Sheryl Lee Ralph, the Emmy-winning star of Abbott Elementary, has ignited a fiery Hollywood conversation after making statements about the fastest way to an Oscar.
The bold statement, made during a post-Oscars interview with ABC’s Joelle Garguilo, has divided fans and industry insiders, raising questions about the roles that earn awards recognition—and why.
At the 97th Academy Awards, Ralph, 68, expressed mixed feelings about the night’s outcomes. While celebrating Wicked costume designer Paul Tazewell’s win, she hinted at frustration over the film’s limited accolades.
“I was disappointed that Wicked didn’t get more, but I was absolutely excited for Paul Tazewell,” said Ralph, 68, in a clip circulating online. Then, unprompted, she dropped her bombshell.
“I have told people over and over again: The fastest way to an Oscar is either on a pole or… sex sells, baby. Sex sells.”
The remark rapidly gained traction online, prompting numerous people to speculate whether she was alluding to sexual work in films, graphic scenes, or the industry’s inclination towards suggestive acts.
Though Ralph didn’t name specific films or genders, her comments arrived hours after Anora, a gritty drama about a sex worker (Mikey Madison) entangled with a Russian oligarch’s son, swept five major awards, including Best Picture and Best Actress for Madison. The 25-year-old star had previously made waves for opting out of an intimacy coordinator during the film’s explicit scenes, calling the choice “necessary for authenticity.”
Mikey Madison’s Best Actress win was a significant surprise that evening since Moore, 62, the star of The Substance, was the strong favorite to win the award after securing all the major honors except a BAFTA leading up to Sunday’s event.
This isn’t the first time that an actress has received an Oscar for portraying a sex worker or assuming a highly sexual role. Previous winners of the Oscar, such as Halle Berry (Monster’s Ball), Charlize Theron (Monster), and Jane Fonda (Klute), have depicted characters involved in intricate sexual or provocative storylines.
You think you ate with this quote, but Sheryl Lee Ralph didn't specify any gender in her interview, she just said "sex sells", and she's right.
— Andy
I'd also like you to tell me about the many Oscar-winning male actors who have played sex workers in movies, 'cause I haven't seen any. https://t.co/udLLk78HYz(@Andyquoi) March 6, 2025
Anora’s dominance at the Oscars, coupled with Madison’s fearless portrayal, has intensified scrutiny. The film’s raw exploration of power, desire, and vulnerability earned acclaim. However, its success amid Ralph’s comments raises uncomfortable questions: Is Hollywood still prioritizing stories that commodify women’s bodies, even when told with nuance?
