Janelle James Discusses Ava’s Firing from Abbott Elementary – Hints at Her Character’s Future: “She’s Onto the Next”

Janelle James Discusses Ava’s Firing from Abbott Elementary – Hints at Her Character’s Future: “She’s Onto the Next”

Ava may have been let go from Abbott Elementary, but actress Janelle James, who portrays the fan-favorite principal, is confident her character’s journey isn’t over.

In the March 19 episode titled “Audit” of Quinta Brunson’s ABC comedy, Ava’s dismissal came after a scandal involving the school’s acceptance of bribe money from a golf course. Although Ava took the fall, James isn’t concerned about her character’s fate.

“I found out just before filming,” James shared in a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter. “Quinta told me, ‘You’re going to get fired, but don’t worry, you’ll be back.’ I was like, ‘Okay, cool. I love a good twist.’ I trust Quinta, so I knew there was a bigger plan behind it. I was excited to see how it would play out and how people would react.”

James also commented on the fans’ emotional response to Ava’s firing. “It feels great, like I’m Mother Teresa or something. I love seeing the people who didn’t like me in season one getting emotional now. That’s how I like it – just like with my men. They didn’t like me at first, and now they’re crying,” she said with a laugh, teasing that she knows exactly how Ava’s story will evolve, though she wouldn’t spoil it just yet.

She also addressed a recent interview with producer Patrick Schumacker, who revealed that Ava will return, reassuring viewers that the firing wasn’t permanent. “It made me feel good that the producers had to jump in and tell people I’m coming back, especially after some fans said they weren’t going to keep watching. I wish Patrick hadn’t spoiled it, though,” James joked.

Looking ahead, James teased Ava’s outlook in the upcoming episodes. “I love that Ava’s not dwelling on it. She’s like, ‘Your loss,’ and she’s already onto the next thing. That’s my favorite part of Ava—she’s always moving forward. And honestly, that’s how I’d react in real life too. Like Barbara [Sheryl Lee Ralph] says, Ava was killing it, so now she’s like, ‘You think you’ve gotten rid of me? Well, I’ve got bigger things to do.’ But as for how it will all resolve, you’ll have to wait and see!”

Abbott Elementary airs Wednesdays on ABC.

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