Mikey Madison secured her first Oscar for her lead role in Sean Baker's "Anora", a surprise win for the breakout star in her first Academy Award nomination.

In the film, Madison portrays the titular character, a Brooklyn exotic dancer who impulsively marries the spoiled son of a Russian oligarch, setting off a whirlwind of chaos as he flees his powerful parents.

"This feels very surreal," she said, expressing her nervousness and mentioning that she would be reading from a piece of paper. She began by thanking everyone involved with the film and her family.

Similar to director Sean Baker's earlier speeches, she emphasised her desire to "recognise and honor the sex worker community," stating, "I will continue to support and be an ally," and noted that meeting them had been "the highlight of this experience."

Madison, who gained recognition on TV as the eldest daughter in Hulu's "Better Things", has also appeared in "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood" and the 2022 "Scream" sequel.

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Demi Moore was widely expected to win, having dominated the awards season with victories at the Golden Globes, Critics Choice, and SAG Awards, only losing the BAFTA to Madison.