Television history is about to be made as the raucous bar owners of Paddy’s Pub prepare to meet the dedicated teachers of Abbott Elementary in an unprecedented two-episode crossover event. The first part of this unique television experiment debuts Jan. 8 at 8:30 pm ET on ABC, with Abbott Elementary Episode 409, directed by Randall Einhorn and written by Garrett Werner. The promotional campaign kicked off with a teaser poster featuring flags from both Paddy’s and Abbott Elementary, accompanied by the tagline “Two Legends. One Epic Class.”
The crossover will bring together the full casts of both shows, including Rob McElhenney, Charlie Day, and Danny DeVito from It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, and Quinta Brunson, Tyler James Williams, and Sheryl Lee Ralph from Abbott Elementary. Chris Perfetti recently revealed the innovative structure of the crossover. “I think I can say they are in an episode of our show, and we are in an episode of their show, and the episode of their show is sort of the behind-the-scenes of what really happened when they were on our show,” he explained to TVInsider.
Perfetti added, filming with the Sunny cast was “surreal,” noting they are “a highly trained ensemble who is so gifted, so generous.” The creative back-and-forth between the production teams generated excitement, with Abbott Elementary executive producers Justin Halpern and Patrick Schumacker elaborated on the development process. “It was kind of a joke at first,” they said, “but then Rob and Charlie came to our writers’ room, and we hashed out some real broad-stroke ideas.” Schumacker added, “They just feel like other guest stars on the show. Obviously, it’s going to have much more depth for ‘Sunny’ fans.”
Kaitlin Olson shared her enthusiasm about bringing the Abbott cast to Paddy’s Pub, telling Variety she had a “very fun” experience filming the crossover episode and was “just excited to get them to just get, like, nasty. They cannot do this at school; they can do this in the bar.” The collaboration has already produced memorable moments behind the scenes. “It was such an honor to be with all of them,” Perfetti added. “They are grade-A comedians. I pride myself on not breaking or ruining takes, but Danny DeVito absolutely ruined me almost in every scene.”
The hype surrounding the crossover announcement became humorous as well; Brunson playfully called out McElhenney in one promotional video. “It feels like we’ve been keeping this secret for so long,” McElhenney said, to which Brunson responded, “So long? Because you… posted a photo spoiling our crossover episode.” While the air date for the It’s Always Sunny installment hasn’t been announced yet, Abbott Elementary’s portion promises to bring together two of television’s most beloved ensembles. Promotions are touting it as “The Greatest Moment in Television History Ever.”
This crossover event signifies more than just clever programming; it reflects the evolution of the sitcom format and the resurgence of the mockumentary style initiated by Abbott Elementary. With their unique blend of humor and heart, both shows have forged distinct identities, making the crossover both exciting and fresh.
Fans are eagerly awaiting the two-hour event, and expectations are high. The collaboration aims to showcase the strengths of both series and offer audiences delights through humor and character dynamics, inviting viewers to experience the best of both worlds. The concept of blending the absurdity of It’s Always Sunny with the heartwarming escapades of Abbott Elementary presents opportunities for unforgettable moments, as two beloved shows come together.
