Janelle James says we'll see new layers to Ava on Abbott Elementary season 4

Abbott Elementary is returning with all-new episodes this fall, and ahead of the new season premiere, the creative team and cast reunited at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event to celebrate the series and tease what's to come in Abbott Elementary season 4.

Even though the panelists weren't able to reveal too much, Janelle James shared what she's most excited to see for Principal Ava Coleman's story when school gets back in session. And luckily for Abbott Elementary fans, we're diving into more of Ava's story quickly. Actor Janelle James, who plays Ava on the show, said that season 4 episode 2 will show more of where Ava is going this season.

During the series panel, James spoke about where Ava is headed on the show this year. "I like where she's going," James teased. "I will also say that. Damn, I'm being very cryptic. We're chipping away at her complexities." Principal Ava is known for her big personality and unmatched energy on the show, while typically also having some unorthodox ways of running the school. And James shared that we're going to peel back more of the layers to Ava on Abbott Elementary season 4.

"I've always thought that Ava is complex," James said. "I don't think she's one-note at all. From the first episode till now, I feel like people who truly watch and are paying attention have seen many sides of Ava already. She's not just doing jokes." It's these softer and more emotional sides to Ava that we may see more of this fall. James went on to point out that Ava has always put the kids at Abbott first, but just has a unique way of getting things done for them.

"I've always thought that Ava is complex. I don't think she's one-note at all. From the first episode till now, I feel like people who truly watch and are paying attention have seen many sides of Ava already. She's not just doing jokes."

- Janelle James

James was also quick to point out Ava's success rate for being able to get things done in her own way and how well-liked she is by the students. "She has a great rapport with the kids, she's making things happen in an unorthodox way, but it's happening." She also pointed out that Ava knows she won't get things done if she follows the rule book, saying that if Ava "did do things in the way people would expect her to, nothing gets done."

I think we can expect to learn a lot more about Ava Coleman on season 4, and I'm looking forward to seeing her in situations that are new for the series. Abbott Elementary season 4 premieres Wednesday, October 9 on ABC, and will be available to stream the next day. Catch up on seasons 1-3 now on Disney+ and Hulu!