Sheryl Lee Ralph Reflects on Legacy as She Receives Star on Hollywood Walk of Fame

After nearly five decades of captivating audiences on stage and screen, Emmy-winning actress Sheryl Lee Ralph has earned one of Hollywood’s most iconic honors—a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

On Tuesday, April 16, Sheryl Lee Ralph was officially inducted into the storied landmark, joining a legacy of entertainers who have left a lasting mark on the industry. The celebration marked a full-circle moment for the beloved performer, who has spent decades carving out space for herself and others as a Black woman in Hollywood.

In a candid interview with Variety ahead of the ceremony, Sheryl Lee Ralph acknowledged the persistence and passion that fueled her journey—and the tough realities many face in pursuit of similar dreams.

“If I have the honor of a star, anybody can—if it’s something you’re really willing to put the work in for,” she said. “Or if you have a sugar daddy or sugar mama who just wants to give it to you. But—more than likely, you’re going to have to do some work.”

Dressed in an elegant black sleeveless gown, Sheryl Lee Ralph accepted her star with a wide smile and visible emotion, wiping away tears as she thanked the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, her supporters, and a higher power.

“Look at what the universe has done,” she told the crowd. “Thank you, God. Thank you, Goddess. Thank you, Hollywood.”

Ralph’s illustrious career spans from her early breakout role in Sidney Poitier’s 1977 film A Piece of the Action to her award-winning portrayal of Barbara Howard on ABC’s hit series Abbott Elementary. Along the way, she’s become a beacon of resilience and excellence, championed by generations of fans.

“I am very fortunate, because I have something that I don’t think a lot of performers get—and that is the appreciation and the respect of your audience,” she shared.

The actress recounted a recent moment that captured just how far-reaching her influence has become: “I just came back from a 20-hour trip, and the pilots came out and said, ‘We love you. Would you take a picture with us?’ I was like, ‘These are guys, and the Black guy didn’t even have to tell the white guy who I was!’”

She added, laughing, “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.”