At the 2025 Academy Awards, Mikey Madison was crowned Best Actress, marking a significant moment in her career and the industry. In a heartfelt speech, Madison expressed her gratitude for the recognition, acknowledging the privilege of being part of a transformative journey for women in film. She reflected on the impact of her role and the strides women are making in Hollywood. Although she humbly noted that she is not the ultimate answer, she feels honored to be a small part of this larger movement toward more representation and opportunity for women in the industry.

Madison’s performance in The Substance had been widely recognized throughout the award season, with many praising her raw talent and emotional depth. She was considered the frontrunner for the prestigious Oscar for Best Actress, yet the competition was fierce. Among the nominees was Dei Moore, who had captivated audiences with her powerful performance and was thought to be one of the most deserving contenders.

Despite losing the Oscar to the 25-year-old Madison, Moore displayed nothing but grace and positivity. She took to social media to congratulate Madison, sharing her excitement and admiration for her fellow nominee’s achievements. Moore wrote, “Huge congratulations to Mikey Madison. I can’t wait to see what you do next,” expressing her joy for Madison’s victory and her anticipation for the future of her career.

In her post, Moore also took a moment to highlight the incredible work of all the nominees, acknowledging their talent and the artistry they brought to the screen. She pointed out how honored she was to be recognized alongside such remarkable women, recognizing their contributions to the cinematic world. Moore specifically praised Madison’s performance in The Substance, calling it thoughtful, intelligent, and breathtaking, showcasing her appreciation for the depth and vulnerability Madison brought to her role.

The two actresses had crossed paths frequently during the awards season, and Moore noted how kind and supportive Madison had been throughout the journey. Their camaraderie was evident, and both shared mutual respect for one another’s work. It was a refreshing reminder of the genuine spirit of collaboration and appreciation that can exist in an industry often marked by competition.

As Madison accepted her Oscar, she acknowledged the significance of the moment not just for herself but for all women in the industry. She thanked her team, her family, and those who supported her along the way, recognizing how important it was to be part of a new wave of storytelling that embraces diverse voices and experiences. Her win at the Academy Awards not only solidified her place in Hollywood but also represented a moment of progress for women in cinema, signaling that their stories, talent, and contributions are being acknowledged on the world’s biggest stage.

For Madison, this was just the beginning. She expressed her excitement for future projects, eager to continue breaking barriers and inspiring others in the industry. Her win also served as an important reminder of the power of representation and the potential for change when diverse voices are given the platform they deserve.

In a season filled with intense competition and incredible performances, Mikey Madison’s victory was a moment that transcended the accolades and awards, serving as a symbol of progress, talent, and the promise of a brighter future for women in film.