March 3, Oscars 2025: Hollywood’s biggest night turned into a whirlwind of unexpected triumphs at the 97th Academy Awards, where the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles witnessed history-making moments, shocking upsets, and groundbreaking wins that kept audiences on the edge of their seats.
As the night kicked off, all eyes were on the record-breaking nominations for Emilia Pérez (13 nominations) and Wicked (10 nominations), yet it was Anora, a film that quietly rose to dominate the evening, that stole the spotlight. Anora triumphed with five at the 97th Academy Awards, including the coveted Best Picture award, setting the tone for a night full of surprises.
The evening’s most jaw-dropping moment came when 25-year-old Mickey Madison (known for her role as Zen Zee) claimed the Best Actress at the 97th Academy Awards for her gripping portrayal in Anora. Her unexpected win places her among the youngest stars ever to take home the prestigious award. Madison triumphed over formidable contenders, including heavy favorite Demi Moore from The Substance, Cynthia Erivo from Wicked, and Karla Sofía Gascón from Emilia Pérez.
In a stirring moment, Adrien Brody secured his second Best Actor at the 97th Academy Awardsfor his powerful portrayal in The Brutalist. Brody’s win solidifies his Hollywood comeback, bringing him back to the top ranks of acting talent.
Meanwhile, Kieran Culkin grabbed the Best Supporting Actor trophy for his role in A Real Pain, and Zoe Saldaña made history as the first American of Dominican descent to win the Best Supporting Actress award for her role in Emilia Pérez. In the costume design category, Paul Tazewell made history as the first Black man to win the 97th Academy Awards for his stunning work on Wicked.
Among the other notable winners were the Dutch-language film I’m Not a Robot, which took home Best Live Action Short, and Flow, which triumphed as Best Animated Feature. In the Shadow of the Cypress was awarded Best Animated Short, while El Mal from Emilia Pérez won Best Original Song.
The surprises didn’t stop there. In the Best Director category, Sean Baker took home the 97th Academy Awards for his work on Anora, while Jacques Audiard (for Emilia Pérez) and Brady Corbet (for The Brutalist) were also in the running.
Oscars 2025: Striking Surprises and Historic Wins at the 97th Academy Awards
Best Picture
Anora – WINNER
Best Director
Sean Baker – WINNER (Anora)
Best Actor in a Lead Role
Adrien Brody – WINNER (The Brutalist)
Best Actress in a Lead Role
Mickey Madison – WINNER (Anora)
Best Supporting Actor
Kieran Culkin – WINNER (A Real Pain)
Best Supporting Actress
Zoe Saldaña – WINNER (Emilia Pérez)
Best Animated Feature
Flow – WINNER
Best Animated Short
In the Shadow of the Cypress – WINNER
Best Live Action Short
I’m Not a Robot – WINNER
The 97th Academy Awards were filled with emotional speeches, unforgettable performances, and a host of surprises that will be remembered for years to come. From Mickey Madison’s shocking win to the groundbreaking triumphs of Anora and Wicked, this year’s Oscars proved that anything can happen in Hollywood.
Check out the complete list of winners at the Oscars 2025
