Throughout her illustrious career, Angela Bassett has brought to life some of history’s most iconic figures. From civil rights legends like Rosa Parks and Coretta Scott King to the legendary rock star Tina Turner and the mysterious voodoo queen Marie Laveau, she’s mastered the art of portraying real-life figures with authenticity and grace. “I’ve had incredible success playing real people, and I guess that’s my niche,” shares Angela, 62, in an exclusive interview with Closer. Her Oscar-nominated performance in the 1993 film What’s Love Got to Do With It remains a testament to her talent. Yet, Angela admits there’s a unique challenge in portraying nonfictional characters. “When you play a real person, they’ve already laid the groundwork for who they are, which can be both a gift and a limitation. With fictional characters, though, the possibilities are endless.”
Angela’s versatility extends far beyond historical figures. She’s also taken on fictional roles with equal finesse, including the enigmatic CIA director in Mission: Impossible — Fallout and Queen Ramonda of Wakanda in the blockbuster Black Panther. Alongside her film work, Angela is set to return for the fourth season of the hit series 9-1-1, a show she also produces, premiering January 18, 2021.
Keep reading for Closer’s exclusive Q&A with Angela Bassett.
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Did Acting Always Feel Like Destiny?
Angela’s passion for the dramatic arts was sparked early in life. As a teenager, she found joy in poetry, dramatic readings, and even lip-syncing to her favorite songs. “My mom, Betty Jane, was incredibly supportive,” Angela recalls fondly. “Whether it was a small church play or a community theater production, she made sure I was there on time for every audition. Even if the role only had four lines, she encouraged me to give it my all.”
Mom: The Ultimate Support System
Angela’s mother played an instrumental role in shaping her career. “She was my biggest fan,” Angela says with a smile. “When I decided to attend Yale University, she was thrilled but also reminded me to chase my dreams. She never pushed me toward a ‘practical’ path. I realized later just how much that meant to me.”
