Angela Bassett Had Just One Month To Prepare For Her Role As Tina Turner

Angela Bassett's legendary performance as Tina Turner in the 1993 biopic What’s Love Got to Do with It is widely regarded as one of the most powerful portrayals in film history. But what many people don’t know is that Bassett had just one month to prepare for the physically demanding and emotionally intense role that would change the trajectory of her career.

After auditioning in October 1992, Bassett was officially cast in November, with production set to begin in December. That gave her only a handful of weeks to transform herself into the Queen of Rock 'n' Roll — and she did not take the challenge lightly.

To embody Turner’s fierce stage presence, high-energy performances, and dramatic life story, Bassett committed to a grueling daily routine. Each day, she would engage in 2.5 hours of exercise, followed by 10 hours of dance rehearsal, immersing herself in Tina Turner’s world both physically and mentally. The intense training was crucial in capturing Turner’s explosive energy and iconic movements, particularly for the film’s elaborate performance scenes.

Bassett’s commitment paid off. Her portrayal earned her widespread acclaim, including a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy, and an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. To this day, her transformation into Tina Turner remains one of the most remarkable feats of dedication and talent in biopic history.

Angela Bassett didn’t just play Tina Turner — she became her. And she did it with only one month of preparation, proving that with focus, work ethic, and raw talent, anything is possible.