Sheryl Lee Ralph "deeply grateful" to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame: "This star shines for us all"

SHERYL Lee Ralph, widely acclaimed for her role as Barbara Howard on Abbott Elementary, is set to receive one of the entertainment industry’s most prestigious honours: a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

The milestone ceremony will take place on Wednesday, January 29, marking a crowning achievement in the actress’s illustrious career and contributions to television.

Ralph took to X (formerly Twitter) to share her excitement, writing: “I am deeply grateful to announce the honor of receiving a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. What a celebration of love, perseverance, and the unwavering support of family, friends and fans. Thank you! This star shines for us all!”

Honourees for the Walk of Fame are selected by a panel that includes other star recipients, with Ralph’s inclusion first announced in 2023. Recipients have two years to schedule their ceremonies, and while details about potential guest speakers remain undisclosed, fans can expect the event to be streamed on the Walk of Fame website.

Born in Connecticut, Ralph graduated from Rutgers University before embarking on a career that has spanned decades and multiple mediums.

Her breakthrough came in 1982 when she earned a Tony nomination for originating the role of Deena Jones in the Broadway classic Dreamgirls. Over the years, she cemented her place in television history with standout performances in shows like It’s a Living, Moesha, New Attitude, and Instant Mom.

The 68-year-old's work on Abbott Elementary has elevated her career to new heights. Portraying Barbara Howard, a veteran kindergarten teacher who balances wisdom and tradition with occasional moments of gentle growth, Ralph has charmed viewers and critics alike. The role earned her an Emmy Award for Best Supporting Actress in 2022, along with nominations at the Golden Globe Awards, Critics’ Choice Television Awards, and Screen Actors Guild Awards.

Ralph’s portrayal of Barbara serves as the emotional heart of Abbott Elementary, where her interactions with the younger teachers—particularly protagonist Janine Teagues, played by the show’s creator Quinta Brunson—highlight themes of mentorship, growth, and community. Beyond the sitcom, Ralph continues to thrive, most recently appearing in the film The Fabulous Four, which premiered in July.

As she put it, “This star shines for us all.”