Quinta Brunson, the creator and star of the critically acclaimed comedy “Abbott Elementary,” is deliberately pacing her expansion behind the camera. While enjoying immense success as a writer and performer, Brunson has, for now, opted not to direct episodes of her show, a decision she recently explained while accepting the Variety Showrunner Award at SCAD TVfest on .
The conversation, moderated by Variety in partnership with SCAD TVfest, featured a candid discussion with Brunson and her “Abbott Elementary” co-star, Sheryl Lee Ralph. Ralph, who introduced Brunson, lauded her as a uniquely gifted leader. “There are a lot of talented people in the industry — and she is talented,” Ralph said. “There are a lot of gifted people in the industry—and Quinta is gifted. But Quinta is also something we don’t often find. She is rare.” Ralph emphasized Brunson’s impact on the show’s enduring positive atmosphere, noting that the cast continues to enjoy each other’s company even after five seasons.
Brunson’s comments underscored a commitment to honing her foundational skills. “The ‘Abbott’ pilot is a result of me focusing on my craft,” she stated. “If I didn’t sit there and learn how to properly write a pilot, how to do a three-act structure, none of this would’ve happened. I know there’s so many other ways to make it big and get famous and blah, blah, blah, but man, that craft will gift you all of this.” This dedication to the fundamentals, she believes, was instrumental in achieving the show’s success.
The decision not to direct isn’t a matter of capability, but rather a strategic one rooted in the demands of her multiple roles. Brunson acknowledged the taxing nature of directing, outlining the extensive time commitment required for preparation, meetings, shooting, editing, and delivering a final cut. She expressed concern about the impact on the writing process, explaining, “When we have writers do it, we lose them in the room for like four weeks, and it hurts. I can’t afford to lose me in the room.”
This sentiment highlights a broader challenge within the television industry: the pressure on showrunners to wear multiple hats. While many creators successfully balance writing, producing, and directing, Brunson has identified a point where dividing her focus would compromise the core strength of “Abbott Elementary” – its writing. Her priority remains firmly centered on the script and the collaborative environment within the writers’ room.
Ralph, a veteran of the entertainment industry, offered a stark assessment of the challenges facing aspiring creatives. “If you think this is difficult, if you think this is hard, please find another occupation,” she told the audience. “None of what we do is for the faint of heart. It is very difficult exposing your raw feeling and talent, your art, to people to have it rejected over and over and over again.” Her words underscored the resilience and dedication required to thrive in a competitive field.
Brunson’s comments come at a time when the role of the showrunner is under increasing scrutiny. The demand for original content has led to a surge in responsibilities for those at the helm of television series, often requiring them to oversee all aspects of production. Brunson’s deliberate choice to prioritize writing reflects a growing awareness of the need for sustainable creative practices and a recognition that specialization can be a key to maintaining quality.
Interestingly, reports surfaced in July 2025 indicating Brunson is looking toward the future and considering roles that allow her to stretch creatively. According to a post on Reddit, Brunson expressed a desire to move beyond her role in “Abbott Elementary” and explore acting opportunities that allow her to play against type. She also indicated that several cast members are eager to pursue other projects, suggesting a potential evolution for the show’s ensemble in the coming years.
While the future of “Abbott Elementary” remains bright, Brunson’s current focus is clear: safeguarding the show’s creative core by concentrating on her strengths as a writer. Her decision to refrain from directing, while perhaps unconventional, demonstrates a pragmatic approach to leadership and a deep understanding of the delicate balance required to sustain a successful television series. It’s a testament to her commitment to the craft and a recognition that sometimes, the most impactful contribution isn’t about doing everything yourself, but about empowering others to do their best work.
