“Abbott Elementary” Star Chris Perfetti Heading To Off-Broadway In New LeBron James Fanatic Play

“Abbott Elementary” actor Chris Perfetti is heading back to the stage in a dramatic play about two friends’ love for LeBron James. 

Perfetti, who portrays the role of history teacher Jacob Hill in ABC’s hit sitcom, will put his extensive background in theater to good use when he tackles his latest role as Matt in the play, “King James.” The storyline follows the sports fanatic and his friend Shawn, portrayed by Glenn Davis. Both Clevelanders, the men bond over their love for the city’s most prominent player. What makes the presentation unique is that they are the only two characters in the production, an aspect that Perfetti says was a bit intimidating. 

“I was intrigued and thrilled and terrified of what it would mean to be in a play with just myself and another actor. It’s a lot to do, which is both really gratifying and exhausting,” Perfetti admitted to PEOPLE. Still, he believes so many will be able to relate to the play, which is centered around guy talk and how sports serve a major purpose in relationship building and friendship. While the play is built around James and his illustrious career, Perfetti says basketball will serve as just a “vehicle to talk about bigger things.” Perfetti hopes that the Los Angeles Lakers star will catch the performance for himself someday. 

Playwright Rajiv Joseph originally scheduled the co-production of “King James for May 2020. Since the COVID-19 pandemic made that impossible, the stageplay will now hit the Manhattan Theatre Club in New York City on May 16th.