Best known as Deena Jones in Dreamgirls (1982) on Broadway, as the voice of Rita Loud in The Loud House, and as Barbara Howard in Abbott Elementary (2021–present).
Films
- Brotherly LoveCatherine2015
- The Secret Life of BeesMiss Lacy2008
- Sister Act 2: Back in the HabitFlorence Watson1993
- The Distinguished GentlemanMiss Loretta1992
- The Mighty QuinnLola Quinn1989
- The Brother from Another PlanetMedic1984
- A Piece of the ActionBarbara1977
TV shows
- Abbott ElementaryBarbara Howard2021–
- The Loud HouseRita Loud (voice)2016–
- Ray DonovanClaudia2016
- Instant MomMaggie Turner2013–2015
- PsychPaulette2013
- Criminal MindsAttorneys2012
- The New Adventures of Old ChristineRuby2006
- EREvelyn Pratt2002
- MoeshaDodie1999–2001
- Designing WomenEtienne Toussaint Bouvier1986–1989
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About Sheryl Lee Ralph
Sheryl Lee Ralph is an American actress and singer, though she has worked extensively in the UK theatre scene and on British television. She rose to fame originating the role of Deena Jones in the Broadway musical Dreamgirls and later starred in films like The Mighty Quinn and Sister Act 2. She currently stars as Barbara Howard in the hit sitcom Abbott Elementary, winning an Emmy Award.
FAQs
Did Sheryl Lee Ralph win an Emmy for Abbott Elementary?
Yes, she won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series in 2022 for her role as Barbara Howard.
Is Sheryl Lee Ralph the same person who originated the role in Dreamgirls?
Yes, she originated the role of Deena Jones in the original 1981 Broadway production of Dreamgirls, for which she received a Tony Award nomination.
Has Sheryl Lee Ralph appeared in any UK television shows?
Yes, she appeared in the BBC series Doctor Who (1985 serial ‘The Two Doctors’) as a character named ‘Maren’ / ‘Androgum’ and has worked in British theatre.
What is her most famous voice role?
She voices Rita Loud in the Nickelodeon animated series The Loud House and its spin-offs, a role she has played since 2016.
Did Sheryl Lee Ralph sing in Sister Act 2?
Yes, she performed the song ‘Oh Happy Day’ as part of the choir in Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit.
Sources & where to watch: IMDb · Wikipedia · Where to watch (JustWatch UK) · Updated June 2026