At the 2025 BAFTA Film Awards, Mikey Madison took home the Best Leading Actress prize for her performance in Anora, a film that has captivated audiences with its raw and compelling storytelling.
The actress delivered a heartfelt speech upon receiving her award, using the moment to shed light on an often-overlooked community.
“I do want to just take a moment to recognise the sex worker community. I just want to say that I see you. You deserve respect and human decency. I will always be a friend and ally,” Madison declared as she held the prestigious BAFTA mask trophy.
Her words were met with applause from the audience, highlighting the significance of her message.
In Anora, Madison portrays a young sex worker from Brooklyn who impulsively marries the son of a Russian oligarch. The film, produced by Neon, explores themes of power, survival, and agency, placing Madison in a role that required emotional depth and nuance. Her performance was widely praised, and she triumphed over notable contenders, including Demi Moore, Cynthia Erivo, and Saoirse Ronan.
Also Read: BAFTA 2025: Complete List of Winners
Beyond her recognition of the sex worker community, Madison took a moment to express gratitude toward those who supported her journey in the industry. She gave a heartfelt tribute to her mother, whom she called her “favourite screen partner,” acknowledging the role she played in helping her prepare for auditions and navigate the challenges of Hollywood.
“To my fellow nominees, I’m just so in awe of all of you. You just gave beautiful performances. And really, the highlight of all of this has just been getting to know all of you,” Madison said, extending her appreciation to the other talented actresses in her category.
Her win adds to the success of Anora, which had six other nominations at the BAFTAs and secured an additional award for Best Casting. The ceremony, held at London’s Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, marked another year of excellence in film, with David Tennant returning as the host for the second consecutive year.
Madison’s speech has already sparked discussions on social media, with many applauding her decision to use the platform to advocate for dignity and respect for sex workers. Representation in film and media remains a crucial issue, and Madison’s words highlight the importance of acknowledging marginalized communities.
With Anora gaining critical acclaim and Madison solidifying her position as one of Hollywood’s most promising talents, her advocacy is likely to resonate far beyond the awards stage. Her BAFTA win is not just a personal achievement—it’s a statement on the power of storytelling and the responsibility of artists to amplify voices that are often unheard.
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