Angela Bassett and Regina King Share a Powerful Kiss as She Receives Honorary Oscar

Angela Bassett did the thing. The Black Panther: Wakanda Forever star was awarded her first Oscar.

Delayed but not denied was the theme for Tuesday night’s Governors Awards, where 911 actress Angela Bassett was presented with an honorary Oscar for her accomplishments in the film industry. For movie fans worldwide, this win was long overdue but well-deserved.

For years, fans have taken to social media to express how they have felt that Angela Bassett is snubbed every award season. Although this is her first Oscar, she has not gone under the academy’s radar. In the past, she has received the Best Actress nomination for her portrayal of Tina Turner in What’s Love Got to Do With It and Best Supporting Actress in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, but has never won in any category.

Bassett was presented with her trophy by her How Stella Got Her Groove Back castmate, Regina King. King described her decade-long friend as a “national treasure.” It was no surprise that the audience agreed. After a stunning introduction, the two Oscar winners shared a quick peck onstage that shook the internet for the rest of the night.

Angela Bassett got an honorary Oscar and the first thing she did was kiss a Women. She’s so me fr

— amarijneveah (@rii_ama) January 10, 2024

As she joined the ranks of fellow actors who’ve received honorary Oscars, such as Cicely Tyson and James Earl Jones, the 65-year-old actress didn’t disappoint with her acceptance. Bassett thanked her family, colleagues, and the Black actresses who helped pave the way for her in Hollywood.

After delivering a 15-minute speech, she concluded with a quote from the phenomenal Maya Angelou that ended with “People will never forget how you made them feel.” She later took to Instagram with the hashtags #TheBestIsYetToCome and #ImNotDoneYet.

There is no doubt that Bassett’s career ventures will earn her another Academy Award soon.