Angela Bassett Then and Now

Angela Bassett Then

Angela Bassett, born on August 16, 1958, in the Harlem neighborhood of New York City, has made a significant impact in the realms of film, television, and theater with her powerful and dramatic performances.

Raised alongside her sister, D’nette, in St. Petersburg, Florida, by her single mother, Betty, a social worker, Bassett’s upbringing instilled in her a strong work ethic and a drive for success.

Bassett’s journey into acting began during a high school trip, where she found inspiration after witnessing a Kennedy Center production of the classic story “Of Mice and Men,” featuring James Earl Jones. 

This transformative experience ignited her passion for acting and set her on a path toward pursuing a career in the performing arts.

Encouraged by a teacher who recognized her talent, Bassett pursued higher education at Yale University on a scholarship. 

There, she immersed herself in the study of Afro-American Studies, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree, while also honing her craft in drama. 

Under the mentorship of the esteemed stage director Lloyd Richards, Bassett flourished, showcasing her talents in various productions. 

Notably, she landed roles in Broadway productions of two August Wilson plays: “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” and “Joe Turner’s Come and Gone,” earning acclaim for her performances and solidifying her reputation as a formidable stage actress.

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Bassett’s academic and artistic achievements at Yale laid the foundation for her burgeoning career in the entertainment industry. 

Armed with a wealth of knowledge and experience, she embarked on a journey that would see her rise to prominence as one of the most respected and versatile actors of her generation. 

From her early beginnings on the stage to her later success in film and television, Angela Bassett’s remarkable talent and unwavering dedication continue to inspire audiences worldwide.

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Angela Bassett Acting Career

Angela Bassett’s illustrious career began to blossom on the stage in the mid-1980s when she delivered notable performances in August Wilson’s plays such as “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” and “Joe Turner’s Come and Gone.” 

These early stage roles showcased Bassett’s raw talent and versatility as an actress, laying the groundwork for her future success in the entertainment industry.

Simultaneously, Bassett made her presence felt on television with small but impactful roles in series like “Spenser: For Hire,” “The Cosby Show,” and “A Man Called Hawk.”

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Her television appearances provided her with valuable exposure and opportunities to hone her craft in front of a broader audience.

In 1986, Bassett made her big-screen debut in the action thriller “F/X,” portraying a reporter. 

This marked the beginning of her journey into film, where she would go on to deliver memorable performances across various genres. 

One of her early breakthrough roles came in the action comedy “Kindergarten Cop” (1990), where she portrayed a flight attendant, showcasing her ability to bring depth and charisma to her characters.

Throughout the 1990s, Bassett’s career continued to soar with standout performances in films like “Boyz n the Hood” (1991), “Malcolm X” (1992), and “What’s Love Got to Do with It” (1993), where she portrayed iconic figures such as Tina Turner. 

Bassett’s portrayal of Tina Turner earned her critical acclaim, including an Academy Award nomination and a Golden Globe win, cementing her status as one of Hollywood’s leading actresses.

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Bassett’s versatility was further highlighted in films like “Waiting to Exhale” (1995) and “How Stella Got Her Groove Back” (1998), both adapted from Terry McMillan’s books, where she captivated audiences with her emotional depth and authenticity.

Entering the 21st century, Bassett continued to impress with roles in films like “The Score” (2001), “Akeelah and the Bee” (2006), and “Notorious” (2009). 

She also made waves on television with roles in series like “Alias” and “American Horror Story,” showcasing her ability to excel in both mediums.

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Bassett’s later career saw her tackle diverse roles in films such as “Olympus Has Fallen” (2013), “Black Panther” (2018), and “Mission: Impossible—Fallout” (2018). 

Her contributions to television were equally significant, with roles in popular series like “9-1-1” and its spin-off “9-1-1: Lone Star,” where she also served as an executive producer.

Throughout her career, Bassett’s talent and dedication have earned her numerous accolades and accolades, making her a revered figure in the entertainment industry. 

Her ability to embody complex characters with depth and authenticity has solidified her legacy as one of Hollywood’s most respected and influential actresses.

