Angela Bassett’s Iconic Roles: Ranking Her Career From Tina Turner To 2026
Alright, let’s talk about a woman who simply owns every role she touches. We're diving deep into the magnificent world of Angela Bassett, a queen of the screen whose performances are so powerful, they leave you breathless, inspired, and maybe even a little bit inspired to hit the gym (or at least stand up a little straighter). From belting her heart out as a music legend to ruling a Wakandan throne, her career is a treasure trove of unforgettable moments. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and let’s take a playful stroll through some of her most iconic gigs, imagining what might be next!
It’s impossible to talk about Angela Bassett without first bowing down to her portrayal of Tina Turner in What’s Love Got to Do with It. Seriously. If you haven’t seen it, do yourself a favor and find it. Angela didn't just play Tina Turner; she became her. The way she moved, the way she sang (yes, that was her voice!), the sheer fire and vulnerability she exuded – it was a masterclass. You could feel Tina’s pain, her resilience, and her triumphant spirit coursing through Angela’s veins. It's the kind of performance that makes you want to rewind and watch it again immediately, just to soak it all in. Imagine the backstage stories from that set! Probably a lot of nervous energy, a whole lot of vocal warm-ups, and maybe a few moments where Angela had to remind herself she wasn't actually about to dodge a flying mic stand.
Then, we sashayed over to the wild, wonderful world of Waiting to Exhale. Bassett played Bernadine Harris, a woman dealing with, well, a whole lot of stuff. And Angela brought a quiet strength and a simmering rage to Bernadine that was just chef’s kiss. Remember that scene where she sets the cheating husband’s car on fire? Iconic! It was cathartic, it was wild, and it was delivered with a cool precision that only Angela can manage. You can just picture the set being abuzz with “Don’t try this at home, kids!” warnings and probably a lot of giggles after they’d nailed the shot.
Who could forget her fierce turn as Stella Payne in How Stella Got Her Groove Back? This one was all about rediscovery and unapologetic joy. Angela radiated confidence and charm as she navigated love, life, and a tropical romance. It was heartwarming, it was sexy, and it showed a different, lighter side of her incredible talent. You have to imagine the fun on that set – the sunshine, the vibrant costumes, and the sheer delight of seeing Stella embrace her groove. It’s the kind of movie that makes you want to book a vacation and find your own groove, stat.
And then, the MCU called. Suddenly, Angela Bassett was the regal and formidable Queen Ramonda in Black Panther. Her presence was commanding, her words were powerful, and her unwavering strength in the face of unimaginable loss was truly moving. She brought such gravitas and dignity to the role, making her a pillar of Wakandan strength. You can bet that behind the scenes, she was probably the calm, collected center of a whirlwind of superhero action and special effects. Imagine her delivering those epic lines with a casual grace, while the green screen wizards worked their magic around her.
Her reprisal of Queen Ramonda in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever was nothing short of phenomenal. She carried the weight of grief and leadership with such profound grace and power. That speech in the UN? Goosebumps! It was a performance that earned her an Oscar nomination, and frankly, it felt like a lifetime achievement award for a career already brimming with brilliance. You can imagine the immense pressure and emotion she brought to those scenes, and the quiet strength she must have exuded to keep the whole production grounded.
But it's not just the big, dramatic roles. Angela has a knack for elevating any project. Think about her voice work as Dolores in Pixar’s Soul. It’s a testament to her versatility that she can go from commanding royalty to a wise, guiding spirit with such ease. Imagine her in a sound booth, channeling that gentle wisdom, probably with a cup of tea and a serene smile. It’s these quieter, unexpected turns that often reveal the depth of her artistry.
Looking ahead, the possibilities are endless. Could we see her return to the stage for a powerful Shakespearean tragedy? Perhaps a quirky, independent film where she plays a delightfully eccentric character? Or maybe, just maybe, she’ll surprise us all with a comedy that showcases her impeccable timing and wit. Whatever it is, we know it will be imbued with that signature Angela Bassett magic.
And what about the future, say, 2026? One can only dream! Perhaps a historical drama where she embodies another groundbreaking figure, or a futuristic epic that allows her to flex those commanding muscles. Or perhaps she'll surprise us with a role in a gritty detective series, showing off a side of her we haven't seen before. The beauty of Angela Bassett's career is its constant evolution, its ability to reinvent and surprise. She’s not just an actress; she’s a force of nature, a storyteller, and a true icon. And we can’t wait to see what story she tells next.