Ralph cultivated serious acting skills at a young age. Thailand's 'most beautiful transgender woman' and husband wear $580K in attire at extravagant wedding, Desperate mountain residents trapped by snow beg for help; 'We are coming,' sheriff says, U.S. court won't require FAA to make airplane seat size, spacing rules, Convicted killer Alex Murdaugh's new mugshot revealed after double life sentence, Rebel Wilson says she was banned from Disneyland for 30 days for taking a bathroom selfie, NCMEC launches new tool to take down explicit online images, Pensioners in Australia Snap Up Amazing New Hearing Aid, Iowa cemetery takes out personal ad for goose whose mate died, Petrobras CEO Stuck Between Dividend-Hungry Investors and Lula, 4 San Diego community college employees fired for refusing to get COVID-19 vaccine. Back in September, Ralph received her first Emmy Award for Best SupportingActress in a Comedy Series thanks to her incredible role as Barbara Howard on Abbott Elementary. Check out Sheryl Lee Ralphs Instagram post recapping the ceremony down below. In a recent interview with Instyle, Ralph shared that after winning her first Emmy, she was ready to start working behind the camera. Sheryl's film career started in 1977 with an appearance in Sidney Poitier's crime comedy, A Piece of the Action.However, she didn't have any other film credit until 1988 when she played the voice role of a Saluki called Rita in a Disney animated musical titled Oliver & Company.. In 1990, she founded the DIVA organization (Divinely Inspired Victoriously Anointed) Foundation, a non-profit that focuses on HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention. She beat Paulina Alexis ( Reservation Dogs ), Ayo Edebiri ( The Bear ), Marcia Gay Harden ( Uncoupled . Personalized content and ads can also include things like video recommendations, a customized YouTube homepage, and tailored ads based on past activity, like the videos you watch and the things you search for on YouTube. The Black community has known how amazing Sheryl Lee Ralph is for decades. Copyright 2023 EBONY. She also created the critically acclaimed Divas Simply Singing!, an evening of song and entertainment that after 22years is the longest consecutive running musical AIDS benefit in the country. You can also visit g.co/privacytools at any time. FILE - Sheryl Lee Ralph arrives at AARP's 21st annual Movies for Grownups Awards on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2023, at the Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel in Beverly Hills, Calif. Ralph is living a career dream: The "Abbott Elementary" star won her first-ever Emmy in 2022 and will lend her powerful vocals as a Super Bowl pregame performer this weekend, Sunday, Feb. 12. Please see our. In 1973, she was crowned Miss Black Teen-age New York. The hashtag used in her caption is a reference to what she said in her powerful acceptance speech at this years Emmy Awards ceremony, where she was victorious in the Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series category for her role on ABCs Abbott Elementary., In a recent interview, Ralph delved into what shes looking forward to doing next in her career. The "Abbott Elementary" star, whose career spans four decades and now includes an Emmy win, received . Well, Sheryl Lee Ralph's age is 66 years old as of today's date 25th February 2023 having been born on 30 December 1956. To have once again that overwhelming wonderful love from people saying how you make them proud., She continued, Wow, its been an amazing day and I know its only going to get better and I am so very happy and proud to be the honorouble Sheryl Lee Ralph, OJ, Order of Jamaica.. She is the daughter of Ivy and Stanley Ralph. Sheryl Lee Ralph was honored earlier this week in Kingston, Jamaica for the national honor award ceremony at King's House by Jamaican prime minister Andrew Michael Holness. Follow Fate. They were spotted sharing a lovely hug as their mother took on the Emmy . Congrats again, Sheryl Lee Ralph! PHOENIX -- Sheryl Lee Ralph is living a career dream: The "Abbott Elementary" star won her first Emmy last year and will lend her powerful vocals as a Super Bowl pregame performer this weekend. Hollywood actors such as Kerry Washington, Jurnee Smollett and Ralphs Abbott Elementary co-star Quinta Brunson all sent over their congratulations under her Instagram post. Sheryl Lee Ralph @sherylleeralph/ Instagram Jamaican Observer reported, "Ralph was one of ten recipients awarded with the nation's fifth highest honour, the Order of Jamaica (OJ).". Fans grew to love Ralph even more when she starred in the television series Moesha,playing the strong Black mother of the title character played by singer Brandy Norwood. We also use cookies and data to tailor the experience to be age-appropriate, if relevant. Up until very recently, Sheryl Lee Ralph believed this would be the last year putting on her star-studded DIVAS Simply Singing! Ivy Ralph ODwe say Original Diva. newsone.com, Which Famous Rappers Are Bloods? She received an honorary doctorate of humane letters from Tougaloo College in 2008. Mommy is The Honourable Sheryl Lee Ralph OJ [Order of Jamaica]. After winning her first Emmy this past September, the acclaimed actress was awarded the Order of Jamaica, the West Indian nation's. Sheryl Lee Ralph was born on December 30, 1956, in Waterbury, Connecticut but the star spent her time traveling between the U.S. and Mandeville, Jamaica visiting family. It was the first of many that would kick-start her busy career. Link Copied! In 1984, she made her film debut in A Soldiers Story, directed by Norman Jewison. From dominating the Broadway stage to starring in some of the biggest TV shows and films over the last decade, Ralph knows no bounds when it comes to showcasing her impeccable acting skills. Sheryl Lee Ralph 1956 -. The Emmy award-winning actress was among 143 Jamaicans who were honored at Jamaicas National Honours and Awards ceremony, which was held on the lawn of Kings House in Kingston earlier today (Oct. 17). The 6 Chicken Dishes Every Jamaican Should Cook. According to the Jamaica Observer, Ralph was honored for her contributions as an actress to the international film industry and for being a cultural ambassador of Jamaica. Sheryl Lee Ralph has accomplished the unthinkable throughout her incredible acting career. Sign up for NewsOne's email newsletter! Lets take a look back at her incredible career and why she continues to dominate the industry one amazing role after the other. Copyright Simbis Inc.All rights reserved. Five-time World Champion Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, recording artist Agent Sasco, renowned jazz pianist Monty Alexander and others were honored during the ceremony. So in all, the prolific actress has been married twice and has two children to show for. In 1990, she founded the DIVA organization (Divinely Inspired Victoriously Anointed) Foundation, a non-profit that focuses on HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention. Sheryl Lee Ralph, an Emmy-winning actress was among 143 Jamaicans who were recognized at Monday's national honors awards ceremony at King's House. There was a time when there was no interest in stories that had to do with people of color, Black people and I would love to give life to some of those stories because I truly believe in the Holy Impossible. After Dreamgirls, Ms. Ralph turned her attention to music, television, and film. In 1977, Ralph made her first onscreen debut in the crime comedy A Piece of the Actionstarting alongside Sidney Portier and Bill Cosby. At the ripe age of 65, the actress doesnt seem to be letting her foot off the gas anytime soon. Ralph, an actress and singer of legendary stature known for her enterprising role as Deena Jones in the original Dreamgirls Broadway cast and countless other film and television credits, has [] She has appeared on: HLN, Joan Velez Mitchell, Entertainment Tonight, CNN, The Daily Show, FOX & Friends, Good Day LA, Good Day NY, CBS Morning News, CNBC Africa, The Martha Stewart Show, The Wendy Williams Show, The Michael Baisden Show, Tom Joyner Show. According to her IMBD page, Ralph missed her graduation to audition for a Skippy Peanut Butter commercial. Sheryl Lee Ralphs life would change in 1981 when she scored a role in the Broadway musical Dreamgirls. and Long Island, New York, Sheryl Lee Ralph was born in Waterbury, Connecticut to an American father and a Jamaican mother. According to ABC 7 in Los Angeles, on Monday, the Emmy-winning actress was recognized with the Honorary Order of. Her work on stage, screen, and television has earned her critical acclaim and a legion of fans. Author, Sheryl Lee Ralphs first book Redefining DIVA (Simon & Schuster) debuted to rave reviews. Thank you for subscribing! Ralph cultivated serious acting skills at a young age. By Julia Jacobs . Ralphs screen debut was in the 1977 comedy A Piece of the Action, but her breakthrough role was playing Deena Jones in the Broadway musical Dreamgirls in 1981. She also appeared in the television movie Olivers Story and in the ABC sitcom