Angela Bassett Calls Out Oscar Disappointment with Grace
Angela Bassett is taking a moment to unpack her feelings about her 2023 Oscars loss, and let’s just say, it’s a lot more complex than a simple “better luck next time.” After being nominated for her standout role in *Black Panther: Wakanda Forever*, the actress faced a huge disappointment when she lost to Jamie Lee Curtis, who won for her performance in *Everything Everywhere All At Once*. Frankly, who could blame Bassett for feeling a twinge of sadness? In an interview with *Town & Country*, she revealed that there’s an expectation that celebrities should remain upbeat and gracious, even when their hard work doesn’t get recognized—a sentiment that resonates across Hollywood. “I found it interesting,” she said, expressing how society tends to vault over the nuance of disappointment. It’s a familiar struggle, especially for women and people of color in the industry, where emotional authenticity can sometimes feel like a liability.
Bassett’s facial expression that night went viral, morphing into a meme that reflected the collective sentiment of fans who felt she deserved the win. Fast forward to 2024, and she’s had some time to reflect on that night with Oprah Winfrey, who gets the best out of her guests. “It was—of course—a supreme disappointment,” she stated. But what makes Bassett stand out is her ability to highlight resilience. She champions an encouraging message to other Black actresses, reminding them that their contributions matter immensely, even in the face of adversity. This ethos was evident during her acceptance speech for an honorary Academy Award at the 2024 ceremony, where she celebrated her fellow Black artists while acknowledging the historical obstacles they face.
Angela’s narrative is a vital reminder that showing vulnerability doesn’t diminish one’s strength. Instead, it showcases an opportunity for growth and connection within the industry. In her own words, she emphasizes the importance of tackling disappointment with grace, saying, “Never allow fear, frustration or disappointment to get in the way of the blessings that are divinely and deservedly yours.” As awards shows become increasingly scrutinized for their lack of inclusivity, Bassett’s message echoes louder than ever—it’s time to embrace authenticity and uplift each other, making the path for future artists a little less rocky.
Sources: Celebrity Storm Wire and Town & Country, Vogue, NPR
