Angela Bassett has just snagged the first Emmy of her career.
The acclaimed actress, who has accumulated a remarkable nine Emmy nominations throughout her nearly four decades in the industry, clinched the trophy for Best Narrator at the 2024 Creative Arts Emmys on September 7th. The accolade was for her outstanding work on “Queens,” a National Geographic docuseries exploring the powerful matriarchies in the animal kingdom.
When Angela took the stage, drawing cheers from the crowd, she exclaimed, “My first Emmy!” before delivering her touching acceptance speech.
The “What’s Love Got To Do With It” star also reflected on this career-defining moment in the press room and on social media. This milestone arrived just months after the 66-year-old received an honorary Oscar for her incredible contributions to the film industry.
Asked why she seemed surprised by her win despite its clear merit, Bassett replied, “This is one of the really, really big ones, you know what I mean? And so that … that doesn’t usually happen.”
She added, “But also, whenever you’re acknowledged … I’m just a girl who just wanted to act, and my mentors were way out ahead of me. I just looked to them for inspiration and hope and put my focus, energy, and love into making it happen for my life.”
Bassett reflected on her first love of acting and how moments like this—her Emmy win—are deeply appreciated. In a heartfelt Instagram post on September 7th, Bassett reiterated her shock and gratitude, sharing a stunning image of her award show look.
“My very first #Emmy. It feels really good to hold this in my hands. Thank you to the @televisionacad for recognizing me and the extraordinary story that the #Queens docuseries tells. So much of my life is spent on camera telling stories, that when I have the opportunity to step back and let these majestic, powerful creatures take the spotlight, I am honored to be their voice,” Bassett wrote.
