10 Must-Watch Janelle James Movies And TV Shows That Prove She's More Than Just 'Ava Coleman'

Janelle James has exploded onto the mainstream comedy and acting scene, captivating audiences with her unique brand of hilarious, deadpan delivery and scene-stealing confidence. As of today, December 10, 2025, she remains one of the most talked-about comedians in Hollywood, largely thanks to her phenomenal, award-nominated work on a hit network comedy series.

While most fans know her as the chaotic, meme-worthy Principal Ava Coleman from *Abbott Elementary*, her career is a rich tapestry of stand-up brilliance, voice acting, and memorable supporting roles. This article dives deep into her complete filmography, highlighting the essential movies and TV shows that define her journey from the comedy club circuit to a globally recognized star.

Janelle James: Biography and Career Milestones

Janelle James is an American comedian, actress, and writer known for her sharp wit and distinctive stage presence. Her journey in comedy began in the late 2000s, setting the stage for her later success in television.

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• Full Name: Janelle James
• Born: September 23, 1979
• Birthplace: St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands (raised in the US)
• Occupation: Comedian, Actress, Writer
• Career Start: Began her career at an open mic in Champaign, Illinois, around 2009
• Comedy Album: Released her debut comedy album, Black and Mild, in 2017
• Industry Recognition: Named one of Variety's 10 Comics to Watch for 2020
• Notable Awards & Nominations:
  • Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Award Winner (for Ensemble in a Comedy Series)
  • NAACP Image Award Winner (2023) for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series
  • Golden Globe Award Nominee for Best Supporting Actress in a Series
  • Critics' Choice Television Award Nominee (2022, 2023, 2024, 2025)
  • Emmy Award Nominee (2025)
• Personal Life: She has two sons

The Definitive Janelle James Filmography: From Stand-Up to Hollywood

While her role as Ava Coleman is her most prominent, Janelle James has built a solid career across different mediums. Her filmography includes writing, voice acting, and various live-action roles, demonstrating her versatility as a performer.

1. Abbott Elementary (2021–Present)

This is the role that cemented James as a household name. She plays Principal Ava Coleman, the hilariously self-absorbed and unqualified principal of an underfunded Philadelphia public school. Her character’s outrageous antics and perfect comedic timing have earned her critical acclaim, including multiple Emmy, Golden Globe, and Critics' Choice nominations, with nominations extending into the 2025 awards season. The show itself is a massive hit, and James is arguably its breakout star.

2. The Garfield Movie (2024)

In a move that highlights her growing presence in major motion pictures, Janelle James lent her voice to the animated film The Garfield Movie, released in 2024. This project showcases her ability to transition her comedic voice work from television to the big screen, expanding her reach to family audiences.

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3. Kite Man: Hell Yeah! (2024)

Continuing her work in animation, James is part of the voice cast for the TV show *Kite Man: Hell Yeah!*. This role further diversifies her portfolio, moving into the adult animation space and demonstrating her appeal across various genres of comedy.

4. Life & Beth (2022–Present)

James appeared in the Hulu comedy series *Life & Beth*, starring Amy Schumer. This role allowed her to showcase her acting chops in a more grounded, character-driven comedy, proving she can shine outside of the broad sitcom format of *Abbott Elementary*.

5. The Stand Ups (2018)

Before her massive TV success, Janelle James was a respected stand-up comedian. Her half-hour special was featured in Season 3 of the Netflix series *The Stand Ups*. Watching this special is essential for fans who want to see the pure, unfiltered comedic persona that she developed on the road.

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6. Central Park (2020–2022)

Another significant voice acting role in her career was on the animated musical comedy series *Central Park*. Her work here contributed to her reputation as a reliable and dynamic voice performer in the world of animated television.

7. Black Monday (2019–2021)

James served as both a writer and actor for the Showtime series *Black Monday*. This dual role is a testament to her skills not just as a performer, but as a creative force behind the scenes, shaping the comedy she delivers.

8. Monsters at Work (2021)

Adding a major franchise to her resume, James lent her voice to the Disney+ series *Monsters at Work*, a spin-off of the beloved Pixar film *Monsters, Inc.*. This project further solidified her status in high-profile animation.

9. Tom of Your Life (2020)

In 2020, James appeared in the film *Tom of Your Life*. While a smaller role, this movie appearance is part of the foundational work that led to her later, more visible success.

10. Janelle James: Black and Mild (2017)

Although an album, her debut comedy recording *Black and Mild* is a crucial piece of her filmography, as it is the original source material for her distinct comedic voice. It’s a must-listen for anyone studying her career trajectory.

The Future of Janelle James’s Career

Janelle James’s career is currently on a major upward trajectory, anchored by the continued success of *Abbott Elementary* and her recurring award nominations. Her ability to blend cutting-edge stand-up comedy with mainstream acting roles makes her a powerful and unique figure in entertainment.

Fans can expect to see her continue her reign as the incomparable Ava Coleman, a role that has earned her a Screen Actors Guild Award and countless accolades. Furthermore, her recent work in major animated features like *The Garfield Movie* suggests she will be a sought-after voice actress for years to come. Her next career moves are eagerly anticipated, whether they involve another stand-up special or a leading role in a new feature film.

The transition from a respected comedian to an Emmy-nominated television star has been complete and total. Janelle James is not just a comedic talent; she is a significant industry presence whose influence is only growing.