Tyler James Williams Was ‘Ready’ to Direct His First “Abbott Elementary” Episode: ‘I’d Rather Work with Kids Than Adults’ (Exclusive)

Tyler James Williams Ventures into Directing with First ‘Abbott Elementary’ Episode

Tyler James Williams recently made his directorial debut on the hit show ‘Abbott Elementary’. The 32-year-old star shared his experience in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE. As Williams took on the challenge of directing his first episode of the Emmy Award-winning comedy, which aired on February 5, he reflected on the unexpected challenges he faced while juggling the roles of both actor and director simultaneously. Williams candidly remarked, “[It was] very difficult. I don’t recommend it.”

The multitalented actor elaborated on the complexities of managing dual roles, stating, “It’s a lot to split your brain, I think, and to focus on not only telling the story, but what your piece is to play in telling that story.” Despite the challenges, Williams expressed gratitude for the opportunity, acknowledging that he was prepared for the task but looks forward to focusing on one role at a time in the future. This marks a significant milestone in Williams’ career, showcasing his versatility beyond acting.

In the interview, Williams also shed light on his experience working with child actors on the set of ‘Abbott Elementary’. Contrary to the common notion that working with children may pose challenges, Williams disclosed that he prefers working with young talents over adults in many instances. He highlighted the enthusiasm and dedication of child actors, emphasising that they are focused on delivering their best performance without letting egos come in the way.

Reflecting on directing the young cast members, Williams shared that he found it rewarding to guide and nurture their performances. He mentioned instances where he had to align a group of children to execute pivotal scenes, underlining the joy of witnessing their growth and understanding of the craft. Williams also seized the opportunity to leverage the children’s fresh perspective in shaping certain character dynamics, enhancing the storytelling process.

Drawing from his own experience as a former child actor, Williams empathised with the young performers and recognised their professionalism on set. He emphasised the importance of treating child actors as individuals who are committed to their craft, dispelling misconceptions about their understanding of the industry. Williams recounted a heartfelt moment with a young actor named Lela, praising her dedication and ability to stay in character even during non-verbal moments, showcasing the depth of talent among the budding stars.

As ‘Abbott Elementary’ continues to captivate audiences, Williams’ foray into directing adds a new dimension to his already illustrious career. His passion for storytelling and mentorship shines through in his interactions with the young cast members, setting a positive example for future generations of performers. Williams’ journey exemplifies the creative evolution of artists in the entertainment industry, showcasing versatility and dedication to honing craft in all aspects of production.

To catch Tyler James Williams’ directorial prowess in action, tune in to ‘Abbott Elementary’ airing on Wednesdays at 8:30 p.m. ET on ABC. The show promises not only laughs but also heartfelt moments that resonate with viewers of all ages. Williams’ directorial debut serves as a testament to his growth as an artist and paves the way for new creative opportunities on the horizon.