Although Abbott Elementary’s entire cast of characters are funny and lovable, but some of them have earned more emotional investment from viewers than others. Few audience would worry about Mr. Johnson’s personal life, since the zany janitor seemingly always lands on his feet no matter what goes wrong. In contrast, the sitcom’s cautious heroine, Janine, is extremely sympathetic thanks to her high-strung nature.

Her longtime love interest, Gregory Eddie, is similarly lovable, and Abbott Elementary season 4’s finale, Janine even met Gregory’s father, Martin.

Abbott Elementary Season 4 Brought Back Gregory’s Principal Ambitions

Standing In For Ava Reminded Gregory Of His Career Plan

Janine’s first meeting with Martin went well when she brought out the stoic character’s softer side, much to Gregory’s surprise. Although Abbott Elementary introducing Gregory to Janine’s mother might be a bit more emotionally fraught, Janine and Gregory were in a great place by the end of Abbott Elementary season 4. That being said, the sitcom may have already subtly hinted at the issue that will be their downfall.

However, Gregory proved a superb interim principal and this reminded viewers of his original plans when the series began.

In season 4, episode 19, “Music Class,” Gregory temporarily filled in for Principal Ava after she was fired. Of course, the sitcom’s beloved principal returned to her old role in a few episodes. However, Gregory proved superb in the role and this reminded viewers of his original plans when the series began. In season 1, Gregory wanted to become principal as soon as possible.

How Gregory’s Principal Plans Could Hurt His Relationship With Janine

Abbott Elementary Season 5 May Imperil This Happy Couple

Gregory gradually gave up on his plans to become the principal of Abbott as he realized he loved teaching and wanted to stay in his current role. However, the three episodes where he acted as interim principal saw him go from strength to strength, proving he could be a great principal with some practice. While Abbott Elementary season 4’s bittersweet finale didn’t point this out, Gregory’s principal ambitions are directly in opposition to his relationship.

Since he would need to move to another school to become principal without ousting Ava, Gregory may have to break up with Janine or try to work out a long-distance relationship in season 5. Already, season 4 made Gregory leaving the school more likely, as his financial struggles meant he had to get second and third jobs as a delivery man and an Uber driver. Working as a principal elsewhere would be financially sensible, and Gregory is nothing if not sensible.

Can Gregory & Janine's Romance Survive His Principal Ambitions In Abbott Elementary Season 5?

Abbott Elementary’s Creators Are Undecided On Gregory’s Career Plans

Fortunately, viewers need not worry about Janine and Gregory’s future just yet. Season 5 may not even explore this plot thread further, as the showrunners itted in an interview with TheWrap that Gregory’s plot was only intended to subtly sow some seeds for a possible future storyline. Per co-showrunner Patrick Schumacker: “I don’t know if that’s something we’re going to dig into or not, but I certainly think in the episodes you saw, we wanted the audience to think, “This guy is good at this, and this is what he initially wanted to do.”

This reassuring comment proves that, while Gregory may someday make a bid for a principal role elsewhere, it most likely won't be the first thing to occur in season 5 of the series. Janine and Gregory’s happiness in Abbott Elementary season 4 was a rare sight in the world of sitcom couples, where constant conflict is usually the order of the day. It was a welcome surprise to see the series mine laughs out of other sources and keep the central couple stable and happy, so hopefully, Abbott Elementary season 5 can manage the same feat regardless of Gregory’s plans.

Source: TheWrap

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