‘Abbott Elementary’ Star Sheryl Lee Ralph Wants ‘Grey’s Anatomy’-Level Run for ABC Comedy

Abbott Elementary is gearing up for its sixth season at ABC, which is hard to believe considering it feels like the Emmy-winning comedy just premiered yesterday.

But as the faculty of the titular school gets ready for class to be back in session beginning Wednesday, October 7, star Sheryl Lee Ralph is reflecting on the milestone the series is reaching with this latest chapter.

The actress, known for playing the passionate Barbara Howard in the series, spoke to People and revealed her high hopes for Abbott Elementary‘s TV future. “I look at it like this: If Grey’s Anatomy could be on for 20 years, why can’t we?” Ralph told the outlet, envisioning a comedy run not dissimilar to FXX‘s It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, which Abbott crossed over with already.

“If this show lasts for five more seasons — that would be 11 seasons now — I would love to still be with her, and just as I continue to grow, I really hope Barbara Howard continues to grow, but it’s all in the hands of Quinta Brunson in the writers’ room,” Ralph admitted.

Ultimately, she revealed, “I love Barbara Howard so much… I’m not going to tell you I’m tired of her because I’m not tired of her. I want to take this journey with her.”

How Barbara’s journey will continue to unfold remains to be seen as we prepare to dive into Season 6, but one thing’s for certain: There’s change on the horizon. As previously revealed, Season 6 will shake things up for the administrators as Gregory (Tyler James Williams) is promoted to assistant principal under Ava (Janelle James). Meanwhile, Abbott was one of the schools saved by the new superintendent, meaning there’s likely to be some strings attached to such a predicament.

 

So, could the comedy have a run on par with Grey’s Anatomy? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below, and don’t miss Abbott Elementary‘s return on ABC.

Abbott Elementary, Season 6 Premiere, Wednesday, October 7, 8:30/7:30c, ABC