Sheryl Lee Ralph’s Advice on the Fastest Way to Win an Oscar: ‘Sex Sells, Baby’

Sheryl Lee Ralph’s recent comments about the Oscars are sparking a debate online about what kinds of roles people should take on to win the prestigious award.

Following the 97th Academy Awards, the Abbott Elementary actress spoke with ABC reporter Joelle Garguilo about her thoughts on the ceremony. 

“I was disappointed that Wicked didn't get more, but I was absolutely excited for [costume designer] Paul Tazewell,” said Ralph, 68, in a clip circulating online. “But I have told people over and over again the fastest way to an Oscar is either on a pole or have—I'm telling you: sex sells, baby. Sex sells.”

The verdict is out on whether the Emmy-winning actress was talking about playing a sex worker or just performing an on-screen sex scene. It's also worth noting she never mentioned a specific gender in the viral clip.

However, Ralph’s remarks are seemingly about Anora, which swept five major awards at the ceremony including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, Best Film Editing, and Best Actress for Mikey Madison.

Madison, at the mere age of 25, won for her portrayal of a sex worker who falls for the son of a Russian oligarch. The actress made headlines last December for stating that she opted not to use an intimacy coordinator while shooting the film’s sex scenes.

Here are some of the reactions to Ralph’s comments.