Iconic actress, Angela Bassett, was recently honored with an Oscar at the Governors Awards on Tuesday, January 9, 2024. However, it wasn’t her well-deserved recognition that got people talking the most. It was a sweet and heartfelt moment between Bassett and her close friend, fellow actress Regina King, that stirred up controversy online.
Pure Joy! Angela Bassett & Regina King Share Friendly Kiss as Angela Receives Honorary Oscar! 🏆♥️ pic.twitter.com/yHF6x85RUL
— Gaye Magazine (@GayeMagazine) January 10, 2024
During the award ceremony, King had the honor of presenting Bassett with the prestigious award. In her heartfelt speech, King reflected on their sisterhood and the time they have spent working together in the industry. As Bassett took the stage to accept her award, she embraced King and gave her a brief kiss on the lips before they went their separate ways.
It’s safe to say that Regina King gave Angela Bassett her flowers and MORE 💐
This is how you honor someone. What a beautiful speech. pic.twitter.com/OJYVCFliEL
— Okayplayer (@okayplayer) January 10, 2024
Instead of celebrating the achievement and the bond between these two talented actresses, some people focused on the kiss and criticized them. Across social media, users expressed their disappointment, in online comments, about the actresses.
2024 is fr crazy asl we only in the first month and got damn Angela Bassett and Regina King kissing lmao mannnn what tf going on ??? 😅 pic.twitter.com/LAH0SZjr78
— Tee🦋 (@teeelatricee) January 10, 2024
Who else thinks it's a coincidence that the night Angela Bassett finally won an Oscar she also had to kiss Regina King?
That Oscar wasn't worth your soul auntie 😞 https://t.co/QdcMP4BP5B
— Afro Elite (@TheAfroElite) January 10, 2024
“This what she did on camera. Imagine what she had to do off camera. We all remember what Halle had to do to win her one and only Oscar,” commented another.
“The millions she had wasn’t enough. She still wanted that Oscar and was willing to tongue kiss on camera for it. Remember Regina King ‘lost’ her son to an apparent suicide. Now you’re on stage making out with a woman. Nice,” wrote another.
Another fan commented, ““And you find this surprising?? They made Halle Berry cancel her nudity clause in her contract so she can do “Monsters ball.” They made Denzel Washington lowered his integrity by having him play a crooked cop. Don’t get me started with the rest of the black actors who won Oscars (all of the other female black Oscars winners are mostly for for best supporting actress, implying that Halle Berry, will be the first and last black woman who win the best actress). The rest are either pity Oscars or best male actor Oscar. Hollywood will always be corrupt and they get great pleasure in humiliating strong, prideful, Black actors and actresses.”
It’s disheartening to see such negativity overshadow a moment of recognition and sisterly love. The kiss between Bassett and King was an expression of love and admiration between two Black women who have fought side by side in Hollywood, challenging the stereotypes and barriers they face.
Love comes in many forms, and it’s a beautiful thing to witness, whether it’s romantic, platonic, or something in between.
Simply put, Angela Bassett’s long-overdue Oscar win is a moment to be celebrated, showcasing her incredible talent and contributions to the entertainment industry. Angela and Regina have are strong women though. So even if their fans choose to not focus on the positive aspects of their bond, pretty sure these two queens will continue to inspire millions and pave the way for future generations.
