Demi Moore Loses to 'Anora' Actress Mikey Madison in the Race for 'Best Lead Actress' at 2025 Oscars – Video

A night of celebration quickly turned into a storm of controversy at the 2025 Oscars after the Best Lead Actress award was announced. Fans expected one outcome—but the Academy had other plans.

The 2025 Academy Awards saw fierce competition in the Best Lead Actress category, with nominees including Demi Moore, Cynthia Erivo, Mikey Madison, Fernanda Torres, and Karla Sofía Gascón.

In the end, the Oscar went to Madison for her performance in "Anora," a romantic comedy. However, the result did not sit well with many viewers. Social media erupted with reactions, with fans arguing that Moore, who starred in "The Substance," was more deserving of the award.

On X, users called Madison's win a "slap in the face for Demi Moore." One person wrote, "Demi's reaction was so painful to watch, you can see she was completely shocked, that was her award, it was her time, and the Academy took it away from her. Gosh, I am so furious." Another added, "Demi wasn't pleased."

Others focused on Moore's visible reaction during the announcement. One user simply wrote, "Demi Moore's reaction," accompanied by four crying emojis. Another wrote, “Wow, Demi was really expecting it [sic]."

Some found the moment heartbreaking, with one person stating, "Breaks my heart looking at Demi. She wqs [sic] so nervous, breathing heavy, thinking this was her moment—and was robbed."

Despite the outrage, some balanced their disappointment with praise for Madison. "Anyway, I'm happy for Mikey Madison, she was great, but also sad for Demi Moore. You could see on her face that she was really disappointed," one user shared.

Another expressed a similar sentiment, "Congratulations to all the winners at the Oscars! Ms. Demi Moore, heart-wrenching to see you not winning, but more projects to come for you, and hopefully, you'll win one someday!"

Horror fans also voiced frustration, pointing out that the genre is often overlooked at major awards shows. "My heart broke as much as Demi Moore's did when she didn't hear her name. This was her year for sure. Horror always getting unfairly treated!" one user lamented.

As the conversation continues online, Madison's victory remains a defining moment in her career, while Moore's supporters continue to argue that "The Substance" star was robbed of what they believe was rightfully hers. Adding fuel to the debate, lip reader Nicola Hickling weighed in on Moore's reaction as Madison's name was announced.

Speaking to DailyMail, Hickling analyzed the brief moment and claimed that Moore muttered the word "nice" but did so without a smile. "Her body is almost nodding like she had to force herself to say it," Hickling observed, suggesting the actress was masking disappointment.

Madison's portrayal of Ani’s emotional rollercoaster in "Anora" won over audiences. In the romantic comedy, she plays Ani, a Brooklyn escort who impulsively marries the son of a Russian oligarch.

What starts as a whirlwind romance quickly turns into chaos when his powerful parents arrive from Russia, determined to annul their marriage.

But Moore was no underdog in this race. Her haunting performance in "The Substance" had already earned her industry-wide recognition. As Elisabeth Sparkle, a fading celebrity desperate to reclaim her youth, Moore delivered a chilling and transformative performance.

The film, a gripping blend of horror and sci-fi, showcased her ability to push boundaries. While the Oscar slipped through her fingers, she had already won a Golden Globe for Best Performance by a Female Actor in a Motion Picture and a SAG Award for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role.

Though the Academy may have ruled in Madison's favor, Moore's fans aren't giving up hope. If anything, they see this as just another chapter in her long and storied career—one that, in their eyes, still deserves an Oscar-worthy ending.

Moore's reaction to Madison's win wasn't the only highlight of the evening, many also focused on her dazzling fashion at the event. The actress arrived at the 97th Academy Awards in a shimmering ensemble. While many admired her elegance, others speculated that her appearance had changed, sparking debate on social media.

The 62-year-old actress graced the red carpet in a custom Armani Privé gown by Giorgio Armani, its intricate embellishments and sculpted silhouette enhancing her striking presence.

The silver design featured a plunging neckline and delicate straps. To complete the look, she adorned herself with dazzling Chopard jewelry and slipped into sleek Christian Louboutin heels.

Makeup artist Sofia Schwarzkopf-Tilbury gave her a flawless complexion and radiant glow, while Brad Goreski styled her long, dark hair into soft, elegant waves.

More photographs captured Moore from multiple angles—one close-up showcasing her smooth complexion and smile, another capturing her full-body pose as she waved, and a third depicting her inside the venue.

However, reactions online were divided. "That doesn't even look like her face anymore. Am I the only one that sees that?" one user commented. Another wrote, "Her cheeks and smile look odd to me." A third briefly remarked, "Implants."

One critic questioned why people alter their faces instead of embracing natural aging. Another viewer pointed out facial proportions, noting that something about the balance of her features seemed off.

Meanwhile, fans defended her. A different user complimented her look, calling her gown "classy" and remarking on how youthful she appeared. Someone else echoed the same sentiment, "Demi is beautiful!!! Classy always!!! ❤️"

Despite the online debate, Moore appeared to enjoy the occasion, smiling for the cameras and engaging with fellow attendees throughout the night.

As a Best Actress nominee for "The Substance," Moore joined a competitive lineup alongside Cynthia Erivo for "Wicked," Karla Sofía Gascón for "Emilia Pérez," and Fernanda Torres for "I'm Still Here."

Although Mikey Madison ultimately won the award for her performance in "Anora," Moore remained a standout presence, celebrating the night with grace.