Angela Bassett shares her thoughts on losing out to Jamie Lee Curtis at the Oscars
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Renowned actress Angela Bassett recently opened up about her experience of losing the Best Supporting Actress Academy Award to Jamie Lee Curtis in 2023. Speaking in an interview for Town & Country’s March issue, the accomplished actress expressed her feelings about the outcome, stating, “I found it interesting … that I wouldn’t be allowed to be disappointed at an outcome where I thought I was deserving.” Although Bassett, 66, conveyed her happiness for Jamie Lee Curtis, who secured her first Oscar for her role in “Everything Everywhere All at Once,” she admitted that the loss was a tough pill to swallow at the time. Reflecting on her career and dedication to her craft, Bassett shared, “I have put in the time, put in good work over time. I didn’t think that was a gift. I thought it was a given.”
Receiving an Honorary Oscar in 2024 for her outstanding contributions to the film industry was a significant moment for Bassett, even though she didn’t clinch the Best Supporting Actress trophy in 2023. In her acceptance speech, she paid homage to the trailblazing Black actresses who paved the way for her success, such as Ruby Dee, Diahann Carroll, Cicely Tyson, and Rosalind Cash. Recognizing their resilience and determination, Bassett acknowledged the impact they had on her journey, stating, “Because had it not been for their resilience, continuing to fight through their fears and the uncertainty and their willingness as they fought for every role, I would not have had a representation of what was possible for me.”
During her interview with Town & Country, Bassett reminisced about her early days in the entertainment industry, emphasizing the challenges and joys of pursuing her passion. She reflected on the importance of embracing every opportunity to perform and connect with audiences, describing these moments as “daylight,” a precious gift not to be taken for granted. Bassett’s portrayal of a Black woman president in the film “Zero Day” struck a chord with audiences, with the actress expressing her amazement at the timely relevance of the role.
Looking towards the future, Bassett shared her hopes for a more inclusive and diverse entertainment industry, where all voices and perspectives are celebrated. She underscored the significance of acknowledging and embracing each other’s humanity, stories, and experiences, paving the way for a more equitable and representative landscape. Bassett’s resilience, talent, and dedication to her craft serve as an inspiration to aspiring actors and industry professionals, embodying the spirit of perseverance and excellence.
As Angela Bassett continues to captivate audiences with her captivating performances and unwavering commitment to her craft, her journey stands as a testament to the power of talent, dedication, and authenticity in the entertainment world. With a career spanning decades and a multitude of critically acclaimed roles, Bassett remains a formidable presence in Hollywood, leaving an indelible mark on the industry. As fans eagerly await her upcoming projects and performances, Angela Bassett’s legacy as a trailblazing actress and advocate for diversity and representation continues to shine brightly in the spotlight.