Angela Bassett Reflects on Role as Black Woman President in ‘Zero Day’
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Angela Bassett, the renowned actress, recently shared her thoughts on portraying a Black female president in the upcoming Netflix political thriller ‘Zero Day’. The 66-year-old star discussed her role at the show’s premiere event held at The Plaza Hotel in New York City, reflecting on the timely nature of her character amidst real-world events.
Bassett expressed her amazement at the parallels between her role and former Vice President Kamala Harris’ 2024 presidential campaign, stating, “It’s something that we were so close to actually achieving in reality.” She emphasized the significance of her portrayal, highlighting the potential impact of seeing a Black woman in such a position of power on screen.
The actress conveyed her gratitude for the opportunity to embody a fictional president, acknowledging the importance of representation for women and minorities. She shared her optimism for the future, suggesting that the portrayal of strong female characters like her own may pave the way for actual leadership changes in the United States.
‘Zero Day’ is a limited series featuring Robert De Niro as former U.S. President George Mullen, who leads the Zero Day Commission in a cyberattack investigation. Bassett plays Evelyn Mitchell, the resolute current president who assigns Mullen to the case. The show promises a thrilling narrative as Mullen navigates through a web of deceit and personal challenges to uncover the truth.
Joining Bassett and De Niro in the cast are talented actors such as Jesse Plemons, Lizzy Caplan, Connie Britton, Joan Allen, and Matthew Modine. The series creators, Eric Newman, Noah Oppenheim, and Michael S. Schmidt, along with De Niro and director Lesli Linka Glatter, have crafted a gripping storyline that delves into the intersection of power and deception.
Known for her remarkable performances on both the big and small screens, Bassett has captivated audiences with roles in iconic films like ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It’, ‘How Stella Got Her Groove Back’, and the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Her versatility as an actress has been recognised with numerous accolades, including an honorary Oscar in 2024.
In a candid interview for a special issue of PEOPLE on Women Changing the World, Bassett reflected on her career and work ethic, stating, “You have to know what to say no to as well as what to say yes to.” Her dedication to her craft and willingness to take on challenging roles have solidified her status as a powerhouse in the entertainment industry.
‘Zero Day’ is set to premiere on Netflix on February 20, offering viewers a compelling narrative with a stellar cast and timely themes. As Angela Bassett continues to inspire audiences with her portrayal of strong and influential characters, her role in the series is expected to leave a lasting impression on viewers worldwide.