Macy’s annual Thanksgiving Day Parade piqued viewers’ interest with its history-making feature appearance. This year, to cap off the procession and usher in the holiday season, “Abbott Elementary” star Sheryl Lee Ralph stunned onlookers by dressing as Mrs. Claus and riding Santa Claus’ sleigh together.
The actress first hinted at her appearance on social media, according to CBS. The post read, “The @Macys Thanksgiving Parade is starting with a surprise ending!!!” jingle bells y’all!”
Ralph is the first celebrity to appear on the final float in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, and the first Black Mrs. Claus, according to People.
She told the outlet, “I am so honored to have been asked by Macy’s to be their first celebrity Mrs. Claus for this year’s Thanksgiving Day Parade! It’s such a festive and enjoyable role, bringing warmth and joy to the start of the holiday season. I get to spread love and embody the spirit of giving. The perfect role for me!”
Fans who enjoyed the parade reacted on social media after seeing the actress portray the popular Mrs. Claus character in a festive green coat.
One fan commented, “The Mrs. Claus we all deserve. We were SO EXCITED to see you!!!”
While another expressed, “This was the best surprise at the end of the parade.” One impressed fan remarked, “Okay you are officially Mrs. Clause forever. Cuz I don’t want anyone else after seeing this. ”
Last year, Ralph won the Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series in 2022 for her portrayal of Philadelphia public school teacher Barbara Howard in “Abbot Elementary.” She became only the second Black woman in history to win in the category.
She also took home the Critics Choice Award for Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series for the role in 2023.
The star actress is married to Pennsylvania State Senator Vincent Hughes.
