Sela Ward’s Career: Iconic Roles and Dedication to Philanthropy

Early Life and Education

Sela Ann Ward was born on July 11, 1956, in Meridian, Mississippi. The eldest of four children, she was raised in a close-knit Southern family with traditional values. Her mother, Annie Kate Ward, was a homemaker, and her father, Granberry Holland Ward, worked as an electrical engineer. Growing up, Ward enjoyed a creative and active childhood, demonstrating a natural talent for the arts and performance.

Ward attended the University of Alabama, majoring in fine arts and advertising. As an active student, she was involved in extracurricular activities and served as a cheerleader for the Crimson Tide football team. After graduating in 1977, she initially moved to New York City to pursue a career in advertising. However, her striking looks and charisma soon led her to modeling opportunities, eventually sparking her interest in acting.

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Early Acting Career

In the early 1980s, Ward moved to Los Angeles to pursue acting. She initially found success in modeling, which helped her gain visibility. In 1983, she secured her first significant role in the film The Man Who Loved Women, directed by Blake Edwards. While the film didn’t achieve major success, it provided Ward the exposure she needed to gain traction in Hollywood.

Ward soon landed a recurring role in the television series Emerald Point N.A.S. (1983-1984), where she portrayed Hilary Adams, a character that showcased her versatility. This role helped lay the foundation for her future success in both television and film.

Breakthrough with Sisters

Ward’s career breakthrough came in 1991 with her role as Teddy Reed in the NBC drama Sisters, which ran until 1996. The show followed the lives of four sisters navigating personal challenges. Ward’s portrayal of Teddy, a free-spirited woman dealing with life’s ups and downs, earned her widespread acclaim. Her nuanced performance earned her a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series in 1994.

The success of Sisters solidified Ward’s reputation as a skilled actress capable of portraying complex characters with depth and authenticity, making Teddy Reed one of the most beloved characters on television at the time.

Success with Once and Again

Following the success of Sisters, Ward continued to take on significant roles, including her portrayal of Lily Manning in the 1999 ABC drama Once and Again. The show focused on a divorced couple trying to build a new relationship while managing their responsibilities as parents. Ward’s portrayal of Lily was praised for its depth and sensitivity, earning her a second Primetime Emmy Award in 2000.

The show’s thoughtful exploration of relationships, combined with Ward’s compelling performance, made Once and Again a beloved drama that resonated with viewers and critics alike.

Feature Film Career

While Ward’s television career flourished, she also made notable appearances in feature films. In 1993, she appeared in the action thriller The Fugitive, where she played Helen Kimble, the wife of Harrison Ford’s character. Although her screen time was brief, her performance added emotional weight to the film.

Ward also appeared in the 2004 disaster film The Day After Tomorrow as Dr. Lucy Hall, a role that added a human element to the large-scale disaster narrative. Other notable film roles include The Stepfather (2009) and Independence Day: Resurgence (2016), where she portrayed the President of the United States.

Philanthropic Work

Outside of her acting career, Sela Ward is deeply committed to philanthropy, particularly supporting children in need. In 2000, she co-founded Hope Village for Children in her hometown of Meridian, Mississippi. The organization provides a safe haven for abused and neglected children, offering them shelter, education, and emotional support.

Ward remains actively involved in the organization, helping to raise awareness and funds for the cause. Her commitment to philanthropy extends beyond Hope Village, as she has also supported various causes related to education, healthcare, and the arts.

Recent Acting Projects

In 2019, Sela Ward made a return to television with a starring role in the CBS crime drama FBI, where she played Special Agent in Charge Dana Mosier. Her performance as a confident and empathetic leader was well-received, proving her continued relevance in the entertainment industry. After one season, she stepped away from the show to focus on her philanthropic efforts and spend more time with her family.

Balancing Family and Career

Throughout her career, Sela Ward has managed the challenge of balancing her professional commitments with family life. Married to entrepreneur Howard Sherman, with whom she has two children, Ward has made family a priority, often taking breaks from acting to ensure a healthy work-life balance.

Ward’s ability to navigate the complexities of Hollywood while staying grounded in her personal values serves as an inspiration to many. Her story demonstrates that it’s possible to build a successful career while remaining dedicated to the people and causes that matter most.