Warning! Spoilers ahead for Abbott Elementary season 3, episode 5.
Abbott Elementary season 3, episode 5 did have a sad twist, but there's a reason for all these emotional moments. Even though Abbott Elementary is known for its humor, it doesn't shy away from tugging at the audience's heartstrings. In the past seasons, the show teased Janine and Gregory's potential love story for many episodes. However, in the season 3 premiere, their relationship took a heartbreaking turn just when it seemed like they might finally get together.
Abbott Elementary’s Zach/Jacob Breakup Made Season 3 Even Sadder
Janine and Gregory might not become a couple until Abbott Elementary season 4. The show has also added more heartbreak since that surprising premiere twist. In the second part of the premiere, Melissa ended her long-time relationship with Gary the vending machine guy in a painful way. Melissa rejected Gary’s proposal in front of a whole classroom and Philadelphia Eagles' star quarterback, Jalen Hurts. This breakup showed that no couple was safe in season 3. This was confirmed when season 3, episode 5, “Breakup,” ended the show’s oldest relationship.
Jacob Hill (Chris Perfetti) and Janine Teagues (Quinta Brunson) in Abbott Elementary - Abbott Elementary’s Zach/Jacob Breakup Made Season 3 Even Sadder
In an emotional episode titled “Breakup,” Abbott Elementary’s Jacob and Zach decided to end their relationship, which had been ongoing even before the show began. Jacob mentioned in season 1 that they had been together for about a year, and Larry Owens’ character, Zach, first appeared on screen in season 1, episode 11, “Desking.” Besides Barbara’s marriage, Jacob and Zach’s relationship was one of the longest-standing and most stable in the show. Jacob, along with Janine, is known for being cautious among all the characters at Abbott Elementary, while Zach, a meticulous sneaker enthusiast, seemed to be a perfect match for him.
Abbott Elementary Season 3’s Darkest Trend Is Good For The Show
In the latest episode, titled “Breakup”, Jacob finally opens up to Gregory about their unhappy relationship spanning seven months. The show continues to explore the theme of tumultuous relationships, as seen with Janine and Gregory, Melissa and Gary, and now Zach and Jacob. It may seem unusual for a comedy series to focus so much on heartbreak, but Abbott Elementary has a purpose behind its madness. The characters, including Janine, Gregory, Melissa, and Jacob, needed to experience growth and change, and being in stable romantic relationships would have hindered this development.
Janine and Gregory in the Abbott Elementary season 2 episode Holiday Hookah - Abbott Elementary Season 3’s Darkest Trend Is Good For The Show
In the season 3 premiere of Abbott Elementary, Janine and Gregory decided not to date, which was a tough moment for them. However, this allowed Janine to take on a new role in the school district. Meanwhile, Melissa's breakup made her realize that she never wants to get married again, and Jacob's decision to end things with Zach could lead to new opportunities for his character. Jacob, who has been somewhat static as the resident corny teacher in season 2, now has the chance to further develop his role in Abbott Elementary season 3.
Editor's P/S:
The article provides an insightful analysis of the emotional depth that has been added to the third season of Abbott Elementary. While the show is primarily known for its humor, the recent episodes have explored themes of heartbreak and relationship struggles, which has created a more nuanced and relatable narrative. The breakups of Janine and Gregory, Melissa and Gary, and now Jacob and Zach have shaken up the status quo and forced the characters to confront their own growth and vulnerabilities.
This darker trend in the show's storytelling is a testament to the writers' ability to balance humor and pathos effectively. By showcasing the challenges of relationships, Abbott Elementary adds a layer of authenticity and emotional resonance that keeps viewers invested in the characters' journeys. It also highlights the importance of personal growth and the need to embrace change, even when it's painful. While the breakups may be sad, they ultimately serve as catalysts for the characters' development and provide the show with a fresh and emotionally engaging direction for the remainder of season 3.