50 Things You Didn’t Know About Angela Bassett

1️⃣ Born in New York: Angela Bassett was born on August 16, 1958, in Harlem, New York City.

2️⃣ Raised in Florida: Although born in New York, she grew up in St. Petersburg, Florida.

3️⃣ Inspired by James Earl Jones: A high school visit from James Earl Jones motivated her to pursue acting.

4️⃣ Yale Alumna: Bassett earned her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Yale University, studying under renowned professor Lloyd Richards.

5️⃣ Classmate with Meryl Streep: While at Yale, she crossed paths with Meryl Streep, who was a graduate student.

6️⃣ First Breakthrough Role: Angela's portrayal of Tina Turner in What's Love Got to Do with It (1993) earned her an Academy Award nomination.

7️⃣ Golden Globe Winner: She won the Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy for her role as Tina Turner.

8️⃣ The First Black Marvel Queen: Bassett played Queen Ramonda in the Black Panther franchise, becoming a Marvel icon.

9️⃣ Academy Award Nominee Again: She received her second Oscar nomination for Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.

🔟 Trailblazer: Angela was the first Black actress to win a Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy.

1️⃣1️⃣ Broadway Debut: She made her Broadway debut in Joe Turner's Come and Gone by August Wilson.

1️⃣2️⃣ Passionate About History: She has starred in numerous biopics, including Malcolm X and The Rosa Parks Story.

1️⃣3️⃣ Role as Betty Shabazz: She played Malcolm X’s wife, Betty Shabazz, in Malcolm X (1992).

1️⃣4️⃣ Real-Life Friends with Tina Turner: Bassett developed a close relationship with Tina Turner while portraying her.

1️⃣5️⃣ Producer and Director: Angela has also worked behind the scenes, directing films like Whitney (2015).

1️⃣6️⃣ Award-Winning Performances: She has won multiple NAACP Image Awards for her powerful portrayals.

1️⃣7️⃣ Science Fiction Star: Angela starred in Kathryn Bigelow’s Strange Days (1995), cementing her versatility.

1️⃣8️⃣ Television Roles: She has appeared in hit TV shows like American Horror Story and 9-1-1.

1️⃣9️⃣ Loving Wife: Angela married actor Courtney B. Vance in 1997, and they remain one of Hollywood’s power couples.

2️⃣0️⃣ Mother of Twins: She has twins, Bronwyn and Slater, born via surrogate in 2006.

2️⃣1️⃣ Theatre Enthusiast: Angela’s love for theater started during her high school years.

2️⃣2️⃣ Fitness Fanatic: She credits her toned physique to a disciplined workout routine and healthy eating.

2️⃣3️⃣ Vocal Advocate for Equality: Angela is outspoken about racial and gender equality in Hollywood.

2️⃣4️⃣ Voice Work: She lent her voice to characters in BoJack Horseman and Bumblebee.

2️⃣5️⃣ Missed Opportunities: She turned down the role of Leticia Musgrove in Monster's Ball, later won by Halle Berry.

2️⃣6️⃣ Author: Angela co-authored a book, Friends: A Love Story, with her husband.

2️⃣7️⃣ Award Recognition: She has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, awarded in 2008.

2️⃣8️⃣ Philanthropist: Bassett supports causes like youth arts education and health advocacy.

2️⃣9️⃣ Fierce in How Stella Got Her Groove Back: Angela’s performance as Stella remains iconic.

3️⃣0️⃣ Frequently Collaborates: She often works with filmmaker Ryan Murphy on projects like American Horror Story.

3️⃣1️⃣ Master of Accents: Her ability to master various accents has been praised by directors and critics alike.

3️⃣2️⃣ Emmy Nominee: Angela has received several Emmy nominations, including for American Horror Story: Coven.

3️⃣3️⃣ Inspiration to Many: Bassett has become a role model for young Black actresses.

3️⃣4️⃣ Her Father’s Absence: She channeled her emotions from her father’s absence into her roles.

3️⃣5️⃣ Educator at Heart: Angela once considered teaching before fully committing to acting.

3️⃣6️⃣ Historical Roles: She portrayed historical figures like Katherine Jackson and Rosa Parks.

3️⃣7️⃣ Devoted to Faith: Angela credits her spirituality as a source of strength.

3️⃣8️⃣ Television Producer: She is an executive producer on 9-1-1, which she also stars in.

3️⃣9️⃣ Unstoppable at 60+: Angela continues to redefine age and success in Hollywood.

4️⃣0️⃣ Memorable Voice: She narrates audiobooks, including The Bible Experience.

4️⃣1️⃣ Harvard Honorary Degree: Angela received an honorary doctorate from Harvard University in 2018.

4️⃣2️⃣ Inspired by Sidney Poitier: She cites Sidney Poitier as one of her biggest inspirations.

4️⃣3️⃣ Refused Roles with Stereotypes: She turned down roles that she felt perpetuated negative stereotypes.

4️⃣4️⃣ Considers Her Mother Her Hero: Her mother’s sacrifices greatly influenced Angela’s determination.

4️⃣5️⃣ Worked with Iconic Directors: Angela has collaborated with directors like John Singleton and Spike Lee.

4️⃣6️⃣ Golden Voice in Soul: She voiced Dorothea Williams in Pixar’s Soul (2020).

4️⃣7️⃣ Style Icon: Known for her stunning red carpet looks, Angela has become a fashion trailblazer.

4️⃣8️⃣ Role in Mission: Impossible: Angela appeared as CIA Director Erika Sloane in Mission: Impossible – Fallout.

4️⃣9️⃣ Honorary Chair: She serves as an honorary chair of several arts organizations.

5️⃣0️⃣ Enduring Legacy: Angela Bassett’s career is a testament to resilience, talent, and passion, inspiring generations to come.