Its a Living. She brought a new face to the sufferings of war in the NBC hit series ER. Image: Instagram/@sherylleeralph, By subscribing, you agree to share your email address with EBONY to receive our weekly emails, events, and other updates. Sheryl Lee Ralph captivates and motivates audiences around the world. The Amazing Acting Journey Of Sheryl Lee Ralph: From Broadway To The Emmys. The post The Amazing Acting Journey Of Sheryl Lee Ralph: From Broadway To The Emmys appeared first on NewsOne. #ThisisWhatBelievingLooksLike, A post shared by Sheryl Lee Ralph (@thesherylleeralph). The post The Amazing Acting Journey Of Sheryl Lee Ralph: From Broadway To The Emmys appeared first on NewsOne. Sheryl Lee Ralph was one of ten recipients of the Order of Jamaica (OJ), the nation's fifth-highest honor bestowed on citizens of outstanding distinction. The accolades just keep coming for Sheryl Lee Ralph. She made her screen debut in the 1977 comedy film A Piece of the Action, before landing the role of Deena Jones in the Broadway musical Dreamgirls (1981), for which she received a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical nomination. The Makings Of Black Mamba: Kobe Bryant Through The Years, Your email will be shared with newsone.com and subject to its, Conservatives Cry The Saltiest White Tears Over Black National Anthem Being Sung At Super Bowl, Lift Every Voice And Sing: Sheryl Lee Ralph To Perform Black National Anthem At Super Bowl LVII, to audition for a Skippy Peanut Butter commercial. And Im just ready to bring the impossible to light.. Sources. There was a time when there was no interest in stories that had to do with people of color, Black people and I would love to give life to some of those stories because I truly believe in the Holy Impossible. Sheryl Lee Ralph has been acting on screens and Broadway stages for decades, but her performance in "Abbott Elementary" led to her first Emmy nomination. Additionally, her advocacy work in the fight against HIV/AIDS has made a significant impact on the lives of those affected by the disease. She starred in the High School musical Oklahoma! After her success in Dreamgirls, Ralph continued to work in theater, appearing in productions of Regina Taylors The Tempestand Jellys Last Jam with Gregory Hines. Born to Jamaican fashion designer Ivy Ralph and Stanley Ralph, an American college professor, the performer was raised between Mandeville, Jamaica, and Long Island, New York . [Jamaican flags] #ThisIsWhatBelievingLooksLike, she posted onto her Instagram. Sheryl Lee Ralph's Husband is Vincent Hughes The Honourable Sheryl Lee Ralph, Order of Jamaica! newsone.com, INTERVIEW: Pastor Deitrick Haddon Responds To Christian Outrage Aimed At Beyonc And 'Satanic' GRAMMYs, Age AintWhat?! Watch The Latest Episode Of The Rewind - Hosted By JusNik, In Case You Didnt Know: Black Women Firsts In 2023, Chaka Khan Gives Honest Opinions On Fellow Female Singers, Reality Star Tim Norman Sentenced To Life In Prison, I want to be on TV, Wendy Williams Plans To Return To Daytime Television, Janet Jacksons Nephew Feels Her Performances Are Degrading To Women, Candiace Dillard Bassett Sued By Former Cast Mate For Defamation. Her star-studded performance in the show earned her critical acclaim and a Tony Award nomination for Best Actress in a Musical. He immediately got to work, inspired to make Sheryl Lee Ralph look the like the superhero she is. Learn more about Sheryl Lee . When she was 19, Ralph became the youngest woman to graduate from Rutgers University. Sheryl Lee Ralph, best known as Moesha ' s television stepmom, is an accomplished actress and vocalist whose path to stardom has been occasionally blunted by the shortage of solid roles for women of color in the entertainment industry. It was with a sense of pride that actress and cultural ambassador, Sheryl Lee Ralph, accepted the Order of Jamaica (OJ), during the Ceremony of Investiture and Presentation of National Honours and Awards at King's House on October 17. This year has been a remarkable one for Sheryl Lee Ralph. Sheryl Lee Ralph was born on December 30, 1956, in Waterbury, Connecticut but the star spent her time traveling between the U.S. and Mandeville, Jamaica visiting family. Born to Jamaican fashion designer Ivy Ralph and Stanley Ralph, an American college professor, the performer was raised between Mandeville, Jamaica, and Long Island, New York . Born to Jamaican fashion designer Ivy Ralph and Stanley Ralph, an American college professor, the performer was raised between Mandeville, Jamaica, and Long