Demi Moore’s response to losing the Best Actress award at the 2025 Academy Awards to Mikey Madison has been a standout moment of the Oscars season. Moore, who was nominated for her performance in The Substance, a film that had earned her critical praise and widespread recognition throughout the awards circuit, surprised many with her calm and gracious demeanor. Despite the anticipation that she would win after her triumphs at the Golden Globes, Critics’ Choice Awards, and SAG Awards, Moore accepted the outcome with remarkable composure, reflecting a deep sense of inner peace and gratitude.
In her conversation with Time Magazine, Moore openly discussed the moment when she realized that the award was likely not going to her. “I leaned over and whispered to my manager, ‘I think it’s going to Mikey,’” she recalled, revealing that she had an inexplicable feeling that Madison was going to take home the Oscar. “I don’t know why I knew, but I did.” Her intuition turned out to be accurate, as Mikey Madison was indeed announced as the winner. However, what stood out was Moore’s reaction—she wasn’t overcome with disappointment or frustration. Instead, she felt centered and grounded in the face of the loss. "I was so centred and calm. I didn’t feel gutted. I didn’t feel any of those kinds of things. I just trusted, and am in trust of, whatever is going to unfold," she explained, further demonstrating her ability to stay present and positive in the moment.
For many, the Academy Awards are the pinnacle of a career, and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with it can be intense. Yet Moore's reaction was one of grace and maturity. She seemed to view the night as part of a much larger journey, recognizing that the journey itself is as significant as any accolade. Her calm acceptance reflects the emotional maturity she has developed over the years, allowing her to remain grounded amidst the glittering, high-stakes world of Hollywood awards shows.
After the ceremony, Demi Moore shared her reflections with her followers on Instagram, offering an extended caption that underscored her deep sense of gratitude. “As this awards season comes to a close, I’m so overwhelmed with gratitude for this journey. It’s been the ride of a lifetime, and we’re just getting started!” Moore wrote, expressing her thankfulness for the experience and the opportunities it has brought. Her message was not only about celebrating the recognition but also about appreciating the entire process, including the people she had worked with and the fans who had supported her along the way.
She went on to thank her team and collaborators, specifically mentioning the cast and crew of The Substance. “Thank you to the cast, crew, and fans of @trythesubstance — @isimostar and @coralie_fargeat it’s been such an honor to work alongside you, learn from you, and celebrate this film with you.” Moore also made sure to congratulate Mikey Madison, adding, “And a huge congratulations to #MikeyMadison — can’t wait to see what you do next (sic).” Her words not only acknowledged the success of her fellow nominee but also reflected her support for the larger community of actors and filmmakers she is a part of.
The film The Substance itself had been a standout performance for Moore, with many critics calling it one of the best portrayals of her career. In the film, Moore played a complex and troubled character navigating a tumultuous emotional journey, a role that showcased her ability to embody deeply layered characters. Her portrayal of a woman grappling with complex psychological and emotional struggles was praised for its depth and nuance, and many felt she was a sure bet for the Academy Award. Her performance resonated with audiences, earning her accolades and setting high expectations for the Oscars.
Despite her early victories in other award circuits, Moore’s gracious response to the Oscars outcome highlighted her focus on the bigger picture of her career. She made it clear that the most important thing was the work she was creating and the joy she found in collaborating with talented individuals. “It’s about being healthy—eating right, exercising, and doing your best to feel good,” she remarked earlier in the year, emphasizing a holistic approach to her life and career. For Moore, it seems that the recognition of her talent is a part of a larger mission, one that extends beyond the awards and trophies.
The graciousness with which Moore accepted her loss to Mikey Madison at the 97th Academy Awards serves as an example of how she continues to grow both as an actress and as an individual. She has already achieved an incredible level of success and acclaim in Hollywood, and her career continues to evolve in exciting ways. In many ways, her reaction to this loss was not only a testament to her inner strength but also a reflection of her ongoing commitment to her craft and the future possibilities that lie ahead.
For Moore, this awards season will likely be remembered not just for the nominations and the anticipation of an Oscar win, but for the graceful and grounded way in which she navigated the competitive world of Hollywood. As she continues to take on complex and challenging roles, it’s clear that her journey in the entertainment industry is far from over. Whether or not she wins more accolades in the future, Demi Moore has shown that her true success lies in the work itself, the joy of creating art, and the gratitude she carries with her every step of the way.
