Vella Lovell says Season 4 of FOX’s Animal Control pushes her character, Emily Price, into unfamiliar and uncomfortable territory as personal choices begin to collide with professional responsibility. Speaking about the new season, Lovell describes Emily as “messier” than viewers have seen before, navigating the fallout of a secret romantic relationship with her coworker and subordinate, Shred (Michael Rowland).

The relationship, which began after feelings were acknowledged in Season 3, quickly becomes difficult to contain. Although meant to stay private, it starts bleeding into daily life at the A.C. Northwest precinct. Emily’s usual composure slips as she struggles with distraction, lateness, and emotional strain while trying to maintain authority as precinct director. Lovell explains that Emily’s instinct to please everyone clashes sharply with workplace ethics, leaving her feeling vulnerable and out of her depth for the first time.

That secrecy also takes a toll on Emily’s closest friendship. Episode four, “Lost Dogs and Bar Flies,” places her bond with Victoria (Grace Palmer) under serious pressure. Lovell notes that Emily’s fear of showing imperfection makes honesty especially hard, even with someone she deeply trusts. She credits the show for portraying a healthy female friendship—one that allows conflict without falling into stereotypical rivalries—emphasizing that Emily and Victoria’s connection remains rooted in mutual care and respect.

At work, the stakes grow even higher. Templeton (Gerry Dee) returns as a regular cast member, becoming a constant presence amid the ongoing merger and posing a real threat to Emily’s position. His scrutiny, paired with Emily’s growing recklessness, puts her leadership under intense pressure. The situation becomes more complicated with the arrival of Daisy (Kyla Pratt), who openly supports Templeton, creating clear divisions within the precinct.

Despite the chaos, Lovell believes this unraveling is essential to Emily’s growth. Making imperfect choices forces her to confront long-standing imposter syndrome and ultimately shapes her into a more confident leader. Lovell says the contrast between Emily’s tightly controlled early seasons and her rule-breaking Season 4 arc highlights how growth sometimes comes from doing things “wrong.”

Season 4 builds toward what Lovell calls an “explosive” finale, culminating in a cliffhanger that ties together Emily’s risky relationship and the looming merger threat. The season also features notable guest appearances, including another Community reunion with Jim Rash joining previously announced guests Ken Jeong and Thomas Lennon, along with the return of Josh Segarra. Fans can also expect a high-energy “24”-style spoof episode and expanded scenes between Emily and Frank (Joel McHale), adding to what promises to be the show’s most ambitious season yet.