The Academy Award for Best Actress in 2025 went to Mikaela Madison Rosberg, professionally known as Mikey Madison, for her lead role in Sean Baker’s film Anora. This recognition arrived following a career that began with short films in 2013, shifting the trajectory of a performer previously known for television and supporting roles in major cinematic productions.
Early Development and Interests
Born March 25, 1999, in Los Angeles to Michael and Tracy Rosberg, Madison grew up in the San Fernando Valley. She was the fourth of five children raised in a secular Jewish household. Her early childhood involved training as a competitive horseback rider until she turned 14 and transitioned to acting. Following the seventh grade, she transitioned to homeschooling. Her upbringing included viewing films by directors such as Martin Scorsese, Sofia Coppola, Woody Allen, and Quentin Tarantino.
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Madison debuted in 2013 through the short films Retirement and Pani's Box, followed by Bound for Greatness in 2014. Her first feature, Liza, Liza, Skies Are Grey, was filmed in 2014 but saw release in 2017. Between 2016 and 2022, she portrayed Max Fox in the FX series Better Things. She expanded her film portfolio with 2018 appearances in Monster and Nostalgia, followed by a role as Susan Atkins in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood in 2019 and a character in the 2022 film Scream.
Breakthrough and Recent Projects
Sean Baker cast Madison in Anora after reviewing her work in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood and Scream. She prepared for the title role by learning Russian, practicing pole dancing, and performing her own stunts, including fight scenes. The performance earned her the 2025 Academy Award and the BAFTA Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role. Her subsequent professional trajectory included hosting Saturday Night Live in March 2025 and accepting a role as Frances Haugen in The Social Reckoning, scheduled for release in October 2026.
Fast facts
- Born: March 25, 1999, Los Angeles
- Debut Year: 2013
- Television Role: Max Fox, Better Things
- Film Breakthrough: Anora (2024)
- Academy Award: Best Actress (2025)
- BAFTA Award: Best Actress in a Leading Role (2025)
- Independent Spirit Award: Best Lead Performance (2024)
- Residence: Los Angeles
Questions readers ask
Why did Madison decline the role in Star Wars: Starfighter?
She declined the opportunity in April 2025 due to a salary dispute.
Does Madison use social media?
No, she avoids social media because she finds it unnatural and prioritizes her mental health by avoiding online commentary.
Achievements
- Academy Award for Best Actress — 2025
- Worked as television actor, film actor and actor
