23, 2024

Costume Contest

October 30, 2024

Dad Fight

November 6, 2024

First and foremost, Abbott Elementary is a mockumentary-styled show about the realities in public education, no matter how harsh they might be. Therefore, the golf course storyline would have a more significant impact than Janine and Gregory's romance since it impacts the school as a whole. The writers of Abbott Elementary gave the golf course plot more importance than Janine and Gregory's relationship, an intelligent decision that will pay off in the end and acts as a good sign for Abbott Elementary's future.

Janine & Gregory's Romance Situation Is Good News For Abbott Elementary's Future

The Essence Of Abbott Elementary Has Always Been Public Education

Abbott Elementary's decision to sideline Gregory and Janine's romance might be frustrating to viewers who primarily watch the show for them, but overall, it is an excellent choice regarding the show's future. At its heart, Abbott Elementary has always been about the ins and outs of public education, while focusing on the priceless importance that teachers have. While it is nice to have a Janine and Gregory-centric episode every now and then, Abbott Elementary would lose sight of its appeal and stray from what makes the show so important.

Furthermore, focusing solely on one romance in a sitcom is not ideal. A narrative can only provide so many jokes about one couple before the humor becomes stale. However, significant issues that continue to shape and define Abbott Elementary School will always provide new comedic moments and jokes while highlighting important issues about the public education system. Hopefully, Abbott Elementary season 4 will continue down this path while still dabbling in Janine and Gregory's relationship when the time is right.

Abbott Elementary Season 3 TV Series Poster

Your Rating

Abbott Elementary
TV-PG
Comedy
Mockumentary
Release Date
December 7, 2021
Network
ABC
Showrunner
Quinta Brunson
  • Headshot Of Quinta Brunson
    Quinta Brunson
    Janine Teagues
  • Headshot Of Tyler James Williams In The 29th Annual Critics' Choice Awards
    Tyler James Williams
    Gregory Eddie

WHERE TO WATCH

Streaming

Abbott Elementary is a mockumentary comedy series centered around a group of dedicated teachers at a struggling public school in Philadelphia. The show highlights their efforts to overcome bureaucratic challenges and underfunding, while showcasing their commitment to making a positive impact on their students' lives.

Seasons
4
Streaming Service(s)
MAX
Where To Watch
Hulu