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The 2025 awards season proved that in Hollywood, women have moved beyond being contenders—they’re the stars, with or without the golden statuette
The Oscars have long been a celebration of cinematic excellence, and this year, women were undoubtedly the stars of the show. This momentum extended beyond the ceremony, as 2025 saw powerful performances, groundbreaking achievements, and the ongoing rise of women in Hollywood. From unforgettable wins to performances that should have been recognized, this year was a testament to the undeniable talent and resilience of women in film. While not every woman walked away with the golden statuette, one thing is clear: women are not just part of Hollywood’s narrative—they are driving it forward, shaping the industry’s future with every performance, every story, and every breakthrough. This year, the Oscars, and the awards season in whole, reminded us that women are not only deserving of applause but also of more opportunities, more recognition, and more chances to shine.
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Women Win: Mikey Madison Steals the Spotlight
One of the most memorable moments of the evening was Mikey Madison’s win for Anora, where she became the second youngest actress in history to win an Oscar at just 25. Her win marked a historic moment for women in their twenties who are now proving their ability to hold their own in an arena often dominated by older actresses. Madison’s performance in Anora was a masterclass in nuance, where she brought a fresh energy and emotional depth to the role that captivated both audiences and the Academy. As the third woman in Oscar history to win in her twenties, she is part of a new generation of actresses who are not waiting for permission to be taken seriously—the industry, which has often overlooked young women in favor of more seasoned performers, recognizes the power of fresh talent. Madison’s win isn’t just a personal triumph; it’s a breakthrough for young women in Hollywood who are taking the spotlight and proving they’re more than capable of holding their own.
With her acceptance speech, Madison shared not only her gratitude but also her sense of awe at how far she had come. “I grew up in Los Angeles, but Hollywood always felt so far away from me, so to be here standing in this room today is incredible,” she said, reflecting on the long road to this moment. She also used this moment to honor the community her character, Anora Mikheeva, represents. “I also want to honor and recognize the sex worker community. I will continue to support and be an ally. All of the incredible women I’ve had the privilege of meeting from that community have been a highlight of this incredible experience.” Madison also took this time to recognize her fellow nominees, saying, “I want to recognize the thoughtful, intelligent, beautiful, breathtaking work of my fellow nominees. I’m honored to be recognized alongside all of you.” Her win wasn’t just about a moment in the spotlight; it was a reflection of the strength found in women’s stories, no matter how complicated or unconventional.
Women Lose: Talent Still Overlooked
While Mikey Madison’s win brought hope and excitement, there were other women whose remarkable performances were left unrecognized by the Academy. Ariana Grande, for her role as Glinda in Wicked, gave an emotional and standout performance that showcased her range as an actress. Known primarily for her chart-topping vocals, This was her first-ever Oscar nomination, and while she didn’t walk away with the trophy, the recognition itself was a major milestone in her evolving career, signaling the beginning of what could be a long and successful journey in film.
Similarly, Felicity Jones delivered a powerful performance in The Brutalist, playing Erzsébet, a woman defined by strength, defiance, and unwavering self-belief—but it wasn’t enough to secure the win. Isabella Rossellini, with her unmatched elegance, also gave an outstanding performance in Conclave. Despite her commanding presence on screen, the Oscar eluded her this year. Though these performances were truly exceptional, all three women left the night without a golden statuette in hand, a reminder that talent does not always guarantee recognition. The Academy’s unpredictable preferences can often overlook the most deserving, but these women will undoubtedly continue to captivate and inspire with their craft.
Cynthia Erivo, already an accomplished artist with a Tony, Grammy, and Daytime Emmy under her belt, was in the running for EGOT status this year with her Oscar nomination for Wicked. Her performance as Elphaba showcased her incredible vocal talent and acting range, making her a standout contender. Though she didn’t secure the win this time, her nomination was a significant milestone in her pursuit of the coveted EGOT title. Even without the golden trophy, Erivo’s continued brilliance on stage and screen keeps her firmly in the conversation for future honors, and she remains one of the most versatile and inspiring talents in the industry.
Women Who Deserve Better: The Case of Demi Moore
Demi Moore’s story at the 2025 Oscars is one of both triumph and bittersweet recognition. Nominated for Best Actress for her chilling role in The Substance, Moore was a captivating can’t-look-away force on screen as a woman grappling with terrifying psychological and physical transformations. At 62, her nomination marked a milestone in her career, proving that women can continue to redefine their relevance and power in Hollywood, no matter their age. This moment was made even more remarkable given that earlier in the awards season, Moore won the Golden Globe, Critics’ Choice Award, and SAG Award for the role—her first major acting accolades after 45 years in the industry. “I’m just in shock right now,” she said during her Golden Globes acceptance speech. “I’ve been doing this a long time, over 45 years, and this is the first time I’ve ever won anything as an actor, and I’m just so humbled and so grateful.”
Her wins were a much-needed validation of her incredible body of work and a reminder that some actresses, especially those in their later years, don’t always get the recognition they deserve while they’re still at the peak of their careers. Movingly, Moore also spoke about a dismissive producer who once pigeonholed her as a “popcorn actress” early in her career, a label that she had to fight against to prove her depth and range. Yet, despite her dominance during awards season, Moore’s Oscar nomination for The Substance placed her in fierce competition with Mikey Madison for the top honor. While Madison ultimately took home the Oscar, it was clear that Moore had already emerged victorious in her own right this season, redefining herself as a forever-relevant star with style, and, well, substance, and an enduring presence in Hollywood. Her shocking Oscars loss was just a footnote to a career that continues to prove that age is no barrier to groundbreaking work in film. Moore’s legacy has been solidified—not by a statue, but by the years of artistry, reinvention, and strength that have made her an undeniable icon.
Women, the Stars of Hollywood in 2025
The Oscars made one thing unmistakably clear: women were the stars of Hollywood in 2025. Whether they triumphed in their categories, were overlooked in others, or simply deserved more recognition, their talent and impact on Hollywood are undeniable. The 2025 awards season was a reminder that women are not just here to play supporting roles in the film industry; they are the heartbeat of it. From Mikey Madison’s groundbreaking win to Demi Moore’s long-overdue recognition, this year’s awards season highlighted women pushing past boundaries, defying expectations, and making their mark on the industry. The journey isn’t always easy, and not every woman walked away with a trophy, but their stories are shaping the future of Hollywood. In an industry where female talent is often sidelined or underestimated, these women are showing that they are not just participants—they are the driving force behind Hollywood’s evolution.
Photos and Featured Image: THE ACADEMY (via Instagram and X), LOUIS VUITTON, ARIANA GRANDE, SOFIA TILBURY, DIMITRIS GIANNETOS, THE WALL GROUP (via Instagram) BVLGARI (via Website), NEON (via X)
