Abbott Elementary isn’t just a hit mockumentary sitcom — it’s also a showcase of bold fashion, standout footwear, and a diverse cast of Hollywood talent.
Whether you’re curious how Quinta Brunson’s petite 4’11” frame influences her red carpet style or what shoes Chris Perfetti wore with his Louboutins, we’ve ranked the cast from shortest to tallest and spotlighted their fashion choices along the way.
“Abbot Elementary” features relatable and humorous characters and clever commentary on the American education system.
Given the show’s stellar writing and talented cast, it’s no surprise that Abbott Elementary has firmly cemented its place as a must-watch series.
(L–R) Chris Perfetti, Sheryl Lee Ralph in metallic gold, Quinta Brunson in a sheer ruffled gown, Lisa Ann Walter in velvet blue, Janelle James in burgundy with strappy heels, William Stanford Davis, and Tyler James Williams in two-tone loafers celebrate Abbott Elementary’s Best Comedy Series win at the 2023 Critics Choice Awards held January 15 at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles (Credit: Kathy Hutchins / Shutterstock)
Let’s dive in and get to know the eclectic cast of seasoned actors and upcoming talents of “Abbott Elementary,” rank them from shortest to tallest, and see how they contribute to the show’s success.
Quinta Brunson’s Height: 4’11” (149.9 cm) – Petite Star and Abbott Elementary Creator
Show creator Quinta Brunson excels as the show’s hardworking and cheerful character, Janine Teagues.
The American actress, writer, and comedian stands 4 feet and 11 inches (149.9 cm) tall. Quinta playfully revealed her petite height during an interview with Mike Hughes on TV, stating that she can comfortably fit in any airplane seat.
Quinta’s character, Janine, is a second-grade teacher described as the institution’s heart and soul. She is hardworking and dedicated and always puts her students first. Despite her good intentions, Janine can occasionally irritate her coworkers, but everyone can see that she has a kind heart.
Quinta Brunson, the 4-foot-11 actress and creator of Abbott Elementary, exudes confidence in a fitted blush turtleneck, pleated brown midi skirt, and gold-accented belt during a scene from the hit series (149.9 cm) (Credit: ABC)
Inspired by a Real Teacher: The Heartwarming Story Behind Janine Teagues’ Name
Quinta’s character, Janine—and the show’s name—may be based on Quinta’s sixth-grade teacher, Ms. Joyce Abbott.
The comedian appeared on a February 2022 episode of Jimmy Kimmel Live!, where she was surprised when Ms. Abbott appeared on a video call. Quinta got emotional and started tearing up during the appearance.
Ms. Abbott said Quinta was an “awesome student” who was shy and timid when she first came to her class. However, she worked to build confidence by challenging students to speak in complete sentences and work hard toward their goals.
From Emmys to SNL: Quinta Brunson’s Rise as a Writer, Performer, and Advocate
Quinta has already established herself as a talented writer and performer. For her work on the pilot episode of Abbott Elementary, she received the 2022 Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series.
Quinta was the guest host on the April 1, 2023 episode of Saturday Night Live. During her appearance, she talked about the hard work she had to do to land her hosting gig.
“I just created my own TV show, made sure it became popular, won a bunch of Emmys and then got invited to host it, so much easier,” she joked and described “Abbott Elementary” as “a network sitcom, like say Friends.”
“Except instead of being about a group of friends, it’s about a group of teachers,” she continued. “And instead of New York, it’s Philadelphia. And instead of not having black people, it does.”
During Quinta’s “SNL” appearance, she also discussed her “Abbott Elementary” character and advocated for respect and fair pay for real-life teachers.
Quinta Brunson wears a custom Dolce & Gabbana draped gown, embroidered with Swarovski crystals, at the Vanity Fair Oscar Party Hosted By Radhika Jones held March 12, 2023, at Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills, California (Credit: Featureflash Photo Agency / Shutterstock)
Quinta was hard at work even before “Abbott Elementary” became the beloved sitcom it is today—the multi-talented beauty built a fan base by creating and participating in online series for BuzzFeed.
