ONSCREEN AND OFF: CHRIS PERFETTI'S PATHOS AND PLAYFULNESS

BY IRVIN RIVERA

CHRIS PERFETTI, known for his compelling portrayal of Jacob Hill on "Abbott Elementary," embodies the confluence of humor, dedication, and transformative storytelling that defines the celebrated show. As he navigates the bustling schedule of Season 3, Perfetti also finds solace in the serene landscapes of Southern California, a refreshing change from his New York upbringing. This balance of intense work and moments of tranquility mirrors the depth and dynamics of "Abbott Elementary" itself—a series praised for its authentic representation and poignant narrative. Perfetti's reflections on the show's impact resonate deeply: "To be honest, the response has been simultaneously incredibly gratifying and completely overwhelming," highlighting the rare alignment of success in network television. This sentiment underscores the profound connection between the actor and the series, showcasing the transformative power of storytelling that goes beyond mere entertainment.

Delving into the essence of his character, Perfetti reveals a nuanced blending of life and art, where the persona of Jacob Hill coexists with his own. This journey from viewing Jacob as an enthusiastic, idealistic figure to recognizing their shared traits exemplifies Perfetti's immersive approach to his role. Behind the scenes, the camaraderie among the cast and the professionalism of the show's youngest stars shine, challenging conventional wisdom about working with children. Perfetti's experiences on "Abbott Elementary" reflect a broader narrative of growth, collaboration, and the impact of authentic storytelling. "I’m the luckiest boy in puppetland," Perfetti shares, echoing a sentiment of gratitude that permeates his work and life. This feature invites readers to explore the layers of Chris Perfetti's journey—an actor whose dedication to his craft and role in "Abbott Elementary" offer a compelling glimpse into the art of storytelling and the personal transformations that accompany it.

PHOTOGRAPHER: SILVINO FELICIANO, FASHION STYLING: ASHLEY STERN, GROOMING: DUSTIN OSBORNE, PRODUCER: JESSE ZAPATERO

Hi Chris! How are you? Thank you for your time! What’s keeping you busy recently?

Heyo. Living the dream, baby. We are in the thick of Season 3 so the majority of my day is built around prepping and shooting that but definitely finding moments to be VERY QUIET and enjoy the marvels of SoCal…I’m a native New Yorker so still very much in the honeymoon phase of California.

"Abbott Elementary" has been praised for its representation and storytelling. How do you feel about being part of a show that's making such an impact to its audience and beyond?

To be honest, the response has been simultaneously incredibly gratifying and completely overwhelming. I think actors get very used to having a thick skin and things not working out…there are so many factors involved in a new project and for all of those things to be in alignment is honestly pretty rare. But when it DOES happen, especially on a network tv show, I won’t lie- it’s a nice feeling. In terms of representation all I can say is our show is based on real life, get into it. *wink*

Pinstripe Trench Coat Set: Beeombi Button Down Jacket: The Hundreds Shoes: Camper

Working in a comedy series like "Abbott Elementary," how do you find the balance between delivering humor and addressing the more serious aspects of the show's themes?

While comedy is definitely our number one priority, I continue to marvel at how much pathos the show can hold. The innocence of the kids and the determination of the teachers naturally sort of invites it in. I think Quinta also knows very well that comedy is an effective vehicle to talk about bigger things in the world and, hopefully while your mouth is open laughing, we can shove a message in there too. It doesn't take much to delineate between the two for us actors I don't think, the humor and the drama are baked into the show’s DNA and so it really just depends on if we write a punchline or not.

What has been the most challenging scene to shoot for "Abbott Elementary," and why? How did you rise above the challenges?

The toughest scenes without a doubt take place in the gym. They’re usually these ambitious ‘oners’ with lots of people, lots of fancy camera work (and lots of caffeine). There is a beautiful chaos that happens when all the instruments are playing and they’re typically my favorite scenes to work on.

How do you relate personally to your character Jacob in "Abbott Elementary"? Are there any traits or experiences you both share?

Ya know I began working on Abbott not really thinking we were alike at all…mostly just thrilled to play this enthusiastic, loyal, idealistic clown (I’m typically cast as these darker, brooding, tragic figures), but, honestly, one of the cool things about creating a character no one’s played before (and getting to play them for so long) is you get to kind of assume that they ARE you and you are them, in a way. Also I’ve learned you can’t really lie in front of the camera, so yeah, the line has sort of blurred at this point and he just kind of coexists alongside me now. I also trust that Quinta saw in me the necessary characteristics of her ‘Jacob’. I certainly aspire to be even remotely as well-intentioned and determined and blissfully naive as he is.

How has your background and previous acting experiences influenced your portrayal of your character, Jacob Hill in "Abbott Elementary”?

I think working on plays in New York really instilled the power of ensemble in me, how to just tell the story collectively. A rehearsal room also really teaches you to be very prepared but not precious, which I think is super helpful for this job because we work very quickly. Growing up on the east coast and hating elementary school probably also played a part.

Jacket: Kristina K, Sweater & Pants : One of These Days, Shoes: Doc Marten, Socks: The Hundreds

In what ways has your character evolved since the first season, and how have you adapted to these changes?

