Abbott Elementary Bringing Back Its Most Underrated Character Fixes A Season 3 Problem

Warning! This article contains SPOILERS for Abbott Elementary season 3, episode 10

Summary Principal Ava's zanier subplots add much-needed comic relief in Abbott Elementary season 3, episode 10.

The Questlove subplot showcases Ava's pivotal role in the sitcom's balance of comedy and drama.

Abbott Elementary cleverly uses Ava's absurdity to contrast with the show's more grounded setting.

Although Abbott Elementary season 3, episode 10 was an emotionally charged outing, the sitcom kept things light by bringing its most underrated character back into the spotlight. Abbott Elementary’s cast of characters all play a vital part in the mockumentary sitcom’s success, but some of their roles are significantly sillier than others. Barbara Howard is a sweet, maternal mentor to Janine, whereas Mr. Johnson is a comically unhinged presence whose antics lighten up every episode. While Abbott Elementary season 4 may change this, Janelle James’ Principal Ava currently occupies a space between these two extremes as a character.

Principal Ava started out as one of the show’s most outlandish figures thanks to her doomsday prepping and her ridiculous purchases. However, season 1, episode 9, “Step Class,” saw her reveal some hidden depths when Janine discovered that Ava cared for her ailing grandmother. Ava’s role has been somewhat subdued since Abbott Elementary season 3 sent Janine to work in the school district, with the principal mostly hanging out with colleagues. Ava struggled to hold her own at a teaching panel with Gregory and helped Barbara stand up to her choir, but her wackier side wasn’t seen early in season 3.

Principal Ava's Comeback Shows What Abbott Elementary Season 3 Was Missing

Episode 10’s Questlove Subplot Proved Principal Ava Plays A Pivotal Role

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Although Ava hasn’t been her goofy self this season, season 3, episode 10, “2 Ava 2 Fest,” changed that completely. Ava’s claims that she knew Questlove and could get him to perform at the school’s open house were laughably ludicrous, and the revelation that she was telling the truth all along was an inspired punchline. Ava’s zanier subplots were integrated throughout seasons 1 and 2, but this was the first time that season 3 brought back her more ridiculous character traits. It was a welcome change of pace as the outing mostly centered on Janine struggling with her school district contract.

Although Abbott Elementary’s Ava mocked the show's premise with one gag in an earlier outing, the supporting star hasn’t gotten as much time in the spotlight since Janine left for her fellowship. This is a shame as Ava’s zanier subplots allow Abbott Elementary to take on heavier topics, like public education’s pertinent under-funding, without feeling too grim or heavy. Cutting to Ava’s latest scheme helps the mockumentary balance comedy and drama, as epitomized by Janine and Gregory’s season 3 premiere breakup. The sad sight of the duo’s disagreement was punctuated by Ava gleefully watching the footage while eating popcorn.

Abbott Elementary’s Ava Stories Elevate The Sitcom's Setup

Ava’s Absurdity Contrasts Well With Abbott’s Grounded Setting

The hard-working teachers of the eponymous are pretty relatable, so Abbott Elementary needs a character who is goofy and zany to keep proceedings light and fun. Although Abbott Elementary has avoided many sitcom mistakes in its three seasons, the series has still learned from its predecessors. Ava’s antics mirror those of The Office’s Michael Scott, Parks and Recreation’s Tom Haverford, or Brooklyn Nine-Nine’s Gina Linetti, all of whom provided comic relief when their respective shows got too invested in romance, character exits, or other dramatic storylines. Thus, Abbott Elementary season 3’s Ava comeback proved how vital her role is to the show.

Episode # Episode Title Release Date 1 "Career Day, Part 1" February 7 2 "Career Day, Part 2" February 7 3 "Gregory's Garden Goofballs" February 14 4 "Smoking" February 21 5 "Breakup" February 28 6 "Willard R. Abbott" March 10 7 "Librarian" March 13 8 "Panel" March 20 9 "Alex" April 10 10 "2 Ava 2 Fest" April 17 11 "Double Date" April 24 12 "Mother's Day" May 8 13 Unknown Unknown 14 Unknown Unknown