The actress entered the acting scene when she took the lead in the inaugural season of HBO’s “A Black Lady Sketch Show.”
Quinta has also appeared in several other television series, including “Miracle Workers,” “iZombie,” and “Single Parents.” She also appeared in the 2022 film “Weird: The Al Yankovic Story.”
Lisa Ann Walter’s Height: 5’3½” (161.3 cm) – Scene-Stealing Comedian and South Philly Teacher
American actress and comedian Lisa Ann Walter is 5 feet and 3½ inches (161.3 cm) tall. She brings her talent and experience to the role of Melissa Schemmenti in the television series Abbott Elementary.
Lisa Ann Walter, the 5-foot-3½-inch actress best known for The Parent Trap and Abbott Elementary, brings fierce confidence to the classroom in sleek faux leather leggings, a fitted black tunic, and gold accessories (Credit: ABC)
Lisa’s character Melissa is a second-grade teacher from South Philly known for her stern and snarky attitude toward her students and coworkers.
Her amusing neighborhood ties add a unique flavor to the comedy, and her complicated family connections give the show an extra layer of drama.
Before landing the role of Melissa, the 59-year-old actress had already made a name for herself in Hollywood. She began her career in blockbuster movies and starred in several hit films before transitioning to television.
Lisa Ann Walter stuns in a lustrous silver satin blazer and matching midi skirt, paired with black ankle-strap platform peep-toe heels, at the 2023 PaleyFest LA session for “Abbott Elementary,” held April 1 at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, California (Credit: Faye’s Vision / Cover Images)
Lisa is perhaps best known for her role as Chessy in the 1998 remake of The Parent Trap. In 1996, she co-created and starred in her own short-lived ABC comedy, Life’s Work. In 2005, Lisa played the pivotal role of Cheryl in the adaptation of the War of the Worlds.
Sheryl Lee Ralph’s Height: 5’6¾” (170 cm) – Emmy-Winning Actress and Kindergarten Icon
Sheryl Lee Ralph, who is 5 feet and 6 ¾ inches (170 cm) tall, plays Barbara Howard on Abbott Elementary.
Barbara is a kindergarten teacher who clashes with her younger colleagues because of her traditional teaching methods and stark opposition to technology. Despite this, Barbara can mentor Janine effectively in the show.
Emmy-winning actress Sheryl Lee Ralph, who stands 5 feet 6¾ inches tall, radiates elegance in a navy blazer layered over a vibrant printed blouse while portraying Barbara Howard in Abbott Elementary (Credit: ABC)
The American actress and singer has been a well-known actress and singer in the entertainment industry for several decades.
She is renowned for her historic performances, including her creation of the part of Deena Jones in the Broadway production of “Dreamgirls,” for which she received a Tony Award nomination in 1981.
Maureen J. Reidy, in a cobalt blue wrap dress and nude pointed-toe heels, appears taller than Sheryl Lee Ralph, who stuns in a vibrant geometric print dress and sleek black boots at the 2023 PaleyFest LA (Credit: Faye’s Vision / Cover Images)
In addition to her work on stage, Sheryl has appeared in numerous films and television shows.
Her previous roles include playing Florence Watson in the 1993 film “Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit” and guest appearances on popular TV shows such as “Wonder Woman,” “ER,” and “Criminal Minds.”
Janelle James’ Height: 5’7″ (170.18 cm) – Ava Coleman’s Bold Fashion and Comedic Flair
The talented Black comic Janelle James, who stands 5 feet and 7 inches (170.18 cm) tall, brings her unique skills to the character of series villain Ava Coleman, the ludicrously incompetent principal of Abbott Elementary School.
Janelle’s character is hilariously vengeful and somewhat annoying. She never misses an opportunity to disparage the hardworking educators at her school.
While some may compare her character to Michael Scott from “The Office,” Janelle infuses her distinct flair with the zany and inexperienced manager role.
Janelle James, who stands 5 feet 7 inches tall, brings flair to her role as Ava Coleman in Abbott Elementary, wearing a cozy belted maroon knit dress paired with sleek waves and a confident smile (Credit: ABC)
Before landing her role on Abbott Elementary, Janelle primarily focused on stand-up and sketch comedy.
