Sheryl Lee Ralph Says "Abbott Elementary" Is the "Only Real Comedy" Nominated at the 2026 Emmys

Sheryl Lee Ralph has never been shy, and Monday night on the Emmys red carpet she made that clear once again. The“Abbott Elementary”star told E! News she’s“looking forward to a win since we’re the only real comedy in the category.”When reporter Justin Sylvester said“you heard it here first,”Ralph doubled down with a quick“Yeah you did!”The moment lit up social media before the show even started at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles.

She’s got a case, too.“Abbott Elementary”is a classic half-hour sitcom, shot in that mockumentary style, powered by sharp writing and a cast that knows how to land a punchline. Its competition for Outstanding Comedy Series includes“The Bear,”a show plenty of viewers argue is really a drama, along with“Hacks,”“Shrinking,”“Only Murders in the Building”and four others. The ABC series has been nominated every year since 2021 and has never taken home the top prize, though Ralph herself won Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series in 2022. This year the show is up for seven awards, including two for creator and star Quinta Brunson.

However the night shakes out, Ralph gave everyone something to talk about, and she reminded us why red carpet moments stick with people. Sometimes believing in your people out loud is the best strategy there is. So what do you think: is“Abbott Elementary”the only true comedy in that lineup? Sound off in the comments and let us know where you land.