The actress received an honorary Oscar from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences for her contributions to the film industry at the 14th Governors Awards in Los Angeles.
After nearly 40 years as an actress and two Oscar nominations, Angela Bassett has received an honorary Academy Award.
The 65-year-old received her first Oscar nomination for her portrayal of Tina Turner in “What’s Love Got to Do With It” and her second nomination last year for playing the grieving queen in “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.”
Bassett gave an emotional speech, talking about how acting has always been more than just a career for her. She said the honorary Oscar is not just another award but “a testament to my legacy” and calling.
“Thank you. Thank you to the Academy and the Board of Governors for this award. I have considered acting my calling and not just my career. I do this work because I find it meaningful, and I hope in some way that it makes a difference and has an impact. To be recognized in this way for what I love doing is truly wonderful, and I am beyond grateful.
“The stakes are extremely high because history depends on us. My prayer is that we leave this industry more enriched,” Bassett said.
Bassett used several moments of her speech to acknowledge other Black actresses, including Regina King, Viola Davis, Octavia Spencer, and Lupita Nyong’o.
“I call their names to acknowledge every one of them this evening for being beacons of possibility and hope for little Black and brown girls who aspire to one day pursue the dream of becoming an actor,” Bassett said.
After the event, “The Color Purple” director Blitz Bazawule said Angela Bassett’s acceptance speech, which lasted 15 minutes, was “like church.”
Angela Bassett is the only second Black actress to receive the honorary Oscar, after the late Cicely Tyson, who she considered a mentor.