However, her performance as Ava Coleman has opened doors for her as a guest star on other shows like the animated sitcom “Tuca & Bertie.”
Janelle James turns heads in a bold magenta Elie Saab wrap gown with a thigh-high slit, styled with gleaming gold metallic Prada platform heels, at the 2023 Writers Guild Awards West Coast Ceremony held March 5 at Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles (Credit: Faye’s Vision / Cover Images)
The accomplished actress and comedian also appeared on Netflix and performed at Montreal’s prestigious Just for Laughs festival.
She has also contributed writing to several acclaimed TV programs, including “Corporate” and “Black Monday.”
Tyler James Williams’ Height: 5’8½” (174 cm) – From Everybody Hates Chris to Gregory Eddie
Tyler James Williams, who stands 5 feet and 8 ½ inches tall, brings his comedic talents to the character of Gregory Eddie in Abbott Elementary.
Tyler’s character, Gregory, is a substitute first-grade teacher who eventually lands a permanent position at the school. Despite his disappointment at not being selected for the school administrator role, Gregory remains committed to his students and their education.
Tyler James Williams, who stands 5 feet 8½ inches tall, brings charm and precision to his role as Gregory Eddie in Abbott Elementary, sporting a smart navy dress shirt, patterned tie, and tailored slacks in the classroom (Credit: ABC)
Tyler’s deadpan reactions as Gregory perfectly complement the show’s mockumentary style, drawing laughs from viewers with his subtle expressions.
The 30-year-old actor has been acting since he was a child, and has appeared on “Saturday Night Live” and various other TV shows.
Tyler James Williams looks sharp in a tailored black suit with sleek leather Chelsea boots at the 2023 PaleyFest LA, held at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood (Credit: Faye’s Vision / Cover Images)
Tyler’s portrayal of Chris in the sitcom “Everybody Hates Chris” catapulted him to fame, earning him critical acclaim and a loyal fan base.
Tyler has also had leading roles in notable TV projects, including the role of Leo on Disney’s “Lab Rats” and a role on AMC’s “The Walking Dead.”
Chris Perfetti’s Height: 5’11” (180 cm) – Stylish History Teacher With a Theater Background
Chris Perfetti is a seasoned actor known for his theater, film, and television work. He is 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm) tall.
In Abbott Elementary, Chris plays Jacob Hill, a kind-hearted sixth-grade history teacher who always supports Janine’s off-beat schemes to improve the school.
Chris Perfetti, who stands 5 feet 11 inches tall, embraces scholarly charm as history teacher Jacob Hill in a mustard corduroy blazer layered over a navy plaid shirt and school lanyard (Credit: ABC)
Despite his somewhat awkward nature, Jacob is always there to help and offer a dose of realism to Janine’s idealistic plans.
Although Chris has appeared in numerous plays, films, and TV shows, his “Abbott Elementary” role is his series breakout role.
The 34-year-old actor has previously appeared in Stephen Karam’s play “Sons of the Prophet” and the 2020 drama film “Surrogate.” He also guest-starred in the HBO series “Looking” and had a recurring role in the television show “In the Dark.”
Chris Perfetti makes a bold style statement in a sharp Richard James suit, black Paul Smith turtleneck, and glossy Christian Louboutin heels at the 54th annual NAACP Image Awards, held February 25, 2023, at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium in Pasadena, California (Credit: Koi Sojer / Startraksphoto / Cover Images)
Chris also showed off his comedic chops as Kyle in a memorable guest role on the hit show “What We Do in the Shadows.”
William Stanford Davis’ Height: 5’11” (180 cm) – Eccentric Janitor With a Conspiracy Twist
William Stanford Davis, who stands 5 feet and 11 inches (180 cm) tall, plays Mr. Johnson, the school’s slightly strange but unquestionably competent janitor.
Mr. Johnson is an eccentric character devoted to surprising conspiracy theories. Despite his quirks, he is one of the most intelligent characters on the show.