It’s been fun to see Mr. Hill win this season; I feel like we’re laughing less at him and more with him. I also feel like having some of the more important relationships ripped away from him this year really activates the character in a deeper way that has been fun to play. Don’t get me wrong- it’s a sitcom, and having Jacob do a 180 overnight would probably kill the comedy, but our writers have done such a good job of making these teachers three-dimensional, complex and multifaceted- it’s a “documentary” after all.

Can you share a memorable behind-the-scenes moment from "Abbott Elementary" that fans would be surprised to know about?

The ole showbiz adage about “never working with children or animals” comes to mind and I think people would be surprised to learn that the kids are actually incredible and very professional and well-behaved and into what we’re doing there (for the most part). Some of them have been around since the pilot and watching them move up a grade with each passing season has been an unexpectedly moving part of the whole thing. Shout out to Jacob’s graduating class of 2024!

How do you stay grounded and maintain a sense of self amidst the success and attention "Abbott Elementary" has brought?

Not sure, got any tips? Just kidding. I’d like to believe I’ve gotten pretty good, mostly out of necessity, at insulating myself from the chatter. Especially while were in production, I hibernate. Also to be completely corny the kids really help. The experience of being on a set used to be mildly torturous to me. I’m tormented by the permanence of it all; whatever happens in those few takes is how it will live. Forever. The theatre freak in me simply can’t reconcile that. But the kids, honestly, kind of ground you because their proximity to fun and make-believe is contagious. They are this gentle reminder of what we (actors) are all going there. Playing.

Vest & Button down: One of These Days, Pants & T-shirt: The Hundreds, Hat: Stellaxingyi, Shoes: Golf Le Fleur x Converse

What's the most rewarding aspect of being part of "Abbott Elementary" for you, personally?

Getting to act every day. Meeting teachers who say the show means something to them. Working with Quinta.

How do you approach building chemistry with your castmates, especially in scenes that require a high level of comedic timing and rapport?

It helps, I think, that I am genuinely in awe of the talent and generosity and grace and wit and dedication of the people I work with- that really does a lot of the leg work now. I really like them as people. And artists. And so it organically just makes our work together easier and deeper. But that said, I knew it on day one of the pilot too…and that my friends is a bit mysterious and cosmic and ineffable. An ensemble either got it, or they don’t.

With the show's critical and commercial success, how do you handle the expectations for future seasons?

I don’t pay those bitches no mind.

"Abbott Elementary" tackles important themes related to education. Has being part of the show changed your perspective on the educational system in any way?

For sure. It’s been a wild, sort of karmic rollercoaster playing a teacher because school was a very mixed bag for me. Being steeped in the world of these characters (and being an adult, I suppose) really opens your eyes to how gorgeously difficult being a teacher is. I wont say I know what it’s like, but I see you!

How do you hope your character's journey will inspire or impact the audience?

I hope people will see Jacob as a role model. I hope certain folx will be inspired to be actors and teachers. But mostly I hope we make you laugh.

Are there any particular themes or stories you hope "Abbott Elementary" will explore in future episodes or seasons?

Education is obviously this massive umbrella and I fear my sensibility may be too political for network tv but I think any way in which we can (subtly) dig at the hypocrisy of this beautiful bumbling country, illuminate its perfect imperfections, I’m all about. That is an artist’s job after all.

Outside of "Abbott Elementary," what types of roles or projects are you most interested in pursuing?

*BORING ANSWER ALERT*

I’m really… sadly…predictably… just a sucker for good writing. It’s my food. My north star. I’ll go anywhere, play anyone, if it tickles me and there are great characters/good storytelling.

Who are some actors or creators in the industry you admire and would love to work and create with in

the future?

I would like Östlund to direct a film where Tilda Swinton plays my mother; an aging hippie cult leader. I wanna act with everyone, it is my favorite thing to do and there are so many damn good ones.

As "Abbott Elementary" continues to grow in popularity, how do you hope it influences the conversation around public education and entertainment's role in societal issues?

I hope for nothing less than a complete revolution in the way we think about education in this country (Hey, a guy can dream).

How do you approach learning and growth, both professionally and personally?

Safe to say both are pretty important to me. I’d like to contribute something to society by telling stories and in order to that I have to become the best actor I can be. It took going to drama school for me to thrive in an educational setting, and now, in my thirties, I have an appetite for learning like never before. I’ve always enjoyed that aspect of this craft, you become an expert on so many things in order to do your work. Career-wise I will chalk that up to the gods but I’ve always believed my time on the planet has something to do with learning lessons and evolving and multiplying the consciousness.

Can you share any upcoming projects or ambitions you have outside of "Abbott Elementary”?

I’m in the process of tapping the great FONT of brilliant playwrights I’ve worked with in New York to develop ideas they or I have. My favorite writers are playwrights, and they are used to working for no money so that’s good. Just kidding, PAY ARTISTS

What’s a valuable lesson that you’ve learned that you always carry with you?

I’m the luckiest boy in puppetland and I’ve gotten a lot of good advice so it’s hard to pick… but Ellen Burstyn once told me that “no one has the right to validate you but your own deepest self” and that is the simple, friendly maxim to which I aspire.

Finally, if you were a book, what book would you be and why?

I’d be a first edition. *insert meme of Hilary Duff texting* Or like vintage erotica or some shit.