The world of music and film recently mourned the loss of a legend, Tina Turner, who passed away on May 24, 2023, at the age of 83 in her Switzerland home. Her impact on the music industry and her resilience in the face of adversity have left an indelible mark. This article pays tribute to Tina Turner and the heartfelt connection she shared with Angela Bassett, who portrayed her in the 1993 biopic “What’s Love Got to Do With It.”

A Legacy Remembered
Tina Turner’s journey in the music industry began in the 1960s, and she quickly rose to fame with her powerful voice and electrifying performances. Her life story, full of challenges and triumphs, became the subject of the biographical film that earned Angela Bassett an Oscar nomination.

Angela Bassett’s portrayal of Tina Turner in “What’s Love Got to Do With It” was nothing short of remarkable. In a statement provided to NBC News by her representative, Bassett expressed the profound impact Turner had on her life. She described the difficulty of saying goodbye to someone as impactful as Turner and questioned how to bid farewell to a woman who courageously used her own pain and trauma to bring about change in the world.

Turner’s Message to Bassett
Angela Bassett shared Tina Turner’s final words to her, which were deeply touching. Turner told Bassett, “You never imitated me; instead, you dug deep within yourself until you discovered your inner Tina and displayed her to the world. I will keep these words close to my heart for the rest of my days.” This heartfelt message reflects the admiration and respect Turner had for Bassett’s portrayal.

After TIME Magazine recognized Angela Bassett as one of the 100 most influential people of the year, Tina Turner penned an essay for the publication in Bassett’s honor. In the essay, Turner admitted her initial reservations about the biopic, believing that no one could sing and dance as well as she could. However, she soon realized that Bassett was the perfect choice to portray her, as she didn’t imitate, but rather embodied the essence of Tina.

Bassett’s Call to Action
In her statement, Angela Bassett encouraged people to connect with their “inner Tina.” Turner had shown the world what a beautiful future filled with love, compassion, and freedom could look like through her courage in telling her story. Bassett’s message resonates with the idea that each person has a unique inner strength waiting to be discovered and shared.

Tina Turner’s passing marks the end of an era in music, but her legacy lives on through her timeless songs and the impact she had on those who knew her. Angela Bassett’s portrayal and the deep connection they shared serve as a testament to Turner’s enduring influence.