Abbott Elementary Season 3’s Secret Cameo Hinted At An Exciting New Melissa Story

Summary

• Cameos in Abbott Elementary focus on character development, not just star power.
• Romantic relationships have faced turmoil in season 3, with Melissa rejecting a marriage proposal.
• Mike O’Malley’s return as a firefighter could signal a new romantic subplot for Melissa.

While Abbott Elementary season 3, episode 4 almost hid one cameo, this character’s return could be exciting news for a supporting star. Abbott Elementary has plenty of cameos, but the show typically uses these to flesh out its characters instead of simply adding big names to the cast list. Taraji P. Henson played Janine’s mother in one season 2 outing, but instead of her character dominating the episode’s action, the plot mostly centered on how unreliable she was and the emotional impact this had on Janine. Similarly, the season 3 premiere’s Jalen Hurts cameo proved surprisingly central to the plot.

While Abbott Elementary season 4 might take a different direction, season 3 has been a bloodbath when it comes to the show’s romantic pairings. Abbott Elementary’s Zach and Jacob ended their relationship in episode 5, “Breakup,” while Gregory told a devastated Janine that he thought she wanted to put a period on their feelings in the premiere. As if this weren’t bad enough, the same episode saw Melissa’s sweet love interest Gary finally ask her to marry him. Gary got Jalen Hurts to pop the question during a live-streamed conversation on the school’s career day, but this didn’t go well.

Mike O’Malley’s Character Returned In Abbott Elementary Season 3 Episode 4

The Glee star appeared in Abbott Elementary season 2

Melissa turned down Gary’s marriage proposal and the pair broke up afterward in a scene that proved no couple was safe in Abbott Elementary season 3. However, although most of Abbott Elementary’s cast of characters are now nursing a broken heart, there is hope for Melissa, and this comes in the form of a secret cameo a few episodes later. Mike O’Malley’s firefighter returned in Abbott Elementary season 3 and flirted with Melissa, revisiting a storyline subtly set up in season 2, episode 15, “Fire.” In that outing, O’Malley’s firefighter gave a safety demonstration to the school and struck up a rapport with Melissa.

In his new cameo, Melissa and O’Malley’s character bonded over their taste in nostalgic cigarettes. While the rest of this Abbott Elementary episode was dedicated to parodying PSAs, this scene made it clear that O’Malley’s firefighter was still interested in Melissa. The attraction appeared to be mutual for the newly single teacher, who got atypically shy while talking to the firefighter. From the looks of things, a romantic subplot could be in the cards.

What Mike O’Malley’s Comeback Could Mean For Abbott Elementary’s Melissa

Abbott Elementary’s supporting star is now single again

Since Melissa did break up with Gary in pretty spectacular fashion, it is hard to tell if she is in a place to try another romantic relationship. Melissa’s breakup might stop her from pursuing O’Malley’s character, but this would be a shame for the show. A screen veteran, O’Malley has been seen in everything from Glee to Parks and Recreation to BojackHorseman. He would be a fitting addition to the cast of Abbott Elementary, having starred in sitcoms such as Yes Dear and The Mike O’Malley Show for years. As such, Abbott Elementary should give this romance a chance.