Emmy-winning actress Sheryl Lee Ralph received her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on April 16, 2025. The beloved “Abbott Elementary” star was awarded the 2,808th star in the Television category during a ceremony that brought together family, castmates, and longtime supporters. Ralph used the momentous occasion to honor Black women legends who paved the way for her groundbreaking career.
The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce further commemorated this achievement by officially declaring April 16 “Sheryl Lee Ralph Day” in Hollywood. This recognition celebrates her decades-spanning career from Broadway’s “Dreamgirls” to her current Emmy-winning role on “Abbott Elementary.”
Broadway Legend and TV Icon Stuns in Designer Gown
Ralph looked absolutely radiant at the ceremony in a gorgeous strapless Rhea Costa gown. Her elegant appearance perfectly matched the significance of the occasion. The actress was surrounded by an impressive group of supporters who gathered to celebrate her achievement.
Family members stood proudly by her side, including husband Vincent Hughes and children Ivy-Victoria and Etienne. Her professional family was well-represented too, with “Abbott Elementary” co-stars Quinta Brunson, Tyler James Williams, and Janelle James all in attendance. Fellow Broadway legend Loretta Devine, who starred alongside Ralph in “Dreamgirls,” also came to honor her longtime friend.
Entertainment Tonight’s Nischelle Turner hosted the ceremony, adding to the star-studded nature of the event. The gathering included members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, showing the broad impact Ralph has had across entertainment and community service throughout her career.
Emotional Tributes from Co-Stars and Colleagues
During the ceremony, Ralph received heartfelt praise from her colleagues. Quinta Brunson, creator and star of “Abbott Elementary,” delivered a moving tribute to the actress who plays the formidable Barbara Howard on their hit show.
“She is a master class in what it means to be an eternal and consistent diva,” Brunson said of Ralph. This sentiment was echoed by Loretta Devine, who shared memories of their work together dating back to the late 1970s. “I’m amazed at her ability to get things done. She was strong in 1979, and she still is strong,” Devine remarked.
These tributes highlighted not just Ralph’s immense talent but also her remarkable consistency and determination throughout her career. Both speakers emphasized how Ralph’s strength of character has been as impressive as her artistic abilities.
Ralph’s Powerful Speech Honors Black Women Legends
In her emotional acceptance speech, Ralph reflected on her journey while making it clear she views this milestone as just another beginning. “This star is not the finish line, it is the starting block,” she stated emphatically to the cheering crowd.
The actress openly acknowledged the obstacles she has faced throughout her career. “I have been counted out, passed over, told I was too Black, too strong, too much—and yet, here I stand,” she said. Ralph then dedicated her star to trailblazing Black women actresses who came before her, specifically naming Ruby Dee, Cicely Tyson, and Rosalind Cash.
Her speech concluded with an inspirational message to dreamers in the audience. “Dreams don’t have an expiration date,” Ralph said, encouraging persistence even when success seems distant. These words carried particular weight coming from someone who has continued to reach new career heights well into her sixties.
Multi-Decade Career Spans Broadway to Primetime Television
Ralph’s career truly exemplifies the concept of a multi-hyphenate talent. Her breakthrough came with her Tony-nominated performance as Deena Jones in the original Broadway production of “Dreamgirls” in 1981. This role established her as a formidable presence in American theater.
Her transition to television included memorable roles on “Moesha,” where she played the stepmother to Brandy’s title character. Ralph also delighted audiences in films like “Sister Act 2” alongside Whoopi Goldberg. Her versatility across stage, film, and television demonstrates remarkable range and adaptability.
In recent years, Ralph has experienced a career renaissance with her portrayal of kindergarten teacher Barbara Howard on ABC’s “Abbott Elementary.” This performance earned her an Emmy Award in 2022, making her only the second Black woman to win Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series. Her emotional acceptance speech at that ceremony went viral, showing her continued ability to inspire audiences.
Hollywood Recognition Long Overdue for Industry Veteran
The Walk of Fame honor represents long-overdue recognition for Ralph’s extensive contributions to entertainment. Throughout her career spanning more than four decades, she has consistently delivered standout performances while breaking barriers for Black women in the industry.
Beyond her acting career, Ralph has been a vocal advocate for HIV/AIDS awareness through her DIVA Foundation. She has also worked as a director and producer, further demonstrating her comprehensive understanding of the entertainment business and her commitment to creating opportunities for diverse voices.
The declaration of “Sheryl Lee Ralph Day” in Hollywood underscores the significance of her contributions. As Entertainment Tonight’s Nischelle Turner noted during the ceremony, this recognition is “honestly, about time” for someone who has given so much to American entertainment.
Ralph’s Impact Extends Beyond Entertainment
While the Walk of Fame star celebrates Ralph’s entertainment career, her influence extends far beyond her performances. She has been a consistent voice for inclusion and representation in Hollywood throughout her decades in the industry.
Her presence at the ceremony surrounded by Delta Sigma Theta Sorority sisters highlighted her commitment to community service and mentorship. As both an artist and activist, Ralph has consistently used her platform to advocate for important causes and uplift others.
The diverse crowd at her star ceremony – from industry veterans to young actors – demonstrated the wide-ranging impact of her career. By honoring legends like Ruby Dee, Cicely Tyson, and Rosalind Cash in her speech, Ralph also ensured that her moment of recognition became a celebration of the collective achievements of Black women in entertainment.
