Abbott Elementary’s Sheryl Lee Ralph Had To ‘Move Away’ From The Screen During Gregory And Janine’s Kiss; ‘Like a Mother Looking’

As a devoted fan of Abbott Elementary, I find myself utterly captivated by the unique dynamics and heartwarming camaraderie that permeates every episode. Sheryl Lee Ralph‘s maternal love for her young castmates is nothing short of inspiring. Her inability to watch Gregory and Janine’s kiss is a testament to the deep bond she shares with them, reminding me of a protective parent shielding their child from the world’s complexities.


Sheryl Lee Ralph didn’t join the crowd of fans anticipating Gregory and Janine’s kiss on Abbott Elementary. On September 12th, she expressed her discomfort with watching the much-anticipated on-screen kiss during a pre-Emmys panel event hosted by PEOPLE in partnership with IHG Hotels & Resorts.

As Ralph, aged 67, I found myself joining my fellow cast members, Lisa Ann Walter, Chris Perfetti, and William Stanford Davis. Reflecting on our Emmy-winning show, there was one particular scene that still gives me a bit of discomfort – the moment when Tyler James Williams and Quinta Brunson’s characters shared a heartfelt kiss.

In a playful manner, she exclaimed, “My mother’s eyes! I found myself repeating, ‘I can’t watch this! I can’t watch this!’ She continued by saying that it was as if a mother watched her adult children engaging in mature activities. This demonstrates that Ralph has a deep maternal affection for the young cast members, and William Stanford Davis, portraying Mr. Johnson, shares this sentiment as well.

In one of his favorite scenes, he shared with the media that he comforted Quinta’s character who was struggling with her feelings for Gregory. He remembered saying, “Everything will be alright. Don’t fret,” during this scene. While consoling her, Davis felt as if he was comforting his own daughter. “We share a special bond,” he noted, “I hold Quinta very dear.

In an interview with PEOPLE last August, Tyler James Williams (Gregory’s actor) shared insights on the close-knit bond among the cast members. He mentioned that their large group chat is constantly active, discussing everything from behind-the-scenes drama to personal matters within their own “family.” As he put it, “Every set feels like a family, so we discuss set issues, our internal family disputes about who’s doing what with whom and who might be upset,” he explained.

Chris Perfetti’s character, Jacob Hill, consistently brings a humorous twist to the family dynamics. On the other hand, Sheryl and Lisa Ann Walter are always providing updates on their observations of everything they witness. Lastly, Janelle James portrays Coleman as the more reserved member of the group.

The show could be popular due to the natural chemistry between the characters, making it resonate with viewers on a realistic level. Critics have also praised the actors’ remarkable performances throughout its three seasons. Over the years, this ABC sitcom has earned a total of 24 Emmy nominations, with nine of those coming up at the upcoming 76th annual awards ceremony.

Abbott Elementary season four is set to premiere on ABC on October 9. 

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2024-09-13 23:08