While many predicted Demi Moore to win, Madison made history by becoming the first actress to win an Oscar for her role in Anora, which swept most of the night’s top categories, including Best Picture.
Mikey Madison, the 25-year-old actress, was presented the Best Actress award by last year’s winner, Emma Stone. In a moment of shock, Madison expressed her disbelief, calling the experience “surreal.” She expressed her gratitude to the cast and crew she worked with on the indie film, saying, “This is incredibly surreal. I grew up in LA, but Hollywood always felt so distant from me. To be standing in this room is truly remarkable.”
Madison also extended her heartfelt thanks to her parents, younger siblings, and her twin brother, Miles, whom she affectionately referred to as her “best friend.”
Mikey Madison accepts the #Oscar award for best actress for starring in #Anora pic.twitter.com/P1BgZQAcd6
— The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) March 3, 2025
“Not that you have a choice,” Madison quipped before thanking the community of Brighton Beach, where most of the film was shot.
Madison, who portrays a sex worker from Brooklyn who finds her Cinderella story when she meets and marries the son of an oligarch in the film, took a moment during her speech to express her gratitude to the sex worker community. She pledged to continue supporting and being an ally to them as her career progresses.
“I want to once again recognize and honor the sex worker community. I will continue to support and be an ally. The women I’ve had the privilege of meeting from that community have been one of the highlights of this incredible experience,” she added.
Madison emerged victorious over her fellow nominees, including Demi Moore (The Substance), Cynthia Erivo (Wicked), Karla Sofia Gascón (Emilia Pérez), and Fernanda Torres (I’m Still Here).
For her portrayal of Anora, Madison received numerous accolades throughout the awards season. In addition to the prestigious Academy Award, she also secured the Golden Globe and BAFTA.
Anora also made history on Sunday night, winning several awards, including Sean Baker for Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, Best Film Editing, and the coveted Best Picture award.
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