"I'd tell my 20-year-old self, 'Don't be afraid to do it all. Whatever you're interested in, just go ..." — Angela Bassett

I want to be evil! I did play Lady Macbeth on stage to Alec Baldwin's Macbeth back in New York in 1998. But I've played a lot of characters who are so righteous and understanding. I don't want to be a goody-goody two-shoes all the time.

I am content that the work that I've done is wonderful.

My mom was always pretty supportive. She saw me do plays and she'd always act out the parts I did. My aunt, who played a big part in my life, was a little bit more reserved, because if they don't see you on TV every week they think you must be starving.

The first time I acted was in high school in Florida, and when I heard that applause I felt so alive and felt that electricity go up my spine.