Quinta Brunson Honored in West Philadelphia With Key to the City and New School Mural
Quinta Brunson returned to her hometown of West Philadelphia this week for an emotional celebration that honored her roots and growing legacy.
On Wednesday (May 28), the “Abbott Elementary” show creator was awarded a key to the city in a heartfelt ceremony held at her alma mater, Andrew Hamilton School.
“Quinta Brunson, this is your city and you are ours,” said Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker, who presented the honor before a crowd of students, family, local officials, and longtime supporters.
The actress reflected on the moment with deep gratitude, stating, “Even when I first walked in the door, I was like, ‘Oh, I’m home. I’m home. I’m in Philly,’” she said. “This gym felt so big when I was a kid. Being back here really feels like coming home.”
The celebration also featured the unveiling of a new mural on the school’s exterior in partnership with Mural Arts Philadelphia. While the original mockup included characters from the show, the actress insisted that the final piece highlight real community members.
“It was just important to me that the mural incorporated faces from this neighborhood, faces from this school,” she explained.
Before leaving, Brunson had a few more surprises, including pledging $50,000 to two local nonprofits — one supporting music education and another providing fresh groceries to underserved children.
The star also confirmed the fifth season of “Abbott Elementary” was officially underway. “We just started in the writers’ room last week,” she shared. “I’m really excited about what’s coming next.”
