Fans of the beloved comedy series Community may not be aware that there is a spin-off series titled Abed’s Master Key that many have missed. This animated webisode series, which features Danny Pudi reprising his role as the fan-favorite character Abed Nadir, was produced during a hiatus in the show’s run on NBC. The spin-off serves as a unique chapter in the Community universe, created in response to the show’s dedicated fanbase.
Originally airing on NBC from 2009 to 2015, Community follows a quirky group of students at Greendale Community College. The sitcom, which boasts over 100 episodes, features a cast that includes Joel McHale, Yvette Nicole Brown, Alison Brie, Donald Glover, Chevy Chase, Gillian Jacobs, and Pudi. Known for its clever writing and pop-culture references, Community has garnered a loyal following, leading to ongoing discussions about a potential movie.
The idea for Abed’s Master Key emerged during a break in Community‘s third season in late 2011. NBC was exploring new programming options and did not recognize the immense growth of the show’s online fanbase, which had mobilized to advocate for its continuation. Fans organized flash mobs at NBC headquarters, demonstrating their passion and commitment. Their efforts bore fruit when new episodes resumed on March 15, 2012.
The spin-off was created as a way to keep fans engaged while Community was on hiatus. Written by Dan Harmon alongside writers Dave Seger and Tom Kauffman, the three-episode series was animated by Animax Entertainment. It was released on Hulu, where many fans were already watching the main series. The premise revolves around the Dean of Greendale entrusting Abed with the “Master Key” to the school, leading to comedic scenarios that reflect the original show’s charm.
As of now, Abed’s Master Key is no longer available for streaming on Hulu, disappointing completionists eager to explore every aspect of the Community franchise. However, the complete series of Community remains accessible on Hulu, while Peacock also offers the entire run. For those seeking a free option, Tubi provides Seasons 1 and 2 for streaming.
The shifting landscape of streaming rights has complicated the availability of many older shows and their related projects. The removal of the webisodes likely stems from such rights changes, and while they have become harder to find, fans can still connect with the vibrant Community fanbase on social media. The adventures of Abed, often referred to as the “Depu-Dean,” continue to resonate with audiences, demonstrating the lasting impact of this unconventional comedy.
As new fans discover Community, the series’ ability to surprise viewers with hidden gems like Abed’s Master Key showcases its enduring legacy and the unique bond it has cultivated with its audience.