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Angela Bassett Movies

• F/X (1986)
• Kindergarten Cop (1990)
• Boyz n the Hood (1991)
• Malcolm X (1992)
• The Jacksons: An American Dream (TV Mini-Series, 1992)
• What’s Love Got to Do with It (1993)
• Vampire in Brooklyn (1995)
• Strange Days (1995)
• Waiting to Exhale (1995)
• Contact (1997)
• How Stella Got Her Groove Back (1998)
• Music of the Heart (1999)
• Supernova (2000)
• The Score (2001)
• The Rosa Parks Story (TV Movie, 2002)
• Masked and Anonymous (2003)
• Mr. 3000 (2004)
• Akeelah and the Bee (2006)
• Meet the Robinsons (Voice, 2007)
• Gospel Hill (2008)
• Notorious (2009)
• Jumping the Broom (2011)
• This Means War (2012)
• Olympus Has Fallen (2013)
• Black Nativity (2013)
• White Bird in a Blizzard (2014)
• Chi-Raq (2015)
• London Has Fallen (2016)
• Survivor (2015)
• Close to the Enemy (TV Mini-Series, 2016)
• Master of None (TV Series, 2017)
• Black Panther (2018)
• Mission: Impossible – Fallout (2018)
• Otherhood (2019)
• Avengers: Endgame (2019)
• Gunpowder Milkshake (2021)
• Tom Clancy’s Without Remorse (2021)
• Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022)
• Good Night Oppy (2022)
• Wendell and Wild (2022)
• Heist 88 (2023)
• Mission Impossible 7 (2023)
• Damsel (2024)
• Orion and the Dark (2024)

Angela Bassett’s Personal Life

Angela Bassett’s personal life is characterized by her enduring relationship with actor Courtney B. Vance. 

The couple exchanged vows on October 12, 1997, in a union that has stood the test of time. 

Their marriage is often cited as an example of love and partnership in the entertainment industry, with both Bassett and Vance supporting each other’s careers and personal endeavors.

In 2006, Angela Bassett and Courtney B. Vance became parents to twins, a son named Slater and a daughter named Bronwyn. 

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The couple’s journey to parenthood took a unique path, as their twins were delivered by a surrogate. 

This decision reflects the couple’s determination to expand their family and their openness to alternative means of achieving their parenting dreams.

Despite the demands of their busy careers, Bassett and Vance have prioritized their roles as parents, ensuring that their twins receive love, support, and guidance as they navigate childhood and adolescence. 

Their family life is characterized by warmth, love, and a deep sense of connection, with Bassett and Vance sharing the joys and challenges of parenting as a team.

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Angela Bassett and Courtney B. Vance’s enduring marriage and their commitment to family serve as a source of inspiration for many, highlighting the importance of love, respect, and mutual support in a successful relationship. 

Their journey together is a testament to the power of partnership and the strength that comes from facing life’s challenges hand in hand.

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Angela Bassett Now

At 65 years old, Angela Bassett stands as a formidable presence in the world of American entertainment. 

With a career spanning several decades, she has left an indelible mark on both film and television. 

Renowned for her captivating performances, Bassett has garnered widespread acclaim and recognition, earning numerous accolades throughout her illustrious career.

Bassett’s recent projects, including the films “Orion and the Dark,” released on February 2, 2024, and “Damsel,” released on March 8, 2024, underscore her enduring relevance and versatility as an actress. 

These latest endeavors showcase her ability to tackle diverse roles and captivate audiences with her talent and charisma. 

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As she continues to take on new projects, Bassett reaffirms her status as a powerhouse in the entertainment industry, captivating audiences with her commanding presence and undeniable talent.

Throughout her career, Angela Bassett has amassed an impressive array of accolades, including two Golden Globe Awards, in addition to nominations for two Academy Awards and eight Primetime Emmy Awards. 

These honors serve as a testament to her exceptional talent and contributions to the world of entertainment. 

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Bassett’s ability to inhabit complex characters with depth and authenticity has solidified her reputation as one of Hollywood’s most respected and acclaimed actresses.

Beyond her artistic achievements, Angela Bassett’s net worth of $25 million reflects her success and longevity in the entertainment industry. 

Her financial success is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and ability to excel in a competitive field. 

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Bassett’s influence extends far beyond the screen, as she continues to inspire audiences with her talent, grace, and unwavering commitment to her craft.

As Angela Bassett continues to grace screens both big and small, her legacy as a trailblazer in American entertainment only grows stronger. 

With each new project, she reaffirms her status as a cultural icon and a true powerhouse in the world of film and television.

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