‘Abbott Elementary’ Star Janelle James Says Comedy Helped Her Cope With Depression

“UnWrapped” Podcast: “Am I depressed now? Not as much. That’s probably why I do less stand-up now. I’m happier.” ‘Abbott Elementary’ Star Janelle James Says Comedy Helped Her Cope With Depression Before Janelle James was an Emmy-nominated actress on “Abbott Elementary,” she was stand-up comedian in Champaign, Illinois. During a recent episode of TheWrap’s [“UnWrapped”]( Podcast, the actress opened up about her early days of comedy. “Like most comedians, I started stand-up because of hardship,” James told TheWrap. “My dad was ill and dying, and then I found this thing that helped me refocus … It helped me process what I was going through.” “Am I depressed now? Not as much,” she said. “That’s probably why I do less stand-up now. I’m happier.” During this episode, James also … - Talked about the legacy of “Abbott Elementary” - Broke down dancing to “Back That Azz Up” in the Season 3 premiere - Shared details about the “Abbott Elementary” Season 3 wrap party - Revealed that her boyfriend says Ava’s confidence is the same confidence she has in herself [Click here]( to read more. About "UnWrapped" [“UnWrapped”]( is a podcast produced by WrapWomen, dedicated to empowering the next generation of women in media and entertainment. Each episode “unwraps” topics from entertainment news and industry trends to career advice, Hollywood headlines and more. Special guests include industry leaders, actors, producers and studio execs. The aim of the series is to connect those looking for knowledge and access to those with the knowledge and access, providing the WrapWomen community with tools to succeed in their personal and professional lives. You can listen to the full episode on [TheWrap.com](, [Spotify](, [Apple Podcasts](, [Amazon Music](, TheWrap’s [YouTube page]( or wherever you get your podcasts. Listen & enjoy wherever you get your podcasts! TheWrap 2260 S. Centinela Ave. Suite 150, Los Angeles, CA 90064 [Preferences]( | [Unsubscribe](