Janelle James on Fifth Emmy Nomination for Abbott Elementary, Comedy Idols & Dealing with Hecklers

Janelle James is having quite the moment! The hilarious Abbott Elementary star stopped by to chat about scoring her fifth Emmy nomination for her unforgettable role as the unapologetically fabulous Principal Ava Coleman. But while Emmy night may be glamorous, Janelle jokingly revealed that she has already perfected her “losing face” just in case the award goes elsewhere!

Before becoming one of television’s funniest leading ladies, Janelle spent the last 15 years sharpening her skills on the stand-up comedy circuit, performing everywhere from small comedy clubs to biker bars. Inspired by comedy legends like Richard Pryor and the incomparable Lucille Ball, she opened for some of the biggest names in comedy, including Amy Schumer, Chris Rock, David Cross and more.

Janelle also shared how she landed her career-changing role on Abbott Elementary, auditioning remotely during the pandemic and having no idea at the time just how massive the show would become. From bombing onstage and dealing with unforgettable hecklers to eventually finding herself at the Emmys, her journey has certainly been one for the books!

And there’s even more laughter on the way! Janelle recently filmed her upcoming Netflix comedy special, which is set to arrive this fall. The special takes a hilariously unexpected look at the subject of murder, true crime and everything in between. If anyone can make even the darkest subject matter funny, it’s definitely Janelle James!

With Abbott Elementary continuing to be a fan favorite and another Emmy nomination under her belt, this comedy queen is proving that the fifth time just might be the charm!