Sheryl Lee Ralph Shares Her Thoughts on Embracing Change and Growth

Sheryl Lee Ralph exudes a vibrant energy and grace that captivates all who encounter her. The 69-year-old Emmy-winning actress, known for her decades-long career, has reached a new audience through her role as Barbara Howard on *Abbott Elementary*. In her portrayal, Ralph embodies a poised teacher, while off-screen she brings a grounded presence marked by intention and personal growth.

“Busy is an understatement,” Ralph remarked with a laugh while discussing her typical day on set. “The work is the work, and the work is expansive. A lot of people think it’s just a matter of playing, but it’s actually a craft. It is actually work, showing up to a set ready to do your job—very much like any other job.”

For Ralph, the pursuit of excellence is non-negotiable. “We don’t get the chance not to be on our A-game because the camera catches everything, and you have to bring your best to work. There’s no other option. People get fired for less,” she emphasized. “People get replaced for less—and it happens all the time.”

Her day begins long before dawn; if call time is 5 a.m., her alarm rings at 3:30 a.m. “You have to take the time to get yourself together—sometimes it’s an hour, sometimes it’s 45 minutes—and then there is the drive,” Ralph explained. Once on set, the routine includes wardrobe changes and an hour of makeup, followed by another 30 minutes for hair styling. “Usually, makeup takes about an hour and hair takes another 30 minutes. You get your wig on, go back to your dressing room, and sometimes they’ll call you for rehearsal. It’s the first two hours of your day and then it’s rolling on the hill from there!”

These long hours make sleep a valuable commodity. “You have to memorize those lines,” she noted. Filming a full network season of *Abbott Elementary*, which spans 22 episodes, presents a significant challenge. “We’re a dinosaur,” Ralph remarked, highlighting the rarity of such extensive network comedies.

This season brings new developments for Barbara Howard. “I love playing Barbara,” Ralph said. “In her own words, she said, ‘Last year I had a bit of a down year, but this year it is a new chapter in the world of Barbara.’ I just love the glow-up that she’s having.” Ralph appreciates the updates to Barbara’s appearance, including changes in her hair, makeup, and wardrobe. “She’s come to terms with the pearls of it all and balanced that out.”

Ralph finds this evolution relatable. “Very often, it’s easy to get stuck in a look as you grow,” she observed. “I always remember when I was a little girl, my mother would say, ‘Don’t grow up to be the blue-shadow woman.’ Time went by, and she was still stuck in icy-blue eyeshadow. I love the fact that Barbara’s not stuck. She’s changing with the times.”

This adaptability extends into Ralph’s personal life. “My real life starts for me as soon as they say, ‘That’s a wrap,’” she explained. “I take off the hair, I take off those clothes, I’m back in my own clothes, my own hair and I’m ready to go.” She emphasizes the importance of leaving the character on set and returning to her true self.

Ralph makes self-care a priority, recognizing its necessity. “A lot of people don’t pay attention to things like massage,” she said, advocating for the importance of physical care. “Trust me, your body needs it. Your body needs care, time, and attention.” The same extends to skincare, urging people to consider not just their faces but also their necks and décolletages. “You have to get the best kind of product that works for you. And drink your water! Hydration is so important for the body.”

Ralph’s busy schedule includes not only filming but also traveling to maintain her marriage with Pennsylvania State Senator Vincent Hughes, based in Philadelphia. “Sometimes, the flying back and forth can be difficult—especially when there are lots of delays,” she acknowledged. “Yes, I plan on staying married, so yes, I take the flight,” she added with a smile.

With decades of experience, Ralph offers wisdom to her younger self: “Be patient,” she advises. “Be patient with others, but especially be patient with yourself. Don’t compare yourself with anybody. The only person you need to compete with is yourself.”