‘The Network Originally Wanted Sheryl Lee Ralph to Play Sandra on ‘227’: Jackée Harry Congratulates Sheryl Lee Ralph After Winning Emmy In Same Category She Won for 35 Years Ago

Legendary actress Jackée Harry made Sheryl Lee Ralph’s win at the Sept. 12 Primetime Emmy Awards just a bit sweeter after taking to her Twitter account to celebrate the “full- circle” moment. 

During the 74th-annual event, Ralph won the “Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series” for her role as Mrs. Barbara Howard on the hit comedy series “Abbott Elementary,” a career first for the Broadway star. 

Harry tweeted a photo of herself with the Emmy she won in 1987, recalling the moment she won hers in the same category some three decades ago.

“Winning my Emmy was a career highlight, but it was also a lonely experience,” the “Sister, Siter” star wrote. “For 35 years I’ve been the only black woman to win Outstanding Supporting Actresses in a Comedy Series. But that all changes tonight… and it’s come full circle! #Emmys.”

The “227” star further elaborated in a second post, revealing that “The network originally wanted @thesherylralph to play Sandra on 227, but I got the part and won an Emmy for it.” She added, “Now, Sheryl joins me as the 2nd black woman in this category and deservedly so! I’m so excited for her #Emmys win!”

The “Sister, Sister” actress concluded her celebratory remarks by praising her sister in comedy. “@thesherylralph’s had a remarkable career AND she’s one of the nicest people in Hollywood,” the 66-year-old star shared. 

“Barbara Howard on #AbbottElementary is another fabulous character we’ve been fortunate to watch her breathe life into. Congrats, Sheryl & welcome to the club! #Emmys #BlackGirlsRock,” she added along with a photo of the Emmy winner donning a big smile. 

Harry’s post thread went viral. Fans on social media were in awe of the actress’ support for Ralph during her milestone moment. “What an absolutely gorgeous way to honor a friend and a legend,” wrote one Twitter user. “Thank you for sharing your thoughts & your joy.”

https://twitter.com/jillybobww/status/1569489027035987968?s=20&t=x6WfjM2ECB501ZGqjPFYzA

I just love and adore you so much @JackeeHarry your grace, integrity, love and support for your peers is truly divine!

“Abbott Elementary” received a total of seven nominations and three wins, including “Outstanding Casting For A Comedy Series” and “Outstanding Writing For A Comedy Series.”

Back to top