Angela Bassett, the acclaimed actress known for her roles in both television and film, has shared the most cited line from her rich 40-year career. During an interview at the 2026 Disney Upfront event in New York City, she expressed delight at how fans often quote a specific phrase from her filmography that resonates with them.
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Bassett, who has captivated audiences with her performances in various iconic roles, was attending the event to discuss the upcoming season of the popular anthology series, *American Horror Story* (AHS). As she spoke with PEOPLE, the 67-year-old star revealed that the phrase most often repeated to her by fans is “Go to bed, Joseph! Go to bed!” This line comes from her portrayal of Katherine Jackson in the 1992 miniseries, *The Jacksons: An American Dream*, where she depicted the mother of music legends Michael and Janet Jackson.
The Emmy-winning actress elaborated on the impact that this line has had, suggesting that it has a special place in the hearts of viewers. “Yeah, so you hear different little lines, but I always enjoy that. I always enjoy that,” she said, reflecting positively on the fan interaction and the connections that stem from her work.
In the five-hour miniseries, Bassett delivered a compelling performance opposite Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs, who played her on-screen husband, Joe Jackson. The series explored the formative years of the Jackson family, offering a glimpse into the dynamics that shaped their legacy in the music industry.
At the Disney Upfront presentation, Bassett also addressed her return to *American Horror Story* for its thirteenth season in which she will be reprising her role as Marie Laveau, the formidable voodoo queen. The series has gathered a strong fan following over the years, and this latest season promises to attract even more viewers when it premieres in September on FX and Hulu.
Bassett was joined on stage by her fellow cast members, including Sarah Paulson, Billie Lourd, Gabourey Sidibe, Emma Roberts, and Evan Peters, all of whom have played significant roles in the anthology series. The buzz for the new season was palpable during the presentation, and fans are eager for more of the thrilling narratives that AHS is known for.
As a veteran in Hollywood, Bassett has created a legacy filled with memorable characters and powerful performances, spanning genres and formats. From her portrayal of Tina Turner to her role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Queen Ramonda, she has consistently delivered excellence on screen.
With her upcoming work in AHS, it is clear that Angela Bassett’s influence in the entertainment industry continues to thrive. Fans are looking forward to seeing her return to the forefront, especially fondly recalling her iconic lines, such as the one that has become a fan favourite over the years.
Angela Bassett’s career serves as an inspiring testament to the power of storytelling in film and television, and it remains certain that her contributions will be celebrated for years to come. As the new season approaches, audiences will undoubtedly anticipate the nuances she brings to Marie Laveau and the interactions that may once again lead to memorable quotes for years into the future.