Could This Be Janelle James’s Emmy Win?

Janelle James - Emma McIntyre

Abbott Elementary actress Janelle James has been predicted to be in for a shot at winning an Emmy in the upcoming awards ceremony later this year.

James is rumored to be the favorite to win the Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series following her performance in the most recent season of Abbott Elementary, the hit mockumentary series from ABC about a struggling elementary school in Philadelphia. James, who plays the sharp-tongued Principal Ava Coleman, has been seen by many as having delivered some of her best work over the recent season, with critics applauding the extra depth and vulnerability she has displayed in the role.

Initially portrayed as an out-of-touch, uncaring figure, season four takes the character through a journey in which she confronts her troubled relationship with her father, and at the close of the season, she is fired from her role due to her taking a bribe. This has given James far more to do with the character and generated widespread speculation amongst fans as to whether she would return.

James would join several cast members to have received Emmys since the series started back in 2021, including Sheryl Lee Ralph, Tyler James Williams, & series creator Quinta Brunson. Ralph is also reported to again be nominated for her role in the series, as is another fellow cast member, Lisa Ann Walter.

Reportedly in the running against James are Liza Colón-Zayas, who won in the same category last year for her role in The Bear, and Hannah Einbinder, for her role in Hacks.

This year’s Emmy Awards are to be held in September, with the nominations expected to be confirmed on Tuesday, July 15, 2025.