Angela Bassett speaks out on Oscars loss to Jamie Lee Curtis: ‘I Was Deserving’
Angela Bassett opens up about her Oscars loss, sharing her thoughts on the moment, the criticism she faced, and why she believed she deserved the award.
As awards season is currently in full swing, Hollywood is once again buzzing with predictions, nominations, and the anticipation of unforgettable moments. With the Oscars on the horizon, conversations about past ceremonies naturally resurface—especially those that sparked debate among fans and critics alike. This includes 2023's highly debated Best Supporting Actress race, where Jamie Lee Curtis won over frontrunner Angela Bassett, sparking widespread discussion.
Now, Bassett is opening up about her reaction to losing the Oscar, addressing the disappointment that many viewers noticed during the live broadcast. "The Black Panther: Wakanda Forever" star, who had been a frontrunner throughout the season, admits that the moment was tough. Reflecting on the experience, she shares why the loss stung and how she navigated the intense emotions of the night.
Angela Bassett dissapointed: ‘I Was Deserving’
In an interview with Town & Country published Thursday, she reflected on the viral moment when she appeared visibly disappointed after losing the Best Supporting Actress award to Jamie Lee Curtis.
“I found it interesting,” Bassett told the outlet. “Interesting that I wouldn’t be allowed to be disappointed at an outcome where I thought I was deserving.”
Angela Bassett losing to Jamie Lee Curtis sparked a debate among viewers on social media. Photo: Rolling Stone
Bassett, further explained her emotions that night, emphasizing her dedication to her craft. “I love applauding people. But in that moment… I have put in the time, put in good work over time. I didn’t think that was a gift. I thought it was a given,” she shared.
A viral moment
The acclaimed actress was nominated for her role in "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever", but Curtis took home the award for her performance in "Everything Everywhere All at Once"—her first-ever Oscar win.
As the camera panned to the nominees—including Kerry Condon, Hong Chau, and Stephanie Hsu—Bassett’s expression stood out, sparking debate. You can watch the moment here:
Honored for her legacy in Hollywood
Despite the Oscars loss, Bassett received an Honorary Academy Award in January 2024 for her contributions to the film industry. In her acceptance speech, she paid tribute to legendary Black actresses who paved the way, including Ruby Dee, Diahann Carroll, Cicely Tyson, and Rosalind Cash.
“It was standing on their strong, spiritually fortified shoulders that I often was sustained,” she said, acknowledging their sacrifices, triumphs, and perseverance.