The development of Quinta Brunson’s Abbott Elementary has been an incredible journey and the ride just got a whole lot sweeter with the cast winning big at the 2023 NAACP Image Awards.
The recently renewed sitcom amassed nine nominations (including one for Outstanding Comedy Series!) and Quinta Brunson, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Janelle James, Tyler James Williams, Lisa Ann Walter, Chris Perfetti, and William Stanford Davis were all at the award ceremony to see how they made out.
While on the red carpet, Brunson expressed both her gratitude and amazement at Abbott Elementary being recognized by the NAACP:
“It means the world to me,” the actress said. “I created ‘Abbott’ to be accessible to any and every one, however at the root of that is having the truth of our stories. Now, if I made a show that Black people didn’t like [but] everyone else did, I would feel like I would not have done my job as a creator in bringing my expertise, my knowledge, my love of our people and culture to the project. So, for the NAACP to not only like see us, but recognize us and include us in the celebration, that is one of the most fulfilling things I think that has happened to me this year. Because I love us, and I am happy they know that.”
Saying they were merely recognized would be an understatement. Quinta Brunson won best lead actress in a comedy series and breakthrough creative in television, while co-stars Williams and James nabbed best supporting actor and actress in a comedy series, respectively.
The show also took home best comedy series. And as the cherry on top, Ralph and James came together to present the very first award of the evening, best lead actor in a drama series.
Now that is black excellence at its finest! Congrats everyone!
