Interview: William Stanford Davis on Portraying the Beloved Mr. Johnson on ‘Abbott Elementary’

William Stanford Davis’ first acting credit (according to IMDb) is a two-episode arc on The Bold and the Beautiful. Since appearing on the iconic soap in a bit part as a custodian of all things, Mr. Davis has amassed an impressive 98 acting credits. But, it wasn’t until Davis came aboard Quinta Brunson’s Abbott Elementary, as Mr. Johnson, the school head custodian, that his career transformed from respected character actor to beloved sitcom star. And what’s not to love about Mr. Johnson? He’s a bit curmudgeonly, mischievous, and definitely a man of mystery. Beginning in season two, Davis became a series regular on the Emmy-winning ABC hit and has been consistently delivering laughs every episode. Whether he’s scheming with a co-star or bantering with one of Abbott‘s many adorable child actors, Davis is a highlight, bringing a delightful blend of comedy and heart to his award-winning performance as Mr. Johnson.

Davis joins Awards Buzz to discuss his career and tease what’s to come. For Abbott Elementary, Mr. Johnson, and for Mr. Davis himself—an actor always on the hunt for his next challenge and the opportunity to evolve.

New episodes of Abbott Elementary premiere weekly on Wednesdays at 8:30pm on ABC. Stream all past episodes on Hulu.