William’s character was promoted from a guest role to a full-fledged primary cast member in season two.
William Stanford Davis, who stands 5 feet 11 inches tall, portrays the conspiracy-loving custodian Mr. Johnson in his signature sage green uniform shirt and school ID badge at Willard R. Abbott Elementary (Credit: ABC)
William is a talented actor with a long list of TV and film credits dating back to the 1990s.
The 71-year-old talent has a commanding presence on screen, and his stage experience as a comedian and musician likely contributed to his ability to captivate an audience.
William Stanford Davis stands tall beside his co-star Quinta Brunson, who stuns in a sculptural floral mini dress and classic black pointed-toe pumps, as the duo attends the 74th annual Primetime Emmy Awards Performers Nominee Reception held on September 9, 2022, at the Television Academy in Los Angeles (Credit: Xavier Collin / ABACA / INSTARimages / Cover Images)
William has proved his versatility as an actor through various roles in movies and TV series, such as in 1998’s “City of Angels,” as the character Potato Pie in “Ray Donovan,” and in “Snowpiercer” as Mr. Riggs.
In addition to his acting credits, William directed a short film 2014 titled “I’m Sorry Samantha.”
More Fashion Moments From the Cast of Abbott Elementary
From red carpet events to television appearances, the cast of Abbott Elementary consistently showcases impeccable style. Explore some of their most memorable fashion moments:
Taraji P. Henson’s Guest Appearance as Janine’s Mother
- Episode: Season 2, Episode 21 titled “Mom”
- Outfit: Taraji P. Henson made a striking entrance in a sculptural grey Marc Jacobs dress with dramatic sleeves resembling octopus tentacles.
- Footwear: She completed the look with towering 8-inch purple platform boots, adding a bold touch to her ensemble.
- Read more: Taraji P. Henson’s stunning fashion moments on Abbott Elementary
Quinta Brunson’s Stunning Purple Gown at the 2022 TIME100 Gala
- Event: 2022 TIME100 Gala
- Outfit: Quinta Brunson wore a stunning purple Dolce & Gabbana gown that was a masterclass in sartorial balance. Its curve-hugging, asymmetrical design blended sensuality and sophistication. The rich purple hue and elegant silhouette highlighted her bold and fearless fashion sense.
- Footwear: While mostly concealed, her heels likely echoed the elegance of her gown, completing one of her most memorable red carpet looks.
- Style Moment: Quinta made her red carpet debut with husband Kevin Jay Anik, who complemented her in a classic black tuxedo with a bowtie. Their chemistry underscored their appearance, making it even more iconic.
Sheryl Lee Ralph’s Vibrant Orange Gown at the NAACP Image Awards
- Event: 2023 NAACP Image Awards
- Outfit: Sheryl Lee Ralph turned heads in a vibrant orange gown with a structured bodice and flowing skirt.
Sheryl Lee Ralph stuns in a vibrant beaded orange mermaid gown with ruffled sleeves and a dramatic train at the 54th NAACP Image Awards held February 25, 2023, at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium in Pasadena, California (Credit: Koi Sojer / Startraksphoto / Cover Images)
Lisa Ann Walter’s Bold Red Look at the 2025 Abbott Elementary Emmy FYC Event
- Event: Los Angeles Official Emmy FYC Event and Finale Screening of Abbott Elementary
- Outfit: Lisa Ann Walter turned heads in a fiery red buttoned dress with a plunging neckline and structured shoulders, creating a striking and confident silhouette.
- Footwear: She completed the bold look with black Belle platform sandals by D’Accori, adding height and edge to her vibrant ensemble.
- Style Moment: Held on April 15, 2025, at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, the event showcased Walter’s flair for statement style, which combines classic glam with a contemporary attitude.
Lisa Ann Walter wows in a fiery red ensemble and black Belle platform sandals by D’Accori at the Los Angeles Official Emmy FYC Event and Finale Screening of Abbott Elementary, held April 15, 2025, at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures (Credit: Faye’s Vision / Cover Images)
These fashion moments highlight the impeccable style of the Abbott Elementary cast, both on and off the screen.