Actors’ Equity Association and the Actors’ Equity Foundation have announced that Sheryl Lee Ralph will receive the 2026 Paul Robeson Award. The annual honor recognizes individuals or organizations that use theater to advance social justice and uphold freedom of expression, reflecting the legacy of Paul Robeson. The award, first presented in 1974, is jointly administered by the union and the foundation.
Ralph is an Emmy Award-winning actor and activist whose work spans stage, television and film. She currently appears in the television series “Abbott Elementary,” for which she received the Primetime Emmy Award for supporting actress in a comedy series. She previously originated the role of Deena Jones in the Broadway production of “Dreamgirls,” earning a Tony Award nomination. Her additional Broadway credits include “Reggae,” “Thoroughly Modern Millie” (originating the role of Muzzy Van Hossmere) and “Wicked.”
Ralph has co-produced on Broadway productions including “Thoughts of a Colored Man” and “Ohio State Murders.” She is also the founder of the D.I.V.A. Foundation, a nonprofit organization focused on HIV and AIDS awareness as well as broader issues including public health, gender and racial equity and LGBTQ+ advocacy.
“To be honored by Actors’ Equity Association with an award bearing Mr. Paul Robeson’s name is truly both an honor and a blessing,” Ralph said in a statement. “Mr. Robeson stood in purpose, truth and dignity. I stand in that same lineage through my work, my voice, my art and activism.”
Actor Richard E. Waits, who nominated Ralph, said she “exemplifies Paul Robeson’s mission by leveraging theatre as a vehicle for moral agency and cultural truth.”
Ralph will be honored at a ceremony later this year.
Actors’ Equity Association, founded in 1913, represents more than 51,000 professional actors and stage managers. The Actors’ Equity Foundation, established in 1962, supports the professional theater community through grants and services.
