Legacy Talk with Lena Waithe: Building a Legacy with Sheryl Lee Ralph

Episode Overview: In this poignant episode of "Legacy Talk with Lena Waithe," host Etienne engages in an in-depth conversation with the illustrious actress Sheryl Lee Ralph. The discussion traverses Sheryl's remarkable journey in the entertainment industry, her resilience in the face of adversity, her iconic roles, and the enduring legacy she continues to build. This detailed summary encapsulates the essence of their dialogue, highlighting key moments, insightful reflections, and inspirational quotes.

1. Introduction and Personal Connections

The episode opens with a warm exchange between Etienne and Sheryl Lee Ralph, underscoring the personal connections that underpin their relationship. Sheryl references her collaboration on "Moesha" and emphasizes her relentless drive to succeed.

• Sheryl Lee Ralph (00:10): "You can do everything, so now do nothing. I was like, I'm a reward and an actress. Want me to do nothing?"

• Sheryl Lee Ralph (00:23): "Every single time. I want to make it. I want to be here."

Etienne praises Sheryl's ability to connect with others, a trait highlighted by Sheryl's son, who recognizes her natural affinity for building relationships.

• Sheryl Lee Ralph (01:07): "Etienne has a great spirit, a great heart, and he's a natural connector."

2. Early Career and Breaking Barriers

Sheryl delves into her early career challenges, particularly the pervasive racism she faced as a Black woman striving to make her mark on Broadway. She recounts the struggles of navigating an industry that often marginalized her talents.

• Sheryl Lee Ralph (03:12): "I'm a child of the 60s, so you face things like racism head-on, where people want you to know how different you are...they want to tell you what you can and cannot do."

Despite these obstacles, Sheryl remained steadfast in her pursuit of excellence, eventually securing her place in the Broadway production of "Dreamgirls."

3. The "Dreamgirls" Audition and Triumph

Sheryl shares a detailed account of her audition process for "Dreamgirls," highlighting both the emotional and professional hurdles she overcame to land her role.

• Sheryl Lee Ralph (05:01): "Deana became strong enough to fight for herself."

She describes being fired from previous productions and the pivotal moment when Michael Butler, the director known for "Hair," offered her a chance to audition for "Dreamgirls."

• Sheryl Lee Ralph (07:08): "So I sang Ave Maria. So when I finished, there was silence and I was asked to leave...But then Tom Ian came backstage and said, the show is terrible, but you are not."

This encouragement from industry veterans reaffirmed her belief in her talents, ultimately leading to her successful casting.

4. Overcoming Personal Loss and Professional Challenges

During the mid-1980s AIDS crisis, Broadway was deeply affected, and Sheryl faced the added emotional strain of losing friends to the disease. Despite the pervasive silence surrounding AIDS at the time, she continued to perform and create art.

• Sheryl Lee Ralph (04:06): "Nobody's going to like you talking about this, talking about AIDS."

Her commitment to her craft during such trying times exemplifies her resilience and dedication to her legacy.

5. Iconic Roles and Their Impact

Sheryl reflects on some of her most significant roles, including her performances in "To Sleep with Anger" and "Sister Act 2." She discusses the depth and complexity she brings to each character, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in her portrayals.

"To Sleep with Anger":

• Sheryl Lee Ralph (17:42): "I had to fight for that scene...I knew it was an important scene."

Her determination ensured that pivotal moments were captured, showcasing her ability to influence the narrative and bring critical issues to the forefront.

"Sister Act 2":

• Sheryl Lee Ralph (21:05): "Nothing wrong with my shade."

Sheryl highlights the importance of representation and authenticity in her roles, ensuring that her characters reflect genuine experiences and struggles.

6. Transitioning Between Mediums: From Stage to Screen

Sheryl discusses the challenges and nuances of transitioning from Broadway stage performances to television and film. She explains the differences in acting techniques required for each medium and how she adapted to maintain her authenticity.

• Sheryl Lee Ralph (28:04): "People don't understand that you go in, you rehearse...It's like throwing a ball."

Her ability to seamlessly move between different acting environments speaks to her versatility and deep understanding of her craft.

7. Philosophy on Acting and Personal Growth

A central theme of the conversation revolves around Sheryl's philosophy on acting and personal development. She emphasizes the importance of being prepared, authentic, and continuously honing one's craft.

• Sheryl Lee Ralph (32:35): "Don't act. Learn your lines, understand the character. Now be."

Sheryl advises aspiring actors to focus on authenticity and self-awareness, ensuring that their performances resonate with genuine emotion and truth.

8. Recent Projects and "Abbott Elementary"

Sheryl shares insights into her recent work on "Abbott Elementary," highlighting the collaborative chemistry with Quinta Brunson and the show's impact. She recounts how a fortuitous meeting with Quinta led to the creation of a show that has resonated deeply with audiences.

• Sheryl Lee Ralph (37:45): "I met Quinta Brunson. That that's what happens."

Their shared commitment to authenticity and representation has made "Abbott Elementary" a standout success, further cementing Sheryl's legacy in the industry.

9. Motherhood and Mentorship

Throughout the episode, Sheryl emphasizes the importance of motherhood and mentorship in her life. She draws parallels between her on-screen roles and her real-life experiences as a mother, highlighting how each informs and enriches the other.

• Sheryl Lee Ralph (31:14): "I see Issa, I see Quinta. I'm like, look at my daughters."

Her nurturing approach both on and off the screen serves as a foundation for the meaningful relationships she builds within the industry.

10. Defining a Great Actress

In the concluding sections of the conversation, Sheryl articulates her definition of a truly great actress. She underscores the necessity of self-awareness, continuous learning, and genuine connection with others.

• Sheryl Lee Ralph (44:46): "You've got to know yourself. You got to know who you are. You have to like yourself."

Her words serve as both inspiration and guidance for aspiring actors, emphasizing that greatness stems from within and is reflected through authentic performances.

11. Final Reflections and Legacy

As the conversation wraps up, Sheryl reflects on her journey, the milestones she's achieved, and the legacy she continues to build. Her humility and recognition of her role as a trailblazer for future generations of Black women in entertainment shine through.

• Sheryl Lee Ralph (31:09): "Look at my kids. I'm a good mother, baby. You are."

Her commitment to excellence, resilience, and mentorship ensures that her legacy will inspire and empower generations to come.

Conclusion

This episode of "Legacy Talk with Lena Waithe" offers a profound exploration of Sheryl Lee Ralph's storied career, her unwavering commitment to her craft, and the lasting impact she's making in the entertainment industry. Through her candid reflections and insightful revelations, Sheryl not only shares her personal journey but also imparts invaluable wisdom on overcoming adversity, the essence of authentic acting, and the importance of building a meaningful legacy.