Celebrity (usartical)
Renowned for his role in 61st Street, Courtney B. Vance candidly shares his experience managing a flourishing Hollywood career while navigating parenthood alongside his wife, Angela Bassett. In an exclusive interview featured in this week’s PEOPLE issue, Vance, 63, provides insights into the couple’s strategic approach to maintaining stability and consistency in their family life. 
The Emmy-winning actor unveils a crucial rule established early on with Bassett, 65: “Somebody’s going to be home.” Vance emphasizes, “We’re never going to have both of us gone at the same time and the nanny raising the children.” This commitment has been a cornerstone for their fraternal twins, Bronwyn Golden and Slater Josiah, born in 2006, as the couple adeptly alternates between their professional commitments.
“My work allows me to return every other day, every two, three days, no more than a week,” Vance explains, citing his roles in Lovecraft Country and The People v. O.J. Simpson. Simultaneously, Bassett, maintaining a demanding schedule, departs for the set of her renowned show 9-1-1 before dawn and returns after nightfall.
In a separate feature within this week’s issue, part of Women Changing the World, Bassett reflects on the sacrifices accompanying her career. She shares occasional guilt but underscores the importance of being a role model for her children. “I hope that [my kids] will see a mama, a woman, a Black woman achieving her dreams, having success,” she expresses. 
As the couple’s 18-year-old twins embark on their college journey, Vance acknowledges the impending empty nest phase. Married since 1997, Vance notes, “Our life has been getting ready for this.” A glimpse into this new chapter occurred when the twins attended a summer camp in Texas, offering a preview of their future.
To prepare for their departure, the family embarked on a comprehensive college tour, visiting 26 universities. “And so they’re ready,” Vance confirms. Facing the transition to an empty nest, Vance humorously reflects on advice from friends, suggesting a post-drop-off vacation to savor the taste of deliciousness rather than lingering sadness.
Witnessing his children venture into adulthood is bittersweet for Vance, acknowledging it as a testament to successful parenting. “If you do it right, parenting is the job that you work yourself out of,” he reflects. 
In a lighthearted moment, Vance previously discussed the challenges of parenting twins, stating, “I always tell people that I go to work to rest and I come home to work.” Acknowledging the collaborative effort required in their bustling household, Vance provides a glimpse into the delicate balance of Hollywood stardom and parenthood.
For more insights into Angela Bassett’s professional and personal life, acquire a copy of this week’s PEOPLE issue, available on newsstands nationwide. The interview offers a captivating perspective on the intricate harmony of Hollywood success and family life for this accomplished power couple.