TODAY’S PAPER | January 22, 2026 | EPAPER

Angela Bassett loves Teyana Taylor’s 'Waiting to Exhale' SNL promo

Bassett praises Taylor’s fiery homage to her iconic movie scene ahead of Saturday Night Live appearance


Pop Culture & Art January 22, 2026 1 min read
Photo: SNL/Netflix

Oscar‑winning actress Angela Bassett enthusiastically reacted to a Saturday Night Live promotional clip in which host Teyana Taylor channels Bassett’s unforgettable Waiting to Exhale scene, calling the parody a hit and sharing her delight online. The promo, released ahead of Taylor’s hosting gig, playfully mirrors a famous moment from the 1995 film, complete with dramatic flair and fiery homage that delighted fans and creators alike.

In the sketch, Taylor and cast member Ashley Padilla find themselves seeking vengeance after a fellow cast member ate Padilla’s eggplant parmesan, prompting a comedic reenactment of Bassett’s iconic scene as Bernadine — complete with dramatic costume and heightened emotion.

The clip sees Taylor shouting classic lines and even staging her own version of the memorable fire‑setting moment, capturing the original’s spirit with a humorous twist.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Bassett took to social media to share her reaction, writing, “You got me GOOD! xoAng,” showing that she appreciated the affectionate and comedic tribute to her character and the film’s cultural impact. Her positive response underscored how revisiting beloved cinematic moments through comedy can resonate with both original stars and new audiences.

Waiting to Exhale, which starred Bassett alongside Whitney Houston, Loretta Devine, and Lela Rochon, remains a celebrated story about friendship and resilience, and Taylor’s homage ahead of her SNL episode honours that legacy while adding a fresh comedic spin.

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