50 Facts About Angela Bassett

Early Life and Education

Angela Bassett's journey to stardom began with a strong foundation in education and a passion for acting that emerged early in her life.

1. Angela Evelyn Bassett was born on August 16, 1958, in New York City.
2. Raised by her mother, a social worker, in St. Petersburg, Florida, after her parents separated.
3. Discovered her love for acting in high school, which led her to pursue higher education in the arts.
4. Earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in African American studies from Yale University.
5. Further honed her craft by obtaining a Master of Fine Arts degree from the Yale School of Drama.

Breakthrough Role and Career Milestones

Angela Bassett's career took off with a role that showcased her immense talent and dedication to her craft.

6. Her breakthrough role came in 1993 when she portrayed Tina Turner in "What's Love Got to Do with It."
7. This performance earned her critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.
8. Angela Bassett received an Academy Honorary Award in 2024, recognizing her glittering career.
9. She was also honored at the 14th Annual Governors Awards in January 2024.
10. Bassett's first screen appearance was in 1985 on the soap opera "General Hospital."

Stage Performances and Directorial Ventures

Beyond the screen, Angela Bassett has made significant contributions to theater and directing.

11. Early in her career, she performed in various Broadway productions.
12. Notable stage performance in J. E. Franklin’s “Black Girl” at Second Stage Theatre in 1985.
13. Made her directorial debut with the television film “Whitney,” a biopic of Whitney Houston.
14. Co-founded Bassett Vance Productions with her husband, Courtney B. Vance, focusing on telling meaningful stories.
15. A theater scholarship named in her honor supports aspiring actors in the performing arts.

Iconic Roles and Awards

Angela Bassett's versatility as an actress is evident in her portrayal of various iconic roles and the numerous awards she has received.

16. Played Rosa Parks in “The Rosa Parks Story,” earning an Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Lead Actress.
17. Portrayed Coretta Scott King in “Betty & Coretta,” showcasing her ability to bring historical figures to life.
18. Starred as Queen Ramonda in the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s “Black Panther,” earning a Golden Globe Award and an Academy Award nomination.
19. Won two Golden Globe Awards: one for Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Comedy or Musical for her role as Tina Turner and another for Best Supporting Actress for “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.”
20. Received a Primetime Emmy Award for her role as Katherine Jackson in the miniseries “The Jacksons: An American Dream.”

Personal Life and Advocacy

Angela Bassett's personal life and advocacy work reflect her commitment to health, family, and community empowerment.

21. Married fellow actor Courtney B. Vance in 1997.
22. The couple has two children, Slater and Bronwyn, born via a surrogate in January 2006.
23. Advocates for heart health, inspired by her mother’s battle with heart disease.
24. Uses her platform to support various causes, including health, education, and community empowerment.
25. Passionate about fitness, maintaining an active lifestyle to inspire others.

Influence and Recognition

Angela Bassett's influence extends beyond her acting career, impacting popular culture and inspiring future generations.

26. Named one of the 100 most influential people in the world by Time magazine in 2023.
27. Received an honorary degree from Harvard University in 2018 for her contributions to the arts.
28. Appeared in music videos, including Michael Jackson’s “Black or White.”
29. Her line “Right here Right now!” from “Strange Days” was sampled in Fatboy Slim’s song “Right Here, Right Now.”
30. Received a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in March 2008.

Versatility and Cultural Impact

Angela Bassett's ability to adapt to various roles and her cultural impact make her a standout figure in Hollywood.

31. Played different roles in the FX horror anthology series “American Horror Story,” earning Emmy Award nominations.
32. Portrayed Katherine Jackson in the miniseries “The Jacksons: An American Dream,” earning Emmy Award nominations.
33. Her performances have influenced popular culture significantly, especially her portrayal of Tina Turner.
34. Her role as Queen Ramonda in “Black Panther” showcased her ability to adapt to fictional characters.
35. Her portrayal of real-life activists like Rosa Parks and Coretta Scott King has inspired audiences worldwide.

Legacy and Enduring Impact

Angela Bassett's legacy in the entertainment industry is profound, with a lasting impact on film history and future generations.

36. Co-founded Bassett Vance Productions to focus on telling stories that matter.
37. Her performances have influenced generations of actors and artists.
38. Continues to captivate audiences with her talent, charisma, and dedication to her craft.
39. Lives in Los Angeles with her husband and children, balancing personal and professional responsibilities.
40. Her journey inspires many young black women to pursue their dreams in the entertainment industry.

Personal Philosophy and Advocacy Work

Angela Bassett's personal philosophy and advocacy work highlight her commitment to family, health, and community empowerment.

41. Often speaks about the importance of family and grounding her success in the love and support at home.
42. Advocates for heart health, inspired by her mother’s battle with heart disease.
43. Uses her platform to support various causes, including health, education, and community empowerment.
44. Passionate about fitness, maintaining an active lifestyle to inspire others.
45. Her advocacy work extends beyond the screen, making a lasting impact on society.

Recognition and Honors

Angela Bassett's numerous awards and honors reflect her significant contributions to the entertainment industry.

46. Received an Academy Honorary Award in 2024 for her contributions to the film industry.
47. Won the 2002 Lena Horne Award for Outstanding Career Achievements in the Field of Entertainment.
48. Named one of the 100 most influential people in the world by Time magazine in 2023.
49. Received a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in March 2008.
50. Honored at the 14th Annual Governors Awards in January 2024.

Angela Bassett's Lasting Legacy

Angela Bassett's career is a testament to her talent, dedication, and versatility. From her breakthrough role as Tina Turner to her powerful performances in "Black Panther" and "American Horror Story," she has consistently wowed audiences. Her advocacy work for heart health and her commitment to mentoring young actors show she's more than just a performer; she's a role model. Bassett's directorial debut with "Whitney" and her production company with husband Courtney B. Vance highlight her impact behind the scenes. Recognized by Time magazine as one of the 100 most influential people and honored with an Academy Honorary Award, her influence is undeniable. Angela Bassett continues to inspire, proving that with passion and hard work, anything is possible. Her legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of actors and artists for years to come.