Academy Award season saw its share of surprises, but none as poignant as Demi Moore’s loss to 25-year-old up-and-comer Mikey Madison at the Oscars. Despite being considered a frontrunner for her role in “The Substance,” a film about women over 50 facing indignities in Hollywood, Moore was snubbed in favor of Madison, who won for playing a sex worker in the film “Anora.”
Moore’s performance was widely praised and earned her numerous awards this season, including those at the Critics Choice Awards and the Golden Globes. Her acceptance speeches were also met with critical acclaim, with many calling them “amazing” and “career-defining.” However, when Madison took home the Oscar for Best Actress, fans of Moore expressed disappointment and puzzlement.
Some have pointed to the theme of ageism present in both films as a factor contributing to the outcome. The academy’s voter rolls have become more diverse in recent years, leading to an increase in older actresses winning major awards. This shift has reduced the advantage typically given to younger actors.
Moore had seemed to be on a roll heading into Sunday night’s ceremony, having picked up several other prestigious awards this season. Her performance in “The Substance” was seen as a powerful exploration of the challenges faced by women over 50 in Hollywood. However, it appears that Madison’s performance and charm may have carried the day.
Moore herself appeared to take her loss in stride, with her daughter Tallulah Willis sharing a lighthearted post on social media showing Moore enjoying a French fry with her dog Pilaf. Despite the disappointment of many fans, Moore remains a respected figure in Hollywood, having delivered a memorable speech about the value of self-worth during her Golden Globe acceptance.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/03/movies/demi-moore-oscars-snub.html