During the 95th Academy Awards on Sunday, Angela Bassett did not triumph like her character Queen Ramonda from the “Black Panther” series.
Bassett was nominated for Best Supporting Actress, but the prize went to Jamie Lee Curtis for her portrayal of Deirdre Beaubeirdre in the highly acclaimed and Academy Award-winning film “Everything, Everything, Everywhere.”
As Ariana DeBose and Troy Kotsur surprised Curtis by saying her name, the cameras were pointed at all five candidates. “Oh, shut up,” she was heard saying.
The cameras did not immediately move away from the losers, Hong Chau, Kerry Condon, Stephanie Hsu, and Bassett, who did not seem happy.
Social media users instantly slammed Bassett for failing to celebrate or smile after Curtis was proclaimed the winner, labeling her a “sore loser.”
Despite the defeat, Bassett made history by being the first actor to be nominated for an Oscar for a role in a Marvel picture.
Bassett’s “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” co-star Michael B. Jordan and “Ant-Man” actor Jonathan Majors stepped out on stage soon after Curtis won to present the award for best cinematography.
“Hey Auntie,” Jordan said fondly to Bassett in support. The 64-year-old actress sat front and center in the audience.
“We love you,” Majors said.
Several people defended Angela on social media. Another person praised Bassett’s work.
Another individual had a different take on the viral response, adding,”I really believe Angela Bassett was just stunned when she didn’t hear her name called. But I don’t think she was being a sore loser or that she was bitter about Jamie Lee Curtis winning. So I hope people would stop attacking both these super talented actors.”
Both ladies received honors during this award season.
For best supporting actress, Bassett received the Golden Globe and Critics Choice Awards, while Curtis received the Screen Actors Guild Award.
The Oscars are decided by members of the Academy.
