The Oscars is an event where stars become legends, and their achievements are forever etched into Hollywood history. Among the highest prestige is the Best Actress award, and many young women have defied expectations over the years. Jennifer Lawrence is one of them, and recently, Mikey Madison has joined the ranks.
But despite her triumph, Madison couldn’t surpass Lawrence’s record. Let’s dive into what exactly the latter’s extraordinary accomplishment is and why these two remarkable actresses won an Academy Award.
Mikey Madison’s acclaimed performance in Anora
Mikey Madison portrays the titular character in Anora, a role that earned her an Oscar at the age of 25. The film follows Anora’s journey, a stripper who impulsively marries the son of a Russian oligarch. In her acceptance speech, the actress proved that she wasn’t just worthy of the honour for her brilliant performance but also because she used her platform to uplift an often neglected community.
I just want to recognize and honor the s*x worker community. Yes. I will continue to support and be an ally. All of the incredible people, the women that I’ve had the privilege of meeting from that community, have been one of the highlights of this incredible experience.
Madison took the approach of a perfectionist while playing Anora, as she learned Russian, intricate dance routines, and skills like pole dancing (via Dazed). She brought rawness, vulnerability, and strength to the character, which couldn’t be overlooked.
Jennifer Lawrence’s Oscar triumph for Silver Linings Playbook
Jennifer Lawrence won an Oscar in 2013 for Silver Linings Playbook when she was just 22. It was one of the most iconic moments in Academy Awards history as she became the second youngest Best Actress winner, and she still holds that record. In the movie, Lawrence essayed the character of Tiffany, a young widow facing mental health challenges.
Youngest Best Actress winners in #Oscars history:
#1. Marlee Matlin (21) — Children of a Lesser God
#2. Jennifer Lawrence (22) — Silver Linings Playbook
#3. Mikey Madison (25) — Anora
#4. Emma Stone (28) — La La Land pic.twitter.com/p2qZMy2dHC— Pop Base (@PopBase) March 3, 2025
She goes on to form an unexpected bond with a man who struggles with bipolar disorder. The actress was praised to no end for the emotional depth and authenticity she brought to the role, and she made Tiffany feel both relatable and compelling.
Silver Linings Playbook received eight Oscar nominations, but the actress’ win was the sole victory for the film that night. The Mikey Madison starrer went on to win Best Director and Best Picture, but Jennifer Lawrence’s record as the second-youngest Best Actress winner remains untouched.
You can watch Silver Linings Playbook on Netflix.
