Early Life and Education of Sheryl Lee Ralph: A Complete Timeline

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Sheryl Lee Ralph

Discover the defining moments in the early life of Sheryl Lee Ralph. From birth to education, explore key events.

Sheryl Lee Ralph is a celebrated American actress and singer renowned for her contributions to both stage and screen. She rose to prominence as Deena Jones in the original Broadway production of Dreamgirls in 1981, earning a Tony Award nomination. More recently, Ralph garnered critical acclaim and an Emmy Award for her portrayal of Barbara Howard in the ABC sitcom Abbott Elementary. Her Emmy win was particularly noteworthy as she became the first Black woman in 35 years to receive the award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series in 2022.

December 30, 1956: Sheryl Lee Ralph's Birth

On December 30, 1956, Sheryl Lee Ralph was born. She is an American actress and singer known for her work on stage and screen.

Others born on this day/year

1972: Graduation and Pageant Win

In 1972, Sheryl Lee Ralph graduated and was crowned Miss Black Teen-age New York.

1990: Marriage to Eric Maurice

In 1990, Sheryl Lee Ralph married French businessman Eric Maurice.

1991: Birth of Son

In 1991, Sheryl Lee Ralph and Eric Maurice had a son.

1994: Birth of Daughter

In 1994, Sheryl Lee Ralph and Eric Maurice had a daughter.

2001: Divorce from Eric Maurice

In 2001, Sheryl Lee Ralph divorced French businessman Eric Maurice.

July 2004: Induction into Delta Sigma Theta Sorority

In July 2004, Sheryl Lee Ralph was inducted as an honorary member of Delta Sigma Theta sorority at the 47th National Convention in Las Vegas, Nevada.

July 30, 2005: Marriage to Vincent Hughes

On July 30, 2005, Sheryl Lee Ralph married Pennsylvania State Senator Vincent Hughes.

May 2008: Honorary Doctorate from Tougaloo College

In May 2008, Sheryl Lee Ralph was awarded an honorary doctorate of humane letters from Tougaloo College after giving the commencement address.

February 9, 2013: Appearance at Columbus Middle School Youth Rally

On February 9, 2013, Sheryl Lee Ralph appeared at the 2013 Columbus Middle School youth rally in Columbus, Mississippi.

2023: Mrs. Claus in Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

In 2023, Sheryl Lee Ralph became the first celebrity and the first Black person to play Mrs. Claus in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade’s history.

2023: Commencement Speaker at Rutgers

In 2023, Sheryl Lee Ralph served as the commencement speaker at Rutgers for the Class of 2023.

2023: Commencement Speaker and Honorary Doctorate at Rutgers

In 2023, Sheryl Lee Ralph was the commencement speaker for Rutgers University and received an honorary Doctorate of Fine Arts degree at the ceremony.

2024: Fundraiser Performance for Joe Biden

In 2024, Sheryl Lee Ralph sang for President Joe Biden at a large fundraiser for his reelection.