Taraji P. Henson is set to make her Abbott Elementary debut this month. Speaking to Extra, she says, “I play Vernita, who is Janine’s mom, and she’s a mess.”

As an entertainment industry veteran, she nabbed the role thanks to her star-studded network. She explains, “I guess I’m in this place in my career where I have friends now, and I’ll tell my friends, ‘Hey, call me if you ever need me.’ But that’s what happened.”

She chose to accept the role as both a supporter and fan of the show.

“I love supporting, you know, and again, I’m such a fan, like, why wouldn’t I? That’s such a talented, amazingly talented cast. The writing is impeccable,” Taraji continues.

She also has a personal connection to the show: “I used to be a substitute teacher, so I have a really … deep love and respect for teachers and educators.”

Speaking of her experience filming, Taraji says she had “a great time” on set.

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“I hope they call me back,” she adds.

Abbott Elementary‘s “Mom” episode featuring Taraji airs April 12 at 9 p.m. ET.