LOS ANGELES (Reuters) – Actress Angela Bassett, known for her iconic roles as Tina Turner and the queen of Wakanda, was honored with an honorary Oscar at the annual Governors Awards. Comedian Mel Brooks also received the prestigious award in front of a star-studded crowd that included Leonardo DiCaprio, Bradley Cooper, and Natalie Portman.
During her acceptance speech, Bassett acknowledged the 10 Black women who have won Academy Awards and expressed her hope for more opportunities for people of color in the film industry. She emphasized the need for the industry to be more inclusive and forward-thinking, stating, “At the end of the day, we all just want to have the opportunity to do great, meaningful work.”
Bassett received two competitive Oscar nominations – the first for her role as Tina Turner in 1993’s “What’s Love Got to Do with It,” and the second for her portrayal of Queen Ramonda in 2022’s “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.”
The honorees, including Bassett and Brooks, were selected by the board of governors of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences, the same group responsible for presenting the Oscars in March.
97-year-old writer, director, and actor Mel Brooks, best known for his work on films like “Blazing Saddles” and “Young Frankenstein,” was recognized for his contributions to the film industry. He humorously mentioned that he would not sell his new Oscar statuette, unlike a previous one he had sold.
The academy also bestowed honors on film editor Carol Littleton and Sundance Film Festival executive Michelle Satter. The event was attended by several Hollywood stars and industry leaders.
Overall, the Governors Awards celebrated the achievements of Bassett, Brooks, and other notable figures in the film industry, highlighting their lasting impact and contributions to cinematic art. (Reporting by Lisa Richwine; Editing by Christina Fincher)