Island, New York, according to the Jamaica Gleaner. Ivy has . Born on December 30, 1956, Sheryl Lee Ralph is a native of Connecticut. Born to Jamaican fashion designer Ivy Ralph and Stanley Ralph, an American college professor, the performer was raised between Mandeville, Jamaica, and Long Island, New York . And Im just ready to bring the impossible to light, Ralph added. On television, she has starred in Its a Living, her own series New Attitude, the George Foreman series George and in the hit comedy Designing Women. She was nominated for a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical for her performance. She had originally planned to study medicine, but after winning the theater festival scholarship decided to pursue a career in the performing arts. Ralph cultivated serious acting skills at a young age. There was a time when there was no interest in stories that had to do with people of color, Black people and I would love to give life to some of those stories because I truly believe in the Holy Impossible. Let's take a look at her rise to fame. I am looking forward to producing some wonderful material, whether its on stage or on the screen, I want to bring forward some of those stories that have not been told before, she said. to audition for a Skippy Peanut Butter commercial, The Amazing Acting Journey Of Sheryl Lee Ralph: From Broadway To The Emmys, The Amazing Acting Journey Of Sheryl Lee Ralph: From Broadway To The Emmys. As a national speaker, Sheryl Lee consistently creates a contagious positive energy with her spontaneous humor and quick wit, which has made her a much sought-after speaker, guest, guest-host and celebrity expert. An acclaimed show business pro, her award winning body of work in film, television and the Broadway stage includes originating and creating the role of Deena Jones on Broadway in the landmark musical Dreamgirls, which earned her a Tony Award Nomination and a Drama Desk Award Nomination for Best Actress. Dr. Marcia Roye Saluting 60 Jamaican Women Pioneers, Dr. Allison Barnett-Cross : Saluting 60 Jamaican Women Pioneers, The 8 Richest and Most Influential People from Jamaica. What Happened To Wendy Williams? Actress, singer. Born to Jamaican fashion designer Ivy Ralph and Stanley Ralph, an American college professor, the performer was raised between Mandeville, Jamaica, and Long Island, New York . Sheryl Lee Ralph OJ [1] (born December 30, 1956) is an American actress and singer. The actress was one of ten recipients awarded the nations fifth-highest honor. Since 1945, EBONY magazine has shined a spotlight on the worlds of Black people in America and worldwide. She also appeared in the television movie Olivers Story and in the ABC sitcom Its a Living. After her success in Dreamgirls, Ralph continued to work in theater, appearing in productions of Regina Taylors The Tempestand Jellys Last Jam with Gregory Hines. I am The Honourable Sheryl Lee Ralph OJ (Order of Jamaica) Warrior Woman! While filming for the popular series, Ralph continued to work in film, starring in classics like Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit, The Flintstones, and Deterrence. For actress Sheryl Lee Ralphs, 2022 continues to be a year of well-deserved recognition. Ms. Ralph has added the critically acclaimed one-woman show Sometimes I Cry, written, directed and performed by Ralph herself, about the lives, loves, and losses of women infected and affected by HIV/AIDS to her list of outstanding credits. Sheryl Lee Ralph was born on December 30, 1956, in Waterbury, Connecticut but the star spent her time traveling between the U.S. and Mandeville, Jamaica visiting family. (PHOTO GALLERY), INTERVIEW: Pastor Deitrick Haddon Responds To Christian Outrage Aimed At Beyonc And Satanic GRAMMYs, Glorilla Caught On Camera In Walmart Shopping, Nipsey Hussles Convicted Killer Sentenced, SECRETS OUT! The ceremony was held at King's House in Kingston. During a conversation with Live From E! The following year, she landed her first TV role onBaa Baa Black Sheep. The Amazing Acting Journey Of Sheryl Lee Ralph: From Broadway To The Emmys Her star-studded performance in the show earned her critical acclaim and a Tony Award nomination for Best Actress in a Musical. Moreover, she has brothers, Michael Ralph, Stanley Ralph, and Tim Ralph. Can Nashville's Hany Mukhtar repeat as MLS MVP? In the SHOWTIME series, Barbershop, Sheryl broke new ground as the popular, post-operative transsexual, Claire. Why TV Icon Deserves Her Flowers. Raised between Mandeville, Jamaica, W.I. Sheryl Lee Ralph Biography. The