**Mikey Madison Takes Home First Oscar for Best Actress in *Anora***

Mikey Madison has secured her inaugural Academy Award, earning the title of Best Actress at the 2025 Oscars for her role in *Anora*. At only 25 years old, Madison has already made a notable mark in Hollywood. She first attracted attention for her performance in Quentin Tarantino’s *Once Upon a Time in Hollywood*, portraying a Manson family member who meets a grim fate in the film’s shocking climax.

After that groundbreaking role, Madison captivated horror enthusiasts in *Scream V*, grabbing the eye of renowned indie director Sean Baker. The filmmaker behind *The Florida Project* approached her for his recent work, *Anora*, which narrates the life of a Brooklyn sex worker coping with a tumultuous marriage to a young Russian heir.

Since its debut at the Cannes Film Festival last May, Madison’s portrayal has garnered extensive critical praise. In Mashable’s critique of *Anora*, it was remarked that “Madison isn’t portraying Ani; she’s embodying a woman fully, from her meticulously manicured pedicure to her shimmering hair extensions. Ani may not resemble anyone you know, but by the film’s conclusion, you will understand her intimately.”

Madison’s Oscar triumph comes after her wins at the Spirit Awards and the BAFTAs, further establishing her as one of the most promising talents in the field.

In her acceptance speech, Madison expressed her appreciation for the sex worker community, echoing sentiments voiced by Baker when he received the Best Original Screenplay award.

“I also just want to acknowledge again and honor the sex worker community,” Madison stated. “I will persist in supporting and being an ally. All of the remarkable individuals, the women I’ve had the honor of meeting from that community have been one of the highlights of this whole extraordinary journey.”

### **Where to View *Anora***
*Anora* can be rented or purchased on Prime Video.

*Additional reporting by Belen Edwards.*