Theory: Here's why an Abbott Elementary/It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia crossover episode could work

Earlier this summer at San Diego Comic-Con, our fave Quinta Brunson, who is the creator of Abbott Elementary and plays teacher Janine Teagues, teased that there's an "interesting crossover" episode coming in season 4 that's "really exciting" and will "change television as we know it." Of course since she said that, us fans have been thinking about what it could be because she didn't share who or what it is.

Crossover episodes are always fun because if you're watching two shows on a network and see the characters collide, it's really awesome as a viewer! Brunson shared that this crossover is going to be unique and different, and that got the gears turning in my head. Now look, my theory is a bit out there. But just here me out.

It's Always Sunny in Abbott Elementary has a nice ring to it, right?

What if this crossover episode involves Abbott Elementary and It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia? "It's Always Sunny in Abbott Elementary" kind of has a nice ring to it, doesn't it? Alright let's list off some reasons why we think this could definitely work if the two shows came together. The first is obvious in that both comedies take place in the same city, Philadelphia.

Not only that, they're both sitcoms and take place at the same time. It's not like one is set in the '80s and the other follows today's timeline. They both exist in 2024. In It's Alway Sunny, the unruly and no boundaries gang have been at schools before. It wouldn't be difficult to get them at Abbott Elementary!

Can you just imagine the horrified looks on Barbara's face from the group's actions? Though if it's going to air on ABC, they definitely need to tone down Charlie, Mac, Dennis, Dee, and Frank. Though I'm sure they'd still find a way to traumatize Barbara. I bet Melissa and Ava would be amused by them. And a religious Mac would judge Jacob for being gay. Though perhaps the teacher will be able to educate Mr. Ronald McDonald and change his mindset.

I really think it would be a hilarious crossover, and definitely fits the bill of it being something that's never been done before. And while Abbott Elementary is on ABC and It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia is on FX - two different networks - they're both owned by the same company. And that would be Disney. So there's no issues there.

Both shows also take place in not so great neighborhoods. In a recent interview with TVLine, Brunson shared that in Abbott Elementary season 4, there's a "looming change" in the neighborhood where the school is located. Here's what she told the news outlet:

"There’s this larger, looming change happening in the neighborhood where Abbott is, essentially, located, and we’re seeing the impact of that on our school."

Maybe the characters of both sitcoms live in the same neighborhood and it's getting gentrified. And they either have to deal with that together, or team up to try and stop it. Something along those lines. I'm telling you guys, this crossover could definitely happen.

I don't think it's likely, it's a wild theory. But it's fun to think about and I kind of have my heart set on it now. And, hey. If Brunson or anyone from ABC or FX is reading this and like my idea, I give you full permission to run with it and make it happen. I would love that. What do you think about the Abbott/It's Always Sunny crossover theory?

Abbott Elementary season 4 premieres Wednesday, Oct. 9, 2024 on ABC. It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia season 17 is currently in the works at FX.