Sheryl Lee Ralph

Early Life

Sheryl Lee Ralph was born on December 30, 1956, in Waterbury, Connecticut, to Dr. Stanley Ralph, an African-American college professor, and Ivy Ralph, a Jamaican fashion designer known for creating the kariba suit. Growing up between Mandeville, Jamaica, and Long Island, she developed a passion for the performing arts early on. Ralph attended Rutgers University, where she was one of the first recipients of the Irene Ryan Acting Scholarships and was recognized as one of Glamour magazine's top ten college women in America. Initially aspiring to study medicine, she shifted her focus to acting after a transformative experience in a pre-med class.

Career

Ralph's career began in the 1970s with her role in the film "A Piece of the Action" and appearances on television shows like "Good Times" and "The Jeffersons." She gained significant acclaim for her portrayal of Deena Jones in the original Broadway production of "Dreamgirls" in 1981, earning a Tony Award nomination. In 1984, she released her only studio album, "In the Evening," which featured a title track that reached No. 5 on the Billboard Dance Music/Club Play Singles chart. Ralph continued to build her career with roles in films and television, including voicing Rita in Disney's "Oliver & Company" and starring in the sitcom "Moesha."

Personal Life

Sheryl Lee Ralph was married to French businessman Eric Maurice from 1990 until their divorce in 2001, and they share two children. She has been married to Pennsylvania State Senator Vincent Hughes since 2005. Ralph is also known for her advocacy work, having been inducted as an honorary member of Delta Sigma Theta sorority and receiving an honorary doctorate from Tougaloo College. In 2023, she was named the commencement speaker at Rutgers University, her alma mater, where she received another honorary degree. Ralph's contributions to the arts and her representation of Jamaican culture have earned her numerous accolades, including being named the 2024 Advocate of the Year and receiving a star on Hollywood's Walk of Fame in 2025.