Breakthrough Role in ‘Anora’

Mikey Madison has kicked off 2025 on a high note with her remarkable achievements, including winning her first Oscar for her performance in the film Anora. Portraying the character Ani, also known as Anora, she plays an erotic dancer navigating the complexities of life and love within a challenging environment.

Pole Dancing Training

To authentically embody her character, Madison undertook extensive pole dancing training. She shared her insights on this experience during her appearance on The Graham Norton Show. “The first time I went to the club, I watched these women move seamlessly, thinking, ‘I can do that,'” she revealed. However, her initial enthusiasm met with a stark reality as she discovered the physical challenges involved. Determined, Madison invested five months of rigorous practice, even purchasing her own pole for training.

When she learned that filming would occur in a lap dancing club, Madison felt a mix of excitement and anxiety. “I convinced [director Sean Baker] to allow me to perform one scene that showcased my training,” she explained, humorously noting that all her hard work culminated in just a brief moment on screen.

Hosting Saturday Night Live

In addition to her Oscar success, Madison made her debut as a host on Saturday Night Live. During her opening monologue, she addressed the speculation regarding her pole dancing skills, humorously asserting, “I performed all my own stunts for the film, including all the dancing.” This statement set the stage for a comedic segment, where she playfully claimed to perform her own dance, only for the audience to discover it was a different performer executing the pole tricks.

Recognition and Future Endeavors

Following her Oscar win, Madison expressed her admiration for fellow nominee Demi Moore, stating, “She’s one of the sweetest, kindest women I’ve ever met.” Their mutual respect highlights the camaraderie often found within the acting community. Madison’s journey in the industry has only just begun, and fans eagerly await her upcoming projects as well as the new characters she will bring to life.