Lea Salonga’s daughter Nicole Chien had perhaps the only acceptable response to encountering actress Angela Bassett.
Bassett recently starred in the critically-acclaimed film “Black Panther”, where she ruled as the noble Ramonda, Queen Mother of Wakanda, a fictional, highly-advanced nation in Africa.
Angela Bassett as Wakanda Queen Mother Ramonda. Image: Facebook/@blackpanthermovie
She is also known for starring in the horror drama anthology “American Horror Story” and portraying Tina Turner in the biopic “What’s Love Got to Do with It”.
So when Chien met Bassett backstage on Broadway’s “Once on This Island”, she did what any person in their right mind would do: bow while performing the “Wakanda Forever” salute.
“So THIS happened tonight after the show!!! My daughter knelt to Wakanda’s Queen Mother!!!” Salonga said in awe. “Thank you for your kindness, @im.angelabassett!!! We were so honored by your presence!!! #WakandaForever”
Bassett appeared touched by the surprising reaction and gave Chien a hug and a kiss on the forehead.
Since the movie’s premiere, the Wakanda salute has quickly caught on to pop culture, especially among black people who view it as a gesture of black pride and solidarity.
Chadwick Boseman as T’Challa while performing the Wakanda salute. Image: Facebook/@blackpanthermovie
Athletes like Manchester United’s Paul Pogba and Jesse Lingard have even adopted it for their game celebrations. JB
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