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witter has been on fire due to award-winning actress Angela Bassett’s controversial reaction to losing at the Oscars. While some applaud her for being real, some say she’s on a sore-loser vibe. The 2023 Oscar Awards was a night filled with the usual Hollywood razmataz, as the industry’s finest gathered to celebrate the best of the best in the film world. Among the nominees was the legendary Angela Bassett, whose outstanding performance in the hit movie “Black Panther” earned her a well-deserved spot in the Best Supporting Actress category.
However, when Jamie Curtis Lee was announced as the winner of the category, Bassett, unlike other nominees, didn’t stand to congratulate Lee. She didn’t smile, didn’t clap, she just wore a silent sad smirk of disappointment. This reaction has sparked a conversation, one that involves racial segregation in Hollywood. Was her disappointment justified, or was it a case of sour grapes? The Twitterverse exploded with debates and opinions—both valid and overboard IMO.
The aftermath of Angela Bassett’s reaction
Angela Bassett’s reaction to Jamie Lee Curtis’ name being called…you can tell how much that Oscar would have meant to her. she is, was, and always will be incredible. I better see her on that stage SOON pic.twitter.com/oHDfuDUksG
— Spencer Althouse (@SpencerAlthouse) March 13, 2023
After an impeccable four decades of belting out iconic movies, it’s almost unbelievable that Ms. Bassett has never worn an Oscar. As undeniable as her talents are, as graceful as she’s been over the years, it’s not about resenting the winner of the category, but perhaps, a letdown on her expectations. If you have worked your head off trying to be the best at what you do, the taste of loss is indeed sour.
Some argue her reaction was unprofessional, and as women in the industry, it is important to support each other, regardless of who takes home the prize.
Angela Bassett is an amazing actress, but the sore loser vibe… 😕 It would be great to see women supporting each other, even in the face of disappointment (esp. during women’s history month)
— Magnolia Peach (@Peachalicious00) March 13, 2023
Pretty unprofessional of her. I'm sure if she had won, Jamie would have yelled Angela's name out of sheer joy. That is why it is said that there are two kinds of people.
— Björn (@bjorn_hefnoll) March 13, 2023
Others suggest that Bassett had every right to be disappointed, as her performance in “Black Panther” was exceptional and many believed she was the front-runner for the award.
She was robbed! Jamie Lee Curtis ? Are u serious?
— Shawn O. Green (@ShawnOGreen) March 13, 2023
On the other hand, some people have criticized Lee’s win, claiming that she did not deserve the award and that it was handed to her on a silver platter due to her connections as a nepo baby.
A ton of y’all calling her a sore loser lack understanding of how Jamie’s win was underserved. Her performance was good but not on the level of Angela’s. She also won because she’s a nepo baby and they felt pitty for her cause she’s been in the industry so long
— Ithan Vega 🇵🇷 (@ithanvega) March 13, 2023
Segregation in Hollywood
The explosion of reactions surrounding Bassett’s loss and Lee’s win has once again led to allegations of nepotism and favoritism within the industry, where those with influential connections are likely to win awards, regardless of their talent or performance.
Additionally, some suggested Bassett’s loss was a result of the systemic racism that still exists in the entertainment industry. This viewpoint posits that Black actors and actresses are often overlooked or denied recognition for their work, despite their immense talent and contribution to the industry.
Even the auntie was shocked she won. I don’t get it man. Black talents are always overlooked in Hollywood. Imagine if they create their own awards and studios and leave yt Hollywood alone what would happen
— Leroy (@SliqTalker) March 13, 2023
Ultimately, the various perspectives on Bassett’s reaction reveal the complex and nuanced nature of the entertainment scene. While some may criticize her reaction, it is important to recognize the systemic issues that underlie the industry and impact how talent is recognized and rewarded.
Award ceremonies have long been criticized for their lack of diversity and bias against underrepresented groups in Hollywood, including people of color and women. The controversy surrounding Angela Bassett’s reaction to losing the Oscar highlights these ongoing issues in the entertainment industry.
For years, critics have argued that award shows often favor traditional Hollywood power structures, which have historically excluded minorities and women from opportunities for recognition and success. In recent years, however, there has been a growing push for more diverse representation and inclusion in the industry. This push has been fueled in part by the #OscarsSoWhite movement, which brought attention to the lack of diversity among Oscar nominees and winners.
Despite these efforts, it’s safe to say that the industry continues to grapple with issues of underrepresentation and bias. While it is important to celebrate and honor the achievements of those who do receive recognition, it is equally important to acknowledge and address the systemic issues that continue to limit opportunities for underrepresented groups in Hollywood.
In this context, Bassett’s reaction to losing the Oscar is not just valid, but understandable. As a Black woman who has undoubtedly faced her fair share of challenges in the industry, she has every right to feel frustrated by the continued lack of diversity and representation in these awards shows. Her reaction highlights the ongoing need for greater diversity and inclusion in Hollywood and serves as a reminder that the industry must do better if it truly wants to recognize and honor the full range of talent and achievement in its ranks.
Featured image: Anthony Maule for InStyle Magazine via @im.angelabassett/Instagram
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