show was such a success, that it ran for six seasons on UPN. In 1990, she founded the DIVA organization (Divinely Inspired Victoriously Anointed) Foundation, a non-profit that focuses on HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention. I am looking forward to producing some wonderful material, whether its on stage or on the screen, I want to bring forward some of those stories that have not been told before, she said. Like many Black students, Ralph entered college as a pre-medicine. At 19, she became the youngest woman to graduate from Rutgers University. Meet Tyler The Creators Girlfriend, Reign Judge [Photos], Which Famous Rappers Are Crips? Sheryl Lee Ralph has accomplished the unthinkable throughout her incredible acting career. KINGSTON, Jamaica -- Sheryl Lee Ralph continues to show the world what believing looks like! Sheryl Lee Ralph continues to have a stellar year. Sheryl Lee Ralph at the 74th Primetime Emmy Awards on Sept. 12, styled by Roberto Johnson and Ivy Coco Maurice, wearing Brandon Blackwood. Sheryl is the daughter of Ivy (Lewis) and Stanley Ralph. was originally published on Mother of two with a blended family of four, Sheryl Lee loves every moment of motherhood and marriage. Sheryl Lee Ralph was born on 30 December 1955. The "Abbott Elementary" star, whose career spans four decades and now includes an Emmy win, received . I am The Honourable Sheryl Lee Ralph OJ (Order of Jamaica) Warrior Woman! As she continues to work in the entertainment industry, it is clear that Sheryl Lee Ralph will always be a force to be reckoned with. At 19, Ralph was the youngestwoman to ever graduate from. While filming for the popular series, Ralph continued to work in film, starring in classics like Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit, The Flintstones, and Deterrence. How Jamaican Men Say Thank You to another Jamaican How Jamaicans Greet You When They Have Not Seen You 20 English Words That Sound Better In Jamaican Patois. Why TV Icon Deserves Her Flowers. In a recent interview with Instyle, Ralph shared that after winning her first Emmy, she was ready to start working behind the camera. Her work on stage, screen, and television has earned her critical acclaim and a legion of fans. Additionally, her advocacy work in the fight against HIV/AIDS has made a significant impact on the lives of those affected by the disease. As a producer, Sheryl Lee found new success with her production company, Island Girl Productions, writing, directing and producing her award-winning film short Secrets. In case youre one of the few people who hasnt checked out her hilarious work on Abbott Elementary, the popular comedy airs Wednesdays at 9 p.m. on ABC and is available to stream on Hulu. She was 90. !, while Quinta Brunson and Jurnee Smollett commented with congratulatory emojis. Sheryl Lee Ralph has had an impressive career, spanning several decades and multiple mediums. Copyright 2023 Interactive One, LLC. Sheryl Lees performance with Danny Glover in To Sleep with Anger won her the Independent Spirit Award for Best Supporting Actress. And at the ripe age of 65, the Jamaican-American star is still soaring across the entertainment industry with a bevy of award-winning projects. The Emmy-award-winning actress shared a photo from the ceremony with the caption,. Ms. Ralph, was awarded the first Red Ribbon Award at the UN for her unique use of the arts in HIV/AIDS activism. Ralph on Monday won the Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series as the character Barbara Howard in 'Abbott Elementary'. And Im just ready to bring the impossible to light, Ralph added. Her longevity in the industry makes it extra special to witness her receive all these well-deserved flowers. Born to Jamaican fashion designer Ivy Ralph and Stanley Ralph, an American college professor, the performer was raised between Mandeville, Jamaica, and Long Island, New York, according to the Jamaica Gleaner. Fans grew to love Ralph even more when she starred in the television series Moesha,playing the strong Black mother of the title character played by singer Brandy Norwood. After winning her first Emmy this past September, Hollister Partners With Midwest Kids on a Capsule Collection, The Best Street Style Looks From Fall 2023 Milan Fashion Week, Rihanna Is Back With Another Round of Fenty x Puma, Fear of God and Birkenstock Collab on Another Chic Rustic Shoe, Timberland Designed a Hip Hop Royalty Boot for Its 50th Anniversary, Kinfolk: Slutty Vegan CEO Pinky Cole and Partner Derrick Hayes on Their Revolutionary