Veteran actress Angela Bassett has expressed interest in returning to one of her most memorable roles, Bernadine Harris, from the 1995 romantic drama Waiting to Exhale. This classic film, directed by Forest Whitaker and adapted from Terry McMillan’s bestselling novel, featured Bassett alongside Whitney Houston, Loretta Devine, and Lela Rochon, telling the story of four women dealing with love, friendship, and heartbreak.
Bassett shared to Parade her desire to explore where her character might be now, noting how life has evolved since the original film’s release. She sees potential in revisiting Bernadine’s story to uncover how much her character has grown through experiences over the years.
Maybe Waiting to Exhale, so I can see where we are now,
Bassett said, contemplating the character’s progression. She envisions Bernadine, known for her rebellious act of burning her cheating husband’s luxury car, continuing to thrive but with added depth and wisdom resulting from decades of life’s challenges.
Imagining Bernadine’s Life After the Original Story
Bassett elaborated on how Bernadine and her friends would have matured, reflecting on the trials they would have faced, including parenting young and teenage children, navigating complicated relationships, and enduring infidelities. The actress highlighted that their continued journey would involve gaining insight and strength from these experiences.
We’re still fabulous, but more mature, [with] more experiences and wisdom,
Bassett explained.
We’ve gone through [everything from] the young children and the teenage kids, and the husbands, the lovers, the indiscretions. Where [have] we landed now? That might be interesting.
She also offered a glimpse of hope for Bernadine’s future, imagining the character may have found new companionship after years of struggle.
[Bernadine] probably met someone to spend some time with. I hope so. I think so,
Bassett added, suggesting a sweet possibility for the character’s personal growth and happiness continuing beyond the film’s original ending.
Angela Bassett’s Advocacy and Potential Plans Amid Health Awareness Campaign
In the same interview, Bassett emphasized her involvement with GSK’s Sideline RSV campaign, aiming to raise public awareness about the respiratory syncytial virus, which is particularly concerning as the U.S. faces the peak of cold and flu season. This advocacy reflects Bassett’s dedication to using her platform for important health issues.
The prospect of a sequel or revival of Waiting to Exhale remains a hopeful notion, with Bassett’s reflections signaling that the character’s next chapter could still be written. Fans of Bassett and the original film may soon see Bernadine Harris evolve on screen once again, combining nostalgia with contemporary relevance.
