After becoming just the second Black woman to win an Emmy for Supporting Actress in a Comedy last year, Abbott Elementary actor Sheryl Lee Ralph shared her elation when Ayo Edebiri of The Bear became the third after winning the coveted prize on Monday night.
Ralph, who was also nominated in the same category at this year's Emmy Awards, conveyed her joy and pride for Edebiri's well-deserved victory.
Sharing a post on Instagram featuring images of both actors, Ralph expressed:
It took 35 years for me to be the second Black actress to win an Emmy for Supporting Actress in Comedy. And a year later I am very proud and very happy to celebrate [Ayo Edebiri] in her incredible win!"
You can see her post below.
Edebiri graciously responded to Ralph's gesture, expressing her gratitude and love in the comments section:
“Love you Sheryl. So grateful for you!!!!!!”
You can see her response below.
@ayoedebiri/Instagram
Ralph also took to X, formerly Twitter, to praise Edebiri, saying "Proud and happy to pass the [torch] because when one shines, we all shine!!!"
Many were touched by Ralph's post and expressed love and support for both actors.
In her acceptance speech at the Emmy Awards, Edebiri dedicated her win to her parents, acknowledging the challenges they faced as immigrants. She shared heartfelt sentiments, expressing love for her parents and their unwavering support in making her feel proud, "beautiful and Black."
Both Ralph and Edebiri represent the strides made in acknowledging Black talent within the entertainment industry.
Similarly, Ralph's co-star, Abbott Elementary creator and writer Quinta Brunson, became the first Black Comedy Lead Actress winner in 40 years. Isabel Sanford made history as the first and, until now, sole Black recipient of the award, securing the win for her performance in Norman Lear's iconic series The Jeffersons in 1981.
