As part of the classic 80’s sitcom ‘227,’ actress Jackee Harry gave life to one of TV’s most memorable supporting characters – the sassy “Sandra Clark.”
Noted for her fashion-forward ensembles, quick quips, and unmistakable voice, portrayal of “Clark” would eventually lead Harry into EMMY history books when she became the first Black woman to win the “Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy” trophy in 1987.
Holding on as the sole Black female winner in the category for nearly 40 years, that status changed Monday (September 12) when she was finally joined by another veteran screen star: Sheryl Lee Ralph.
Details inside.
At the Kenan Thompson-hosted 74th annual EMMY Awards Monday, the 65-year-old – who portrays “Barbara Howard” on the hit ABC comedy ‘Abbott Elementary’ – defeated Juno Temple, Janelle James, Sarah Niles, Alex Borstein, Kate McKinnon, Hannah Waddingham, and Hannah Einbinder to collect the 2022 EMMYs’ “Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series” trophy.
By doing so, she not only became the first Black woman this century to nab the honor but also followed Harry to become the second in the ceremony’s 74-year history to triumph in the category.
To toast Ralph’s victory, Jackee took to Twitter to give a much-needed history lesson.
Winning my Emmy was a career highlight, but it was also a lonely experience.
For 35 years I’ve been the only black woman to win Outstanding Supporting Actresses in a Comedy Series.
But that all changes tonight… and it’s come full circle! #Emmys pic.twitter.com/TiyCwASVTI
— Jackée Harry (@JackeeHarry) September 13, 2022
The network originally wanted @thesherylralph to play Sandra on 227, but I got the part and won an Emmy for it.
Now, Sheryl joins me as the 2nd black woman in this category and deservedly so! 🎉 I’m so exited for her #Emmys win!
— Jackée Harry (@JackeeHarry) September 13, 2022
The network originally wanted @thesherylralph to play Sandra on 227, but I got the part and won an Emmy for it.
.@thesherylralph’s had a remarkable career AND she’s one of the nicest people in Hollywood. Barbara Howard on #AbbottElementary is another fabulous character we’ve been fortunate to watch her breathe life into. 🙏🏾
Congrats, Sheryl & welcome to the club! #Emmys 🏆 #BlackGirlsRock pic.twitter.com/Tryb3DGig2
— Jackée Harry (@JackeeHarry) September 13, 2022
Click here to see the full list of 2022 winners.
