Long before the glittering lights of the Oscars and the BAFTA stage illuminated her path, Mikey Madison was quietly building a compelling career, marked by nuanced performances and a distinct screen presence.

Early steps and breakthrough roles

Madison’s journey began with short films, honing her craft in projects like Retirement and Pani’s Box in 2013. Her first feature film, Liza, Liza, Skies Are Grey, filmed in 2014, offered a glimpse of her potential, though it wasn’t released until 2017.

Her breakthrough came with the FX comedy-drama series Better Things (2016-2022), where she portrayed Max Fox, a character that resonated with audiences for her authentic portrayal of teenage angst. This role established her ability to capture complex emotions with subtlety and depth.

Venturing into diverse territories

Madison’s versatility became increasingly evident as she took on diverse roles. She guest-starred in the dark comedy Imposters (2017-2018) and appeared in the drama films Monster and Nostalgia (2018), showcasing her range beyond comedic roles.

Her portrayal of Manson Family member Susan “Sadie” Atkins in Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2019) brought her widespread recognition. This role demonstrated her ability to inhabit complex, often unsettling characters with chilling authenticity.

In 2022, she further cemented her place in the industry with her role as Amber Freeman in Scream. Her performance was lauded by critics, with Katie Rife of The A.V. Club highlighting her as a standout.

‘Anora’: The acclaim before the awards

Before her Oscar and BAFTA wins for Best Actress, Mikey Madison gave a tour de force performance in Sean Baker’s Anora (2024). Baker, impressed by her work in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood and Scream, crafted the titular role of a stripper and sex worker specifically for her. Madison’s dedication to the role, including learning Russian and performing her own stunts, paid off. The film’s premiere at Cannes, where it won the Palme d’Or, was met with critical acclaim, with praise directed squarely at Madison’s compelling portrayal.

Madison maintains a private life, residing in her native Los Angeles. She is known to be vegan and is of Jewish heritage. Notably, she avoids social media, citing a desire for authenticity and a need to protect her mental well-being. She prioritizes staying “ignorant” to online opinions, a testament to her grounded nature in an often overwhelming industry.