Angela Bassett’s Best Roles
Angela Bassett has built a remarkable career by portraying strong, complex, and unforgettable women on screen. For decades, she has captivated audiences with her powerful presence and incredible range, effortlessly moving between biographical films, action blockbusters, and dramatic television series. Her ability to bring depth and humanity to every character has made her one of the most respected actresses of her generation and a true icon in the world of entertainment.
From playing real-life legends to fictional heroes, Bassett’s filmography is filled with standout performances that have earned her critical acclaim and numerous awards. She has a unique talent for conveying resilience and vulnerability, often in the same breath. Whether she is the lead or part of an ensemble, she consistently delivers a memorable performance that elevates the entire project and leaves a lasting impact on viewers.
‘Music of the Heart’ (1999)
In this inspiring drama, Angela Bassett plays Janet Williams, the dedicated principal of a school in East Harlem. Her character is instrumental in hiring and supporting a new violin teacher, played by Meryl Streep, who wants to build a music program for the underprivileged students. Principal Williams is a firm but fair leader who believes in the potential of her students and fights to give them every opportunity to succeed.
Throughout the film, Bassett’s character provides a steady presence and crucial support as the music program faces numerous challenges, including budget cuts from the board of education. She stands by the teacher and helps rally the community to save the program. Her role highlights the importance of passionate educators and administrators who advocate for the arts in schools and champion the future of their students.
‘Strange Days’ (1995)
Angela Bassett delivers a powerful performance as Lornette ‘Mace’ Mason in this science fiction thriller. Mace is a professional bodyguard and limousine driver who is fiercely loyal and highly skilled in combat. She serves as the moral compass of the story and is a protective friend to the film’s protagonist, a former cop who deals in illegal recordings of memories and sensations.
Mace is a tough and resourceful hero who becomes deeply involved in uncovering a dangerous conspiracy. Bassett’s portrayal is both physically demanding and emotionally nuanced, showing Mace’s strength and determination as she navigates the chaotic final days of the millennium in Los Angeles. Her character is widely regarded as one of the most capable action heroines of the decade.
‘Akeelah and the Bee’ (2006)
In this heartwarming family film, Angela Bassett portrays Tanya Anderson, the hardworking and widowed mother of a gifted young girl named Akeelah. Initially, Tanya is hesitant about her daughter’s passion for spelling bees, worrying that it will distract her from her schoolwork and set her up for disappointment. She pushes Akeelah to focus on her regular studies instead of what she sees as an unrealistic dream.
As Akeelah advances through various spelling competitions, Tanya witnesses her daughter’s incredible talent and determination. Her perspective slowly shifts, and she becomes one of Akeelah’s biggest supporters, learning to balance her protective instincts with the need to let her daughter pursue her own goals. Bassett beautifully captures the journey of a mother learning to believe in her child’s extraordinary potential.
‘Black Panther’ (2018)
Angela Bassett brings a regal and commanding presence to the role of Ramonda, the Queen Mother of the technologically advanced African nation of Wakanda. As the mother of King T’Challa, she is a figure of wisdom, grace, and strength. Ramonda serves as a trusted advisor to her son, offering guidance as he navigates the immense responsibilities of being a ruler and a superhero.
Ramonda’s character is central to the family dynamic that grounds the epic story. She provides a source of emotional support for her children and demonstrates unwavering loyalty to her nation and its traditions. Bassett’s portrayal establishes Ramonda as a powerful matriarch who is deeply respected by her people and essential to the stability and spirit of Wakanda.
‘What’s Love Got to Do with It’ (1993)
Angela Bassett’s portrayal of music icon Tina Turner is one of her most celebrated roles and earned her an Academy Award nomination. She completely transforms into the legendary singer, capturing her distinctive voice, electrifying stage presence, and incredible resilience. The biographical film follows Turner’s life from her humble beginnings to her rise to stardom and her struggle to escape an abusive relationship with her husband, Ike Turner.
Bassett’s performance is both powerful and vulnerable, showing the immense strength it took for Turner to break free and reclaim her identity and career. She trained extensively to replicate Turner’s iconic dance moves and energetic performances, bringing an authenticity to the role that captivated both critics and audiences. Her work in the film solidified her status as a leading actress in Hollywood.
‘Contact’ (1997)
In this thought-provoking science fiction film, Angela Bassett plays Rachel Constantine, the sharp and pragmatic White House Chief of Staff. When scientists discover a message from an extraterrestrial intelligence, her character is at the center of the political and social fallout. She advises the President and navigates the complex global response to this unprecedented event.
Bassett’s character represents the voice of reason and political strategy in a situation filled with fear, excitement, and uncertainty. She must balance national security concerns with the scientific and spiritual implications of making first contact with alien life. Her calm and authoritative performance provides a crucial perspective on the human reaction to discovering we are not alone in the universe.
‘Mission: Impossible – Fallout’ (2018)
Angela Bassett joins the high-stakes world of espionage as Erika Sloane, the formidable and uncompromising Director of the Central Intelligence Agency. Her character is intelligent, authoritative, and deeply skeptical of Ethan Hunt and his unconventional methods. As the new head of the agency, she asserts her control and challenges the established team dynamics.
Sloane’s presence adds a new layer of tension and conflict to the story, as her objectives sometimes clash with those of the IMF. Bassett brings a commanding presence to the role, making Director Sloane a powerful figure who is not easily intimidated. Her character is a skilled political operator who keeps both the heroes and the audience guessing about her true allegiances.
