What makes Mr. Johnson, the custodian on Abbott Elementary, such a unique character?

Mr. Johnson, played by veteran actor William Stanford Davis, is an eccentric and honest character that many viewers can relate to from their own lives, with a few quirky ways that make him stand out.

How has William Stanford Davis brought the character of Mr. Johnson to life on Abbott Elementary?

Davis draws from his own family's eccentrics to portray Mr. Johnson as a fully realized, human character, rather than a caricature. He focuses on the character's honesty and relatability to make him resonate with the audience.

What does William Stanford Davis hope to see for Mr. Johnson's future on Abbott Elementary?

Davis teases the possibility of Mr. Johnson finding a love interest, which he envisions as a contrast to the character's quirky persona at the school. He also hints at potential storylines that could explore Mr. Johnson's life outside of the school.

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Veteran Actor Brings Eccentric Custodian to Life on Abbott Elementary

5 Aug

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Summary

Mr. Johnson, a quirky custodian, was initially a guest character but became a fan favorite
Actor William Stanford Davis draws from his own family's eccentrics to portray the honest, human character
Davis shares hopes for Mr. Johnson's love life and teases hilarious moments in upcoming season

Veteran Actor Brings Eccentric Custodian to Life on Abbott Elementary

In a recent interview, veteran actor William Stanford Davis, who plays the eccentric custodian Mr. Johnson on the hit TV series Abbott Elementary, reveals how he has brought the character to life and become a fan favorite.

Davis explains that Mr. Johnson was initially intended to be a guest character, but the audience's enthusiastic response to his performance in the pilot episode led the show's creator, Quinta Brunson, to expand the role. Davis believes Mr. Johnson's honesty and relatability as an "eccentric" character that many viewers can recognize from their own lives have resonated with the audience.

Looking ahead to the upcoming fifth season, Davis shares his hopes for Mr. Johnson, including the possibility of the character finding a love interest. He envisions Mr. Johnson as a bit of a "pushover" in a relationship, in contrast to his quirky persona at the school. Davis also teases that viewers may get a glimpse into Mr. Johnson's life outside of the school, hinting at potential storylines involving his family.

Furthermore, Davis discusses his own acting journey, noting that his experience in dramatic roles has helped him develop the comedic timing and subtlety required for the Mr. Johnson character. He emphasizes the importance of keeping the character grounded and honest, rather than veering into caricature.

The article also touches on Davis' recent experience working with veteran actor Danny DeVito in a crossover episode with It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, which he describes as a "really enlightening experience" that reinforced the value of taking risks as an actor.

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