LOS ANGELES – On Sunday, Mikey Madison captured the best actress Oscar for her compelling role in the film “Anora.” At just 25, Madison transitioned from television to a flourishing film career with this win.
The evening proved monumental for “Anora,” a film set in Brooklyn that clinched a total of five Oscars, prominently including best picture and best director for Sean Baker.
Madison expressed her disbelief, saying, “Wow, this is very surreal,” as she embraced Baker and her colleagues before stepping onto the stage. Overcome with emotion, she admitted her nerves before reading a list of acknowledgments from her notes.
Initially recognized for her role in the FX comedy series “Better Things,” which concluded in 2022, Madison is also noted for her appearances in “Once Upon a Time … in Hollywood” and the recent “Scream” film. Her performances caught the eye of director-writer Sean Baker, who crafted the leading role in “Anora” specifically for her.
To embody her character, Madison tackled a variety of challenges: she learned Russian, performed her own stunts, and trained in pole dancing to portray an exotic dancer who marries a Russian oligarch’s son. On stage, she highlighted her dedication to advocating for the sex worker community.
“Anora” debuted to stunning reviews at Cannes, where it won the prestigious Palme d’Or. The film flourished at the box office, with earnings far surpassing its modest $6 million production budget.
Ahead of the Oscars, many had expected Demi Moore to take home the award for her role in “The Substance,” as she previously outshined Madison at the Golden Globes and SAG Awards. Nonetheless, Madison seized the BAFTA and the Independent Spirit Award shortly before the Oscar voting closed.
Madison, whose full name is Mikaela Madison Rosberg, was raised in Los Angeles, the daughter of psychologist parents. Her foray into acting began after years as a competitive horseback rider, a solitary sport compared to the communal world of acting, which appealed to her.
“Even though I grew up in LA, Hollywood seemed such a distant dream to me,” she remarked. “I can hardly believe this is happening.”
Backstage, Madison lovingly held her Oscar, saying, “My mind is all over the place and my heart is about to explode right now,” with a joyful smile. With nine films under her belt since her debut in 2017’s “Liza, Liza, Skies Are Grey,” Madison looks to a bright future.
“I have no idea where things will lead, but I’m eager to keep making movies,” she enthusiastically shared. The film “Anora” reaffirmed her passion for acting and creative endeavors.
But first, Madison intends to reunite with her new puppies, humorously noting that the routine of caring for them will have a grounding effect.
Alongside Madison, the nominees included Cynthia Erivo for “Wicked,” Karla Sofía Gascón for “Emilia Pérez,” and Fernanda Torres for “I’m Still Here.”
