Angela Bassett Expresses Disappointment Over Oscar Loss to Jamie Lee Curtis

Angela Bassett opened up about her feelings following the 2023 Academy Awards loss, PEOPLE reported. She was nominated for Best Supporting Actress for her role in "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever." In her cover story for the March 2025 issue of "Town & Country," Bassett expressed her surprise at not being allowed to feel disappointed. She believed her performance warranted recognition.

"I found it interesting that I wouldn’t be allowed to be disappointed at an outcome where I thought I was deserving," Bassett shared. Although she is happy for Jamie Lee Curtis, who won for "Everything Everywhere All at Once," the loss still resonated with her. "I have put in: put in the time, put in good work over time. I didn’t think that was a gift. I thought it was a given."

Although Bassett did not win the trophy in 2023, it was her second Oscar nomination. She previously received a Best Actress nod nearly three decades prior for her iconic portrayal of Tina Turner in "What's Love Got to Do with It." In 2024, she received an Honorary Oscar for her significant contributions to filmmaking.

During her acceptance speech, Bassett recognized trailblazing Black actresses who paved the way for her. She honored Ruby Dee, Diahann Carroll, Cicely Tyson, and Rosalind Cash. "They were my North Star, my guiding light," she explained. Their resilience and sacrifices inspired her career. "Had it not been for their willingness to fight for every role, I would not have had a representation of what was possible."

In her speech, Bassett emphasized that her accolade was not just personal. She expressed hope that this moment signifies progress. "What I hope this moment means is that we are taking the necessary steps toward a future," she stated. Her goal is to normalize seeing and respecting diverse stories and perspectives.

Reflecting on her career, Bassett remembered her challenging early days. She recalled trying to find opportunities for expression as an actress. "You’re just trying to find little pieces where you are," she remarked. She expressed gratitude for every chance to perform. "When I get the opportunity, whatever opportunity it is, to perform ... it’s really daylight."

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