Mikey Madison wins first Academy Award for her role in Anora at just 26 years old

At just 26, Mikey Madison has made history by clinching her first Academy Award for her remarkable performance in *Anora*.

Mikey Madison, at just 26 years old, has achieved what many aspire to in a lifetime: winning her first Academy Award for her performance in the film Anora. What's particularly surprising is not only her youth but also the brevity of her career thus far. While actresses like Jennifer Lawrence have won Oscars at a younger age, Madison's rapid rise to prominence is noteworthy given her limited experience.

The actress first gained attention with her role in Quentin Tarantino's Once Upon a Time in Hollywood and became a household name among younger audiences through her portrayal of Amber Freeman in Scream 5, a beloved franchise that sought to rejuvenate itself after years of dormancy. Joining the ranks of such a legendary series, especially after an eleven-year hiatus, placed significant expectations on Madison's shoulders. Her role in the reboot was pivotal, contributing to a resurgence that not only prompted a sixth installment but also hinted at a potential seventh.

However, Madison's depiction of a villainous character in Scream 5 drew some backlash from fans, particularly for the controversial death of a cherished character, Dewey Riley. The scene, which featured Madison's character committing a shocking and brutal act, left fans in uproar, with many expressing their frustration directly to her. In a candid interview, she reflected on the overwhelming reaction: "I felt a little sad because I thought, 'Oh, it's a great character. It will be sad to see him go.' Then I realized the pain so many people felt. They would come up to me and say, 'I hate that this happened. I'm mad at you,' and I would respond, 'I'm really sorry, I didn't write the script! I didn't want to do it.'

Only two years later, however, Madison's hard work and dedication have culminated in Oscar glory with Anora, stunning audiences by winning against formidable contenders like Emilia Pérez and the favorite, Demi Moore. This victory positions her as a rising star in Hollywood and a talent to watch in the years to come.