Teyana Taylor SNL Waiting to Exhale Parody Earns Angela Bassett’s Praise

A 31-year-old cinematic flame just got reignited on the SNL stage. Oscar winner Angela Bassett just gave her official seal of approval to Teyana Taylor’s hilarious spoof of the 1995 classic Waiting to Exhale.

Teyana Taylor SNL Waiting to Exhale Spoof Recreates Iconic Scene

Ahead of her hosting gig on January 24, 2026, Teyana Taylor starred in a promo that paid homage to Bassett's character, Bernadine. In the original film, Bernadine famously torched her cheating husband's car and belongings. In the SNL version, the stakes are a bit lower—but no less intense.

The conflict? A stolen eggplant parmesan. Taylor, donning a silk robe and flowing hair, channels Bassett's iconic fury as she destroys a dressing room. She even counts 732 bobbleheads, a nod to the original scene where Bernadine counts her husband’s perfectly lined-up shoes. "You don't deserve this, Bernadine!" Taylor shouts, fully committing to the bit.

Angela Bassett's Reaction: "You Got Me GOOD!"

The parody didn't just catch the eye of fans; it caught the eye of the Queen herself. According to Entertainment Weekly, Angela Bassett commented on the video, saying, "I love this sooo sooo much!!!! You got me GOOD! xoAng."

The film, based on the 1992 book by Terry McMillan, remains a cultural touchstone. It's clear that Taylor’s attention to detail—down to the cigarette and the vengeful walk—struck a chord with both the original star and a new generation of viewers.