‘Boyz n the Hood’ (1991)
In this groundbreaking film, Angela Bassett plays Reva Styles, the mother of the main character, Tre. In a small but pivotal role, Reva makes the difficult decision to send her young son to live with his father in a tough South Central Los Angeles neighborhood. She believes that his father can better teach him how to become a responsible man in a dangerous environment.
Reva is a professional and educated woman who wants the best for her son, even if it means letting him go. The choice she makes sets the entire story in motion, exploring themes of parenting, responsibility, and the challenges of raising children in a community affected by violence. Bassett’s performance adds emotional depth to a character whose decision has a lasting impact.
‘Malcolm X’ (1992)
Angela Bassett portrays Betty Shabazz, the wife of the influential civil rights leader Malcolm X. The film follows their lives together, from their courtship to their marriage and the immense challenges they faced as central figures in the Nation of Islam and the broader civil rights movement. Bassett’s performance captures Shabazz’s quiet strength, intelligence, and unwavering support for her husband.
She portrays Betty Shabazz not just as a supportive wife but as a strong and resilient woman who was a leader in her own right. Bassett skillfully shows her evolution as she navigates the dangers of her husband’s activism and the personal sacrifices required of their family. Her performance provides a vital look at the woman who stood beside one of history’s most complex and controversial figures.
‘The Rosa Parks Story’ (2002)
Angela Bassett takes on the lead role in this biographical television film, portraying the iconic civil rights activist Rosa Parks. The movie tells the story of her life, from her upbringing in Alabama to the pivotal moment when she refused to give up her bus seat to a white passenger in 1955. This act of defiance sparked the Montgomery bus boycott, a major turning point in the civil rights movement.
Bassett’s performance earned her an Emmy nomination for its dignified and powerful depiction of Parks. She captures the quiet determination and immense courage of a woman who became known as the mother of the civil rights movement. The film explores not only her famous act of protest but also her lifelong commitment to fighting for racial equality and justice.
‘9-1-1’ (2018–)
In the popular procedural drama series, Angela Bassett stars as Athena Grant, a dedicated and no-nonsense police sergeant with the Los Angeles Police Department. Her character is a veteran officer who handles high-pressure situations with skill and authority. The series follows her professional life as a first responder as well as her complex personal life as a mother and wife.
Athena Grant is a central figure in the show, known for her sharp instincts and her unwavering commitment to protecting her community. Bassett’s portrayal has been widely praised for bringing depth and strength to the character. She effectively balances the tough exterior of a seasoned cop with the vulnerability and compassion she shows to her family and the victims she helps.
‘American Horror Story’ (2011–)
Angela Bassett has played several memorable characters in this popular anthology horror series, showcasing her incredible versatility as an actress. She joined the show in its third season, ‘Coven’, where she portrayed the powerful and immortal Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau. Her commanding performance as the historical figure was a fan favorite and earned her critical acclaim.
In subsequent seasons, she took on other distinct roles, including Desiree Dupree, a three-breasted woman in a ‘Freak Show’, and Ramona Royale, a vengeful former movie star and vampire in ‘Hotel’. Each character allowed her to explore different facets of her acting talent, from commanding authority to raw vulnerability. Her work on the series has made her a beloved fixture of the ‘American Horror Story’ universe.
‘Soul’ (2020)
Angela Bassett lends her voice to the character of Dorothea Williams in this animated film. Dorothea is a highly respected and talented jazz saxophonist who leads her own quartet. She is a legend in the New York jazz scene and represents the pinnacle of musical success that the film’s main character, Joe Gardner, dreams of achieving.
Dorothea is a confident and focused artist who demands excellence from the musicians who play with her. Though her screen time is limited, Bassett’s voice performance gives the character a powerful and intimidating presence. She perfectly embodies the cool, professional demeanor of a seasoned musician who has dedicated her life to her craft.
‘Master of None’ (2015–2021)
In a guest-starring role that earned her an Emmy nomination, Angela Bassett played Catherine, the mother of the character Denise. The critically acclaimed episode, titled ‘Thanksgiving’, follows Denise’s coming-out journey over several decades, showing her relationship with her mother and family during a series of holiday dinners. Bassett’s character struggles to understand and accept her daughter’s identity.
Bassett’s performance is subtle and deeply moving, capturing the complex emotions of a mother grappling with her own beliefs and her unconditional love for her child. She beautifully portrays Catherine’s gradual evolution from confusion and resistance to eventual acceptance and support. The episode was praised for its heartfelt storytelling and realistic depiction of a family’s journey.
‘Bojack Horseman’ (2014–2020)
In the animated series, Angela Bassett provides the voice for Ana Spanakopita, a sharp, no-nonsense publicist who is hired to run a major awards campaign for the titular character. Ana is known in the industry as a brilliant “Oscar whisperer” who is an expert at managing difficult clients and navigating the politics of Hollywood. She is one of the few characters who can command BoJack’s respect.
Ana is a highly professional and unflappable character who maintains a cool and calculated demeanor even in the most chaotic situations. Bassett’s smooth and confident voice work perfectly captures Ana’s authority and intelligence. Her character plays a significant role in a key season of the show, pushing the protagonist to confront his career ambitions and personal failings.
What is your favorite Angela Bassett role from her incredible career?
