Angela Bassett

Angela Bassett Instagram – “Hello Ms. Tyson, I’m Angela Bassett. It’s an honor to meet and work with you.” Those were the first words I ever spoke to the incomparable Ms. #CicelyTyson. Early in my career, I’d been cast in a movie based on Sherley Anne Williams’ novel, Dessa Rose, alongside Ms. Tyson. It was a big deal for me, not only as an actress but for me as a woman who was about to work alongside someone who I greatly admired, respected and adored. When we got word that Ms. Tyson was on her way, I got up out of my seat in the room where we all awaited her arrival. I walked out of the room and stood quietly as I watched Ms. Tyson walk down the hallway. I could have waited until she entered the room, but this was my idol. This was “the” Ms. Cicely Tyson. I understood the magnitude of what a moment like that, even just to carve out those few seconds to say hello, would mean to me for the rest of my life. And something beautiful happened during this time. I gained a forever friend and mentor. She made the time and opportunity to work, to bond, to support, to encourage, to teach, to love…me. Although the movie was not completed due to circumstances beyond our control, those precious moments are seared in my memory. On this night, as we pay respect to Ms. Tyson, let us remember all that she contributed to this planet through her talent, perseverance, and strength. During a recent interview as she spoke about her memoir, Just As I Am, which just published two days ago, she was asked by the reporter about death. What struck me were her words: “I’m grateful for every day that God gives me.” Ms. Tyson, we are infinitely grateful for every day that God gave you to us. For all of us little black and brown girls who dared to dream big and bold that we, too, deserved to be seen, heard, and loved, both on the screen and off. Rest in Power, my sweet, beautiful QUEEN. | Posted on 29/Jan/2021 08:48:15