Sheryl Lee Ralph, celebrated actress and recent Emmy winner, is experiencing a significant resurgence in her career, sparked by her role as Barbara Howard on the acclaimed sitcom Abbott Elementary. This heartfelt portrayal recently culminated with Ralph becoming the second Black woman to win an Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series, a milestone celebrated across the entertainment industry.
During her emotional acceptance speech, which took place at the 2022 Emmy Awards, Ralph captivated the audience not only with her words but also with song. She sang Dianne Reeves' 1993 hit "Endangered Species," leaving many in attendance moved. "I had to center myself, ‘cause I was about ready to lose it and I just sang, you know?" she recalled. “I had no idea how much it was going to reach people.” This moment solidified Ralph's return to the limelight and showcased her range as both an actress and performer.
The Emmy recognition was years in the making for Ralph, whose love for acting took root during her school years. "I sang 'O Holy Night.' I got the solo. And when I heard the applause... it was like, mainline, mainline. Oh my God, I got to have it. Applause,” she explained during a recent appearance on Sunday Sitdown With Willie Geist. Despite her passion for performance, she faced challenges early on, particularly from her mother, who immigrated from Jamaica and had different career aspirations—encouraging her daughter to strive for professions such as law or medicine. Ralph humorously mimicked her mother’s advice, stating, "Be a doctor. Be a lawyer. And if you can’t do those, then marry one."
Fortunately for fans of her work, Ralph decided to follow her heart, leading to memorable roles such as Brandy's mother on Moesha and appearances in films like Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit. Yet, it was the character of Barbara Howard on Abbott Elementary—a no-nonsense kindergarten teacher with deep empathy for her students—that allowed Ralph to connect intimately with audiences. "I love Barbara Howard, because she just resembles so many teachers I had," she remarked. "These are teachers who really believed I could fly, even when I felt I couldn’t.”
Ralph's career is not only marked by triumphs; she also faced the challenges of being one of the few Black actresses breaking barriers during her time. The Emmy win represented not just her personal achievement but also a vindication of her efforts. Ralph reflected on the long road to success, stating, "It took me 40 years. 40 years to become an overnight sensation," encapsulating the perseverance required to make her mark.
Beyond her film and television roles, Ralph’s personal life also garners attention. She has been married for 19 years to Senator Vincent Hughes of Philadelphia, and she’s spoken openly about the dynamics of their long-distance relationship. The unique arrangement has received mixed reactions over the years, but Ralph remains positive: “When it’s time to leave, bye-bye, see you soon. Life is good.” This sentiment reflects how the couple has successfully navigated their time apart and highlights the evolution of modern relationships.
Ralph also takes inspiration from her peers and mentors. Robert De Niro, with whom she worked on the film Mistress, provided her with encouragement early on. "You’re a damn good actress... So you’d best climb the mountain and wave the red flag," he advised her, pushing Ralph to assert herself within the industry. "It’s like ride the wave, baby. All I have to do is be good, and more good just will come to me," she said, embodying the spirit of someone who has faced challenges yet continues to thrive.
Now, Sheryl Lee Ralph is stepping back onto the screen with her role in the film Ricky. This story, which premiered at Sundance, navigates the struggles of those re-entering society after incarceration. Ralph’s portrayal of Joanne, Ricky's parole officer, adds depth to the narrative, showcasing the difficulties and emotional landscapes people face post-incarceration.
Reflecting on her career, Ralph embraces the diverse and rich opportunities she has encountered. She is not merely satisfied with recognition but is intent on leveraging her platform for greater representation and inclusivity within the industry. Her commitment is as strong as ever, as evidenced by her latest projects and public engagements.
Sheryl Lee Ralph is, undeniably, a trailblazer—the result of hard work, determination, and a heartfelt commitment to her craft. With new projects underway and her inspiring messages echoing within the walls of Hollywood, she assures fans and aspiring actors alike: perseverance pays off.