An actress, singer and activist, Sheryl Lee Ralph has graced both the big and small screen and has left her indelible mark on Broadway. Ralph burst onto the world stage in her role as Deena Jones in the groundbreaking Broadway musical hit Dreamgirls, returning later in Thoroughly Modern Millie and Wicked. She made Broadway history as the first African American to play Madame Morrible in the Broadway musical Wicked.

Ralph has appeared in numerous screen productions starring alongside many Hollywood greats. She has starred in many TV shows, conquering both comedy and drama. Her current role as the beloved teacher Ms. Barbara Howard on Abbott Elementary earned her an Emmy, making her the second Black woman since Jackée Henry to receive the honor in 35 years.