Sheryl Lee Ralph Shares a Fun Secret to Navigating Red Carpet Events at the Critics Choice Awards 2026

Sheryl Lee Ralph.
Credit:

Frazer Harrison/Getty

In Brief

• Sheryl Lee Ralph shared her red carpet preparation techniques.
• In an interview with E! at the Critics Choice Awards 2026, Ralph revealed she uses ‘Lidocaine’ and adhesive to secure her shoes.
• Styled by her daughter Ivy “Coco” Maurice, Ralph wore a striking Tony Ward Couture gown.

Sheryl Lee Ralph showcased her unique approach to red carpet fashion during a recent interview with E! at the Critics Choice Awards 2026. The 69-year-old actress, well-known for her role in Abbott Elementary, divulged two key hacks that allow her to conquer uncomfortable footwear.

“When you’re coming down these red carpets, it’s not time for hiccups,” Ralph said, explaining that she relies on Lidocaine for any potential discomfort from her shoes. “I spray the shoe with spray adhesive, get my foot in, and there is no flip-floppage.”

Ralph’s appearance at the glamorous ceremony, where Abbott Elementary is nominated for Best Comedy Series, was a standout moment. She turned heads in a plum Tony Ward Couture gown designed by her daughter, Ivy “Coco” Maurice. The gown featured intricate beading on the halter neckline and stylish embellishments on its flared, pocketed skirt, which cleverly concealed her footwear.

Her long ponytail complemented her dramatic statement earrings, adding to her elegant look.

Sheryl Lee Ralph.

Frazer Harrison/Getty

In a previous interview with PEOPLE, Ralph praised her daughter Coco for transforming her style. “She has given me a look that other women look at and say, ‘Oh my God, I need to try that,’” Ralph noted, expressing her pride in Coco’s influence. “I did not waste one dollar on her education. Not one dollar was wasted.”

Alongside Coco, Ralph has another son, Etienne, with her ex-husband, Eric Maurice. While her children are connected to the industry through their mother’s legacy, Ralph emphasized their independence, stating, “They’re not using nepotism. They’re doing it themselves, and I just respect them so much for that.”

“Sometimes I say, ‘Well, can I help?’ They’re like, ‘No, mom, we got this,’” she added, clearly proud of their self-sufficiency.