Sheryl Lee Ralph Gets Her Star On The Walk of Fame

Greg Swales for Variety

Sheryl Lee Ralph has been dazzling us for decades — and now, the Emmy-winning actress, advocate, and true diva has received one of Hollywood’s highest honors: her very own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

The ceremony took place in Los Angeles, where Ralph stood radiant and reflective, surrounded by the people who have shared her journey. “I’m not just part of the fabric that is Hollywood,” she said. “I’m part of the cemented foundation that is Hollywood.”

Born in Waterbury, Connecticut, Ralph was breaking barriers early. At just 19, she became the youngest woman to graduate from Rutgers University — and just a year later, landed her first movie role. Her star power only grew with her iconic portrayal of Deena Jones in the original Dreamgirls on Broadway, alongside Jennifer Holliday and Loretta Devine.

It’s no surprise that her Abbott Elementary co-star and creator Quinta Brunson called her “a master class in what it means to be an eternal and consistent diva.” Ralph’s performance as Barbara Howard, the no-nonsense, big-hearted teacher on the hit show, has earned her critical acclaim and a whole new generation of fans.

But Ralph’s legacy stretches far beyond the spotlight. In the early ‘90s, she founded The Diva Foundation, using her platform to advocate for HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention — work she’s continued tirelessly to this day.

She closed the ceremony with a powerful dedication: “I want generations to see what’s possible, that their dreams are valid, that their voice is powerful, and their potential limitless.”

Whether on stage, on screen, or on the streets of Hollywood, Sheryl Lee Ralph’s star continues to shine — boldly, brightly, and forever.