Angela Bassett's Reflection on the Battle of Her Oscar-Winning Career

Angela Bassett, a Hollywood icon, reveals that her successful career, now adorned with a new Oscar, is built on resilience rather than glamour. 

In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE for the 2024 Women Changing the World issue, the 9-1-1 star emphasizes her commitment to hard work over fame. Juggling over 100 roles and two Oscar nominations, Bassett, also an executive producer and a mother of twins, shares the challenges of long days, tough choices, and a refusal to accept limiting roles. 

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Despite occasional guilt about being away from her college-bound children, she hopes they see her as a Black woman achieving dreams through dedication. At 65, she humorously navigates family dinners and reflects on her upbringing's hardships, which fueled her determination. 

Bassett's recent honorary Oscar, a symbol of overdue recognition for women of colour, is a proud moment in her accomplished career. Acknowledging her shyness about accomplishments, she emphasizes finding and praising the good in life, especially during a time of significant personal and professional milestones. 

Grateful for the confluence of events, including her twins turning 18, a thriving career, and the Oscar at home, Bassett advises breathing through overwhelming moments and cherishing what was prayed for, worked for, and dreamed of.

-Farheen Ali