Demi Moore was widely expected to win Best Actress at the 2025 Academy Awards for The Substance. However, Mikey Madison took home the Oscar for Anora.
Madison, among the youngest Best Actress winners, earned acclaim for her portrayal of a sex worker. In her emotional acceptance speech, she honored the sex worker community and pledged ongoing support.
Meanwhile, cameras captured Demi Moore’s reaction, showing initial disappointment before she composed herself and applauded Madison. Moore had received widespread recognition throughout the awards season, including at the Golden Globes.
Lip Reader Analyzes Demi Moore’s Reaction
Lip reader Nicola Hickling told Daily Mail that Demi Moore appeared to say “nice” upon hearing the winner’s name but did not smile. Hickling noted Moore’s slight nod, suggesting an attempt to remain composed.
Demi Moore had been nominated alongside Cynthia Erivo, Mikey Madison, Fernanda Torres, and Karla Sofia Gascon in the Best Actress category.
Demi Moore’s Oscars Loss Sparks Online Reactions
While many celebrated Madison’s victory, Demi Moore’s fans expressed disappointment on social media. The reaction quickly went viral, with memes and debates flooding platforms like X.
“My heart broke as much as Demi Moore’s when she didn’t hear her name. This was her year,” a fan commented.
“Demi Moore losing to Mikey Madison is basically the plot of The Substance,” ESPN staff writer Paolo Uggetti posted. The tweet amassed 126,000 likes and 1.9 million views.
Another supporter reacted, “Demi Moore lost? I’m done with the Academy.”
A different user wrote, “They hyped Demi Moore all season just for her to lose at the finish line 💀 I’d throw a tantrum.”
Despite the upset, Demi Moore’s acclaimed performance in The Substance remains a standout of the year.