Robert De Niro shared unforgettable advice with Sheryl Lee Ralph, providing her with valuable career guidance that she still holds dear. Speaking exclusively to PEOPLE at the 2025 Gotham TV Awards ceremony in New York City, Ralph, an Emmy-winning actress, recounted the impactful moment from 33 years ago. During the filming of Mistress in 1992, alongside De Niro, Danny Aiello, Eli Wallach, and Jean Smart, De Niro looked at Ralph between scenes and remarked, “Hollywood’s not looking for the Black girl. So, you better climb that mountain and wave the red flag, and let them know that you’re there.”
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The Gotham TV Awards event held a special significance for Ralph, who was honoured with the Sidney Poitier Icon Tribute. She reflected on how Poitier played a pivotal role in kickstarting her Hollywood journey by casting her in her first movie, “A Piece of the Action,” choosing her over his own daughter, Pamela. This gesture from Poitier served as a significant inspiration for Ralph, setting her on a path towards a successful and enduring career in the entertainment industry.
The seasoned actress has had a remarkable career, with recent accolades including an Emmy win for her performance in Abbott Elementary. Despite her successes, Ralph remains determined and focused on continuing her journey, sharing, “It’s not over until you say it’s over.” Her resilience and determination to break barriers and create opportunities in an industry that can be challenging and exclusive serve as a testament to her strength and passion for her craft.
Ralph’s recollection of De Niro’s advice serves as a reminder of the importance of advocating for oneself and making a mark in an industry that may not always be welcoming to diversity. By sharing this anecdote, Ralph highlights the significance of perseverance and self-belief in pursuing one’s dreams and carving out a space in a competitive and sometimes unforgiving industry.
The Sidney Poitier Icon Tribute bestowed upon Ralph symbolises not only her individual achievements but also the legacy of trailblazers in the entertainment industry who paved the way for future generations. Ralph’s dedication to her craft and her commitment to diversity and representation serve as an inspiration to aspiring actors and actresses who may face similar challenges and obstacles in their careers.
As Ralph continues to make her mark in Hollywood and beyond, her journey stands as a testament to the power of resilience, self-belief, and perseverance in the face of adversity. Her unwavering commitment to her craft and her ability to navigate the complexities of the entertainment industry with grace and determination serve as an example for aspiring artists and creators striving to make their voices heard and their stories told.
The wisdom shared by De Niro all those years ago continues to resonate with Ralph, reminding her of the importance of standing out, making her presence known, and asserting her place in an industry that may not always be welcoming to diversity. Through her work and her advocacy, Ralph continues to inspire and uplift those around her, showcasing the transformative power of representation and inclusivity in the world of entertainment.