Sheryl Lee Ralph Honored with Star on Hollywood Walk of Fame

HOLLYWOOD, Calif. — Emmy winner Sheryl Lee Ralph was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on April 15, 2025, reflecting on her extensive career in theater and television during the ceremony.

Ralph, best known for her role as Barbara Howard in ABC’s hit sitcom “Abbott Elementary,” humorously addressed the crowd, stating, “If I have the honor of a star, anybody can — if it’s something you’re really willing to put the work in for or if you have a sugar daddy or a sugar mama who just wants to give it to you.” Ralph’s charm invoked laughter, emphasizing her dedication to hard work in the industry.

The actress made her first appearance on the famed Warner Bros. lot nearly 50 years ago when she auditioned for the role of Barbara Hanley in the 1977 film “A Piece of the Action,” directed by Sidney Poitier. Though she initially realized that Poitier’s daughter Pamela was also auditioning, Ralph’s journey led to a deep friendship with Pamela Poitier.

“I ended up with an incredible friendship with Pamela Poitier,” Ralph recalled. “She said, ‘Sheryl, you stole my career.’” Despite initial doubts, Ralph secured the role and maintained a mentorship with Poitier until his passing in 2022. “Because I was the best,” Ralph commented on the casting decision, recalling their conversations about navigating the industry.

Ralph’s career took off further when she was cast in the production of “Swing!” in 1980, but the experience highlighted racial challenges in the theater world. After receiving negative reviews, Ralph was left behind by the production team. “They left us at the hotel with a note, mind you, that said we no longer fit into the trajectory of the story. So, they went to the Kennedy Center without us,” she recounted, demonstrating the struggles she experienced throughout her career.

In a serendipitous turn, Ralph received a last-minute opportunity for a role in the musical “Reggae” on Broadway. Although the production only lasted for 21 performances, it marked her debut on the prestigious stage. “On closing night, the theater had only five people in attendance,” she recalled, but one audience member recognized her talent, changing the trajectory of her career.

Following her Broadway debut, Ralph found herself cast as Deena Jones in “Dreamgirls,” a role that earned her a Tony nomination. Reflecting on that period, she noted the diversity of experiences she encountered, which contributed to her growth as an actress. “I’m tired,” Ralph said. “One day, I just forget all my lines of a song. One night only, but I knew it was time to go.”

Her move to television was heralded by her involvement in NBC’s sci-fi series “V: The Series,” a shift that ultimately solidified her position in Hollywood. After moving to L.A., Ralph consistently booked roles in successful productions including “Moesha,” where she portrayed Dee Mitchell, often referred to as the defining figure of a generation.

Quinta Brunson, creator of “Abbott Elementary,” crossed paths with Ralph in 2018. Ralph remembered spotting Brunson while working on the CBS series “Fam,” which led to a significant connection. “My daughter said, ‘Mom, that’s Quinta Brunson. You have to meet her, because she’s gonna be somebody,’” Ralph recalled, emphasizing the importance of recognizing emerging talent.

Despite setbacks, including a canceled show during the COVID-19 pandemic, Ralph remained resilient. Eventually, she joined the cast of “Abbott Elementary,” which has now garnered numerous accolades, including an Emmy award. “I am very fortunate,” Ralph expressed at the Walk of Fame ceremony. “I just came back from a 20-hour trip, and the pilots came out and said, ‘We love you.’ I was like, ‘Does it get much better than this?’”

Ralph concluded her speech with a heartfelt sentiment, saying, “OK, yeah, I could win an Oscar, but I don’t know if it would be any better. I feel good. I feel happy. I’m loving it.”