Sheryl Lee Ralph Hints at a Shocking Style Transformation for Barbara on “Abbott Elementary”
Hold onto your pearls, folks! Sheryl Lee Ralph, the Emmy-winning queen of “Abbott Elementary,” is dropping some spicy teasers about her character, Barbara Howard. Just before strutting her stuff at the 2025 SAG Awards, where her show snagged a nomination for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series, Ralph spilled the tea on the red carpet: “Barbara Howard gets a brand new look.” And if her saying it isn’t enough to pique your curiosity, she adds, “You will be shocked when you see it.” Consider the hype real!
This juicy reveal comes from an actress who’s no stranger to stunning style — both on-screen and off. Ralph’s character is known for her impeccable wardrobe choices, and she elaborated on the significance of Barbara’s looks against the show’s backdrop of determined teachers in a struggling Philadelphia school. “It says so much,” Ralph noted, emphasizing Barbara’s love for pearls. This nod to pearls isn’t merely about bling; it symbolizes empowerment and resilience, harking back to a time when women of color often had to find strength in subtle ways, even through fashion.
Kudos to the show’s costume mastermind, Hachy Mendez, for keeping Barbara’s style elevated just the right amount — a small yet impactful transformation that reflects the character’s growth. Ralph remarked, “You know, there used to be a time when women of color didn’t have much, but if they could have a string of pearls — the whole thing of ‘clutch my pearls’ — it said something about who they were as women.” So, expect this new look to be more than just a fashion statement; it’s a narrative arc wrapped in fabric.
Off-screen, Ralph relies on her daughter, Ivy Coco Maurice, for her personal styling — talk about family goals! Rocking a stunning Sergio Hudson ensemble at the SAG Awards, pearls included, Ralph knows how to serve looks that are both glamorous and deeply meaningful. “Abbott Elementary” continues to capture hearts with its unique blend of comedy and social commentary, with episodes streaming on Hulu for your binge-watching pleasure. So get ready for that big reveal — it sounds like Barbara’s newest style is going to be a must-see!
Sources: Celebrity Storm Wire and Entertainment Weekly, Variety, E! Online
