In a heartfelt chat with Closer Weekly, Angela Bassett opened up about the significance of her 12-year-old twins, Bronwyn Vance and Slater Vance, seeing the groundbreaking film Black Panther. In this Marvel masterpiece, Angela plays a pivotal role as Ramonda, the resilient queen and mother of the superhero T'Challa. She explained to Closer why this movie resonates so deeply with her children and countless others. "They can see themselves as warriors, as heroes, as kings, and as queens," she passionately shared. "It’s such a powerful and uplifting representation."
Throughout her illustrious career, Angela Bassett has been a beacon of strength and authenticity on screen. From her iconic portrayal of Tina Turner in the 1993 biopic What’s Love Got to Do With It to her portrayal of Coretta Scott King in the 2013 series Betty and Coretta, Angela has consistently brought positive and empowering characters to life. Her commitment to uplifting stories that inspire others is nothing short of remarkable.

Angela at the Black Panther premiere, shining brightly in her element.
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Angela's Journey: From Doubt to Triumph
When Angela Bassett first dreamed of becoming an actress at the age of 15, she faced skepticism, especially from her mother, Betty. "My mother said, 'Not in your lifetime! What black actresses do we have?'” Angela recalls, her voice tinged with nostalgia. Despite the initial doubts, Angela’s unwavering passion and dedication eventually won over her mother's heart. Betty, a social worker, became Angela's biggest supporter, though she passed away in 2014 from heart disease. "My mom was a real advocate for me," Angela fondly remembers. "I’m living my dream, and I’ve come to understand that I possess a strength that people can feel and appreciate—a strength and sensitivity. I feel incredibly blessed," she beams.
Angela credits her education from Yale University’s drama school as a pivotal turning point in her career. It was there that her passion transformed into a disciplined pursuit of excellence. Her journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring actors everywhere, proving that with hard work and perseverance, dreams can become a reality.
Angela's Message to Aspiring Artists
For Angela, success isn't just about achieving fame—it's about staying true to oneself and maintaining resilience in the face of challenges. "If you’re passionate, you have a great shot at being successful," she tells Closer. "I’ve learned to always keep my head up, no matter what obstacles come my way." Her words are not just advice; they're a reflection of her own journey, filled with triumphs and lessons learned along the way.
For more insights into Angela Bassett's inspiring story, grab the latest issue of Closer Weekly, available now at newsstands. And don't forget to sign up for our newsletter for exclusive updates and news straight to your inbox!


