Sunday Sitdown with Willie Geist
Angela Bassett on Presidential Role in Netflix's "Zero Day"
Mar 2, 2025
Angela Bassett, an Emmy and Golden Globe-winning actress, discusses her powerful role as President in Netflix's 'Zero Day', sharing insights on portraying leadership during chaos. She reflects on her iconic roles, from Tina Turner to Queen Ramonda, highlighting the challenges and inspirations that shaped her career. The conversation also touches on the importance of diversity in storytelling and the impact of ensemble films, particularly in advancing representation in cinema. Bassett's artistic journey is a testament to resilience and gratitude.
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Quick takeaways
- Angela Bassett discusses the challenge of portraying a vulnerable yet authoritative president in the Netflix series 'Zero Day' amidst a cyber crisis.
- Reflecting on her career, Bassett emphasizes the importance of representation and timing in gaining significant roles for black actresses.
Deep dives
Angela Bassett's Role in 'Zero Day'
Angela Bassett stars as the President of the United States in the Netflix series 'Zero Day,' which explores the aftermath of a significant cyber attack. The storyline follows the chaos and uncertainty that unfolds as the nation grapples with this unprecedented event, leading to the involvement of a former president, played by Robert De Niro, to head an investigation. Bassett highlights the challenge of portraying a leader under pressure, emphasizing the need to balance authority while also presenting vulnerability in the face of uncertainty. The director, Leslie Linka Glatter, alongside a strong cast, contributes to the gripping narrative that resonates with real-world concerns about cybersecurity.
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