Quinta Brunson’s pixie-bop era continues, and, simply put, it’s awesome. The Abbott Elementary School founder and actress once again showed off her chic hairdo while accepting the Key to the City in Philadelphia on Wednesday afternoon.
The actor attended the May 28 ceremony at Andrew Hamilton School, her alma mater and the model for Abbott Elementary School. Brunson was also honored by Philadelphia Mayor Cheryl Parker.
For the 35-year-old comedian, the afternoon was more than just a homecoming experience, it was a celebration of her unwavering commitment to public education and her deep bond with the city that raised her.
Yes, Brunson’s pixie-bop looked as stylish as ever, and she paired it with a well-tailored ensemble consisting of a jacket, a white polo shirt, an asymmetrical skirt, tiny gold hoops, and a pair of pointy-toe heels. The actor kept her makeup classic, too, with a subtle smoky eye and glossy lip.
During the event, the city also unveiled a mural of Brunson that captured her in bold, joyful strokes, paying tribute to her contributions to the community and the cultural landscape at large.
In front of her family, former teachers and enthusiastic fans, Brunson spoke about the power of public schools to foster creativity and resilience, echoing the message of her funny and insightful TV show.
“It’s so surreal to be in this room right now,” she said on stage at her former elementary school on Wednesday. “This school is part of the Abbott building.” The actor told the Associated Press how much the mural inspired her growing up in Philadelphia, which made her life come full circle.
The actor and producer is constantly experimenting with her pixie cut, ensuring her fans have plenty of inspiration. From her waving glam look at the 2025 Met Gala (where she debuted and wore designer Sergio Hudson) to her recent appearance in Philadelphia, her bob has become a symbol of her evolving style. On a deeper level, the haircut reflects a new chapter for Brunson.
“I had been planning it for so long but always hesitated, so I decided it was time to just give up and cut it off,” she told People in September 2024 of her then-new pixie cut, which she styled back in soft curls.
She admitted to feeling “shocked, but then completely freed” after cutting her hair, adding that she “has never felt better. I feel so much like myself. This feels like a part of me that I’ve been wanting for so long.”
Wednesday’s honor for Philadelphia comes at a time of personal and professional transition for Brunson. Earlier this year, she filed for divorce from her husband of three years, Kevin Anik, citing irreconcilable differences.
Abbott Elementary continues to thrive, with its fourth season currently airing and launching a highly anticipated crossover with It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia.