Amy Madigan Wins First Oscar at Age 75 for Role in "Weapons"

Amy Madigan won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress at the 98th Academy Awards held on March 15, 2026, for her role as Aunt Gladys in the horror film "Weapons." This victory marks a significant milestone in Madigan's career, as it comes 40 years after her first nomination for the same category for her performance in "Twice in a Lifetime" in 1985. With this win, she set a record for the longest gap between nominations and victories for any actress in Oscar history.

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In "Weapons," directed by Zach Cregger, Madigan portrays Aunt Gladys, a witch whose character becomes central to the film's plot involving the mysterious disappearance of children. Her performance has been widely praised, contributing to the film's success, which grossed $270 million globally on a budget of under $40 million. Madigan's portrayal of Gladys, characterized by her eccentric makeup and flamboyant style, resonated with audiences, leading to a cultural phenomenon that included memes and Halloween costumes inspired by her character.

Hollywood Reporter

During her acceptance speech, Madigan expressed her surprise and gratitude, stating, "This is great!" She acknowledged the stiff competition she faced, thanking her fellow nominees: Elle Fanning, Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas, Wunmi Mosaku, and Teyana Taylor. Madigan also highlighted the support she received from her family, particularly her husband, Ed Harris, and their daughter, Lily. "The most important is my beloved Ed, who's been with me forever, and that's a long ass time. None of this would mean anything if he wasn't by my side," she remarked.

People Magazine

Madigan's career spans several decades, with notable roles in films such as "Field of Dreams" and "Uncle Buck." Her first Oscar nomination in 1985 was for her role in "Twice in a Lifetime," where she starred alongside Gene Hackman and Ann-Margret. Despite her long career, opportunities for older actresses have been limited, making her recent success particularly significant. Madigan has emphasized the importance of perseverance in the arts, stating, "People always say, 'If you have a dream, follow it,' but those are true things when actors and writers and directors get up there and say that."

WRAL

While Madigan's win has been celebrated, some critics have pointed out the Academy's historical reluctance to honor horror films. Her victory is seen as a breakthrough for the genre, which has often been overlooked during awards season. Madigan's win is also notable as it represents a shift in the Academy's recognition of diverse storytelling, particularly in horror, which has gained traction in recent years.

Amy Madigan Breaks 40-Year Record, Wins Oscar For Best Supporting Actress In Weapons

Following her Oscar win, there is speculation about a potential prequel centered on Aunt Gladys, as hinted by director Zach Cregger. Madigan expressed her enthusiasm for revisiting the character, stating, "It would be such a blast, and it would be really great if we could revisit her in some way."

Hollywood Reporter

Madigan's historic win not only celebrates her individual achievements but also highlights the evolving landscape of Hollywood, where diverse narratives and performances are increasingly recognized and celebrated.

Express Tribune