Mikey Madison clinched yet another triumph for her portrayal of Anora. On a glistening Saturday, the 25-year-old actress was honored with the Best Lead Performance award at the Independent Spirit Awards, a triumph that shimmered with cinematic brilliance. While addressing the gathered throng, she showered praise upon the entire ensemble and her director, Sean Baker.
"I wish to express my deepest gratitude to Sean Baker. It all began with you. You are a director of unparalleled genius, a cherished friend, and an extraordinary chihuahua parent," she exclaimed, her voice resonating with heartfelt emotion. "I am endlessly thankful for your presence in my life."
Madison faced formidable competition from Amy Adams (Nightbitch), Ryan Destiny (The Fire Inside), Colman Domingo (Sing Sing), Keith Kupferer (Ghostlight), Demi Moore (The Substance), Hunter Schafer (Cuckoo), Justice Smith (I Saw the TV Glow), June Squibb (Thelma), and Sebastian Stan (The Apprentice). Standing alongside such esteemed talents, she professed, "I am honored to have been nominated in such esteemed company." Just a week prior, Madison had also secured the BAFTA for Best Leading Actress.
She also took a moment to acknowledge Samantha Quan, Baker's wife and the producer of the film, lauding her as "the most incredible, breathtaking person on earth."
Baker has been openly vocal about tailoring the role of Anora (or Ani) — a sex worker entangled in a love affair with the son of a Russian oligarch — specifically for Madison, after being captivated by her performances in Quentin Tarantino's Once Upon a Time in Hollywood and Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett's Scream.
Anora emerged victorious at the Spirit Awards, securing accolades for Best Feature and Best Director for Baker, who delivered a soulful speech championing the indie film industry. Madison now finds herself nominated for the Best Actress Oscar, with the ceremony set to take place on March 2.
Discover the complete list of winners from the 40th annual Spirit Awards here, and revel in the star-studded red carpet moments captured during the event.
