Sheryl Lee Ralph Biography
Sheryl Lee Ralph was born on December 30, 1956, in Waterbury, Connecticut, USA. She is an accomplished actress and singer, known for her dynamic performances on stage and screen.
Early Life
Sheryl was raised between Mandeville, Jamaica, and Long Island, New York. Her father, Stanley Ralph, was a college professor, and her mother, Ivy Ralph, was a Jamaican fashion designer. She has a younger brother, Michael Ralph, who is also an actor and comedian.
Sheryl attended Uniondale High School in Uniondale, New York, where she starred in a high-school production of the musical Oklahoma.
She graduated from Rutgers University at the age of 19, making her the youngest woman to graduate from the institution.
Career
Sheryl’s career began in the late 1970s. She gained widespread acclaim for her role as Deena Jones in the Broadway musical Dreamgirls (1981), for which she was nominated for a Tony Award. She has appeared in numerous films, including Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit, The Mighty Quinn, The Distinguished Gentleman, and To Sleep with Anger.
On television, Sheryl is well-known for her roles in Moesha, Instant Mom, Ray Donovan, and Abbott Elementary. Her performance in Abbott Elementary earned her a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series.
Summery
Theater
Broadway Debut: Ralph made her Broadway debut in the original cast of the musical Dreamgirls (1981), where she received critical acclaim for her role as Deena Jones, earning a Tony Award nomination for Best Actress in a Musical. She has also performed in other stage productions, including Thoroughly Modern Millie and The Tap Dance Kid.
Notable Roles
Moesha (1996–2001): Ralph starred as Dee Mitchell, the strict but loving stepmother. This role earned her widespread recognition.
Abbott Elementary (2021–present): She plays Barbara Howard, a seasoned teacher. Her performance has been highly praised, earning her an Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series in 2023.
Other Appearances: Ralph has made guest appearances on numerous shows including Dynasty, The Jeffersons, Boston Legal, and Evil.
Film Roles
Ralph has appeared in several films, including The Mighty Quinn (1989), Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit (1993), and Ray (2004).
Recording Career
Ralph released a solo album, In the Evening (1984), which included the hit single “In the Evening.” Her music career, while not as prominent as her acting career, contributed to her versatility as an entertainer.
Advocacy and Public Speaking
Activism: Outside of her entertainment career, Ralph is known for her advocacy work. She has been involved in various charitable activities and causes, particularly those related to education and health.
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Sheryl Lee Ralph Husband
Sheryl Lee Ralph is married to Vincent Hughes, a Pennsylvania State Senator. The couple has been together since 2005. Hughes is famous for his work in politics and advocacy, and their partnership is a notable aspect of Ralph’s personal life.
Sheryl Lee Ralph Dreamgirls
Ralph played Deena Jones, one of the lead characters in the musical. Deena is a member of the fictional girl group, The Dreams, and the role is central to the story of the show. Her portrayal of Deena Jones earned her widespread recognition and praise, showcasing her powerful voice and acting skills.
Ralph’s performance was so impactful that it earned her a nomination for the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical in 1982. Although she did not win, the nomination was a significant achievement and highlighted her talent.
Dreamgirls itself is a landmark musical, and Ralph’s performance is remembered as a key part of its success. The show went on to become a major hit and was later adapted into a successful film in 2006.
Sheryl Lee Ralph Children
She has two children, Etienne Maurice and Ivy-Victoria Maurice.
Sheryl Lee Ralph Nationality
Lee Ralph is American. She was born in Waterbury, Connecticut, and is of Jamaican descent. Her multicultural background has been an important aspect of her identity and has influenced her work in the entertainment industry.
Achievements
Sheryl has received numerous accolades throughout her career, including an Independent Spirit Award for Best Supporting Female for her performance in To Sleep with Anger.
Social Media
Sheryl Lee Ralph Instagram
@thesherylleeralph
Sheryl Lee Ralph Twitter
@thesherylralph
Sheryl Lee Ralph Salary
Sheryl Lee Ralph’s salary can vary based on the projects she is involved in. For example, her role in the TV show Abbott Elementary has been a significant part of her recent earnings. Actors on popular network television shows can earn anywhere from $100,000 to several hundred thousand dollars per episode, depending on their contract and the show’s success. Ralph’s exact salary for specific projects isn’t always publicly disclosed, but her successful career and high-profile roles suggest she commands a substantial salary for her work.
Sheryl Lee Ralph Net Worth
As of 2024, Sheryl Lee Ralph’s net worth is estimated to be around $10 million. She has had a distinguished career in entertainment, including notable roles in television, film, and theater. Ralph is also known for her work as a singer and her activism. Her financial success reflects her long-standing contributions to the industry.
Sheryl Lee Ralph Age
Lee Ralph is 67 years old
Relationships
Sheryl Lee Ralph has been married twice. She was first married to Eric Maurice, with whom she has two children. She is currently married to Vincent Hughes.