Black Love, Google's Black and Latinx Publishers Summit Shine a Light on the Importance of Storytelling, 5 Expert Ways to Manage Your Child's Seasonal Allergies, These Black Women Entrepreneurs Are Creatively Blazing Their Own Paths in Business. Copyright 2023 Interactive One, LLC. Guest roles onGood Times,Wonder WomanandThe Jeffersonsfollowed shortly after. However, before Vincent, Sheryl was married to Eric Maurice. #ThisisWhatBelievingLooksLike, Aside from Halle Bailey, Here Are Other Black Disney Actors and Characters We Love, Best Streaming Service for your Black Dollar in October, 15 Beloved Black Banned Books You Must Read Now [UPDATED], 15 Priceless Black Twitter Moments Worth Remembering. The show was such a success, that it ran for six seasons on UPN. Why TV Icon Deserves Her Flowers, 'Dilbert' Comic Creator Calls Black People A 'Hate Group,' Urges Segregation So Whites Can 'Escape', Bernie Mac Show Star Camille Winbush Is Not Ashamed Of Joining OnlyFans, Kyle Rittenhouse Faces 2nd Civil Lawsuit, Continues To Beg For Money From His Supporters, Ben Stein's 'Aunt Jemima' Rant Is A Master Class On White Privilege, Why Did tWitch Kill Himself? According to ABC 7 in Los Angeles, on Monday, the Emmy-winning actress was recognized with the Honorary Order of Jamaica, for her sterling contribution as an actress, cultural ambassador of Jamaica and for contribution to the international film industry. She celebrated the award on Instagram with a photo from the ceremony, which was captioned, Well, it is now official! At the ripe age of 65, the actress doesnt seem to be letting her foot off the gas anytime soon. At the ripe age of 65, the actress doesnt seem to be letting her foot off the gas anytime soon. As she continues to work in the entertainment industry, it is clear that Sheryl Lee Ralph will always be a force to be reckoned with. Her eye color is Dark Brownand hair color is Black. Sheryl Lee Ralph has had an impressive career, spanning several decades and multiple mediums. According to her IMBD page, Ralph missed her graduation to audition for a Skippy Peanut Butter commercial. On Oct. 17, Ralph received the nations fifth-highest honor, an award to citizens of Jamaica who have showed outstanding distinction at the Kings House in St. Andrew. Additionally, her advocacy work in the fight against HIV/AIDS has made a significant impact on the lives of those affected by the disease. (Jamaica Observer) ICONIC Jamaican fashion designer Ivy Ralph passed away yesterday at Nuttall Hospital in Cross Roads, St Andrew. The Emmy award-winning actress was among 143 Jamaicans who were honored at Jamaica's National Honours and Awards ceremony, which was held. All Rights Reserved. I am The Honourable Sheryl Lee Ralph OJ (Order of Jamaica) Warrior Woman! The Jamaican-American star is still soaring across the entertainment industry with a bevy of award-winning projects. Born to Jamaican fashion designer Ivy Ralph and Stanley Ralph, an American college professor, the performer was raised between Mandeville, Jamaica, and Long Island, New York . The following year, she landed her first TV role onBaa Baa Black Sheep. The beauty shined bright in a yellow dress and paired it with emerald green earrings in honor of her homeland. She was raised in Mandeville, Jamaica, and Long Island, New York. Born to Jamaican fashion designer Ivy Ralph and Stanley Ralph, an American college professor, the performer was raised between Mandeville, Jamaica, and Long Island, New York . walkgoodetienne . Select More options to see additional information, including details about managing your privacy settings. More recently, Ralph has continued to work in theater, appearing in the Broadway productions of Thoroughly Modern Millie, and Wicked. She also appeared in the television series Instant Mom, and Fam, and in the films Step Sisters, and Brian Banks. Additionally, Ralph is an advocate for HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention, having lost friends and fellow actors to the disease. The following year, Sheryl starred as the wife . What Happened To Wendy Williams? For them to be there and hear the response from people. In 1984, she made her film debut in A Soldiers Story, directed by Norman Jewison. Ralph also authored a successful book Redefining Diva: Live Lessons from the Original Dreamgirl in 2012. She blew her entire class away atUniondale High School in New York, where she she starred in the schools exciting production of Oklahoma. She also appeared in the television movie Olivers Story and in the ABC sitcom Its a Living.