Angela Bassett, the iconic American actress, has finally clinched her first-ever Emmy Award.
After nine nominations, the legendary star won the award for Best Narrator at the 2024 Creative Arts Emmys.
ANGELA BASSETT’S EMMY WIN
Bassett earned this recognition for her powerful work on National Geographic’s docuseries Queens.
This documentary showcases animal matriarchies around the world, according to IMDB
In her acceptance speech, Bassett expressed her excitement and gratitude. “It feels good; really, really good,” she said, beaming with joy.
“Thank you to National Geographic, Wild Star Film, and all the directors— all women— who brought this incredible story to life.”
ANGELA BASSETT AND THE PRODUCTION TEAM
Her enthusiasm was palpable as she praised the “ferocious and magnificent” subjects of the series.
Bassett’s connection to the project was clear, and her words resonated with the audience.
Queens is a seven-part series that shines a spotlight on female-led animal societies.
What makes this series even more unique is its all-female production team, according to AP News.
According to Bassett, this aspect of the project was a major factor in her decision to join.
ANGELA BASSETT’S SCHEDULE
In a previous interview with The Hollywood Reporter, she revealed that she initially turned down the opportunity.
“It was summertime, a hiatus [for 9-1-1]. It had been a long season.
I was looking forward to going on holiday, spending time with the family, and just having some downtime,” she explained.
But after seeing the sizzle reel, she changed her mind. “Once I did that, it didn’t pass me by.”
Bassett’s narration in Queens captivated audiences and critics alike.
THE EMMY PRESS ROOM
Her rich voice brought the stories of animal matriarchs to life, adding depth and emotion to the series.
Her involvement in a project led entirely by women was groundbreaking.
“Of course, it’s not work that you do alone, even though it’s narration,” she noted in the Emmy press room.
“There’s a whole team that pursued me, believed in me, fought for me, and worked with me to tell this amazing story of females in the wild kingdom.”
POWER OF PERSISTENCE
She continued, “Led by an all-female production team, a first in wildlife documentary filmmaking, that was pretty inspiring to me in and of itself.”
For South African audiences, Bassett’s win is a reminder of the power of persistence and the importance of recognising talent.
Her journey to this Emmy has been long, but she has remained a beloved figure on screens worldwide.
Bassett’s connection to African culture and her roles in films like Black Panther have endeared her to many South Africans.
PREVIOUS NOMINATIONS
This Emmy win adds another layer to her already impressive legacy.
Bassett’s nine previous nominations included a 2023 nod for Best Narrator for her work on Good Night Oppy.
CONGRATULATIONS
Despite the setbacks, she never gave up. Now, with her first Emmy in hand, it’s clear that Angela Bassett’s hard work has finally paid off.
“We don’t work for these,” she said, referring to awards like the Emmy. “But we receive them for all the hard work that we do.”
Bassett’s triumph at the 2024 Creative Arts Emmys is more than just a win. It’s a celebration of female power, resilience, and the ability to bring stories of strength to the world stage.