Amy Madigan Wins Best Supporting Actress Oscar for ‘Weapons’ After 40-Year Wait

Amy Madigan has won the Best Supporting Actress Oscar at the 98th Academy Awards for her performance as Aunt Gladys in Zach Cregger’s supernatural horror film, Weapons. The win marks a historic moment, as it is the longest gap between Oscar nominations for any actor – 40 years after her first nomination.

A Four-Decade Journey to Oscar Gold

Madigan was previously nominated for Best Actress in 1986 for her role in Twice in a Lifetime. Her victory on March 15, 2026, sets a recent record for the longest wait between nominations and a win, according to The Guardian.

Competition and Recognition

Madigan defeated a strong field of nominees, including Elle Fanning for Sentimental Value, Wunmi Mosaku for Sinners and Teyana Taylor for One Battle After Another. She had also received a Best Supporting Actress nomination from the Golden Globes and won the Actor award earlier in the month, signaling her momentum during awards season. The Guardian reports that Mosaku was considered a particularly strong competitor.

Aunt Gladys and Internet Fame

Madigan’s portrayal of the malevolent Aunt Gladys in Weapons resonated with audiences and became a popular internet meme, even referenced by Oscars host Conan O’Brien during the opening skit. Entertainment Weekly highlighted the character’s impact.

Emotional Acceptance Speech

In her acceptance speech, Madigan humorously acknowledged the long wait, stating, “What’s different is I got this little gold guy.” She also expressed gratitude to her fellow nominees and thanked her husband and daughter for their support. The Guardian detailed her lighthearted and emotional remarks.

About ‘Weapons’

Weapons, written and directed by Zach Cregger, centers around the mysterious disappearance of children in a small American town. The film follows the investigation into the event and the community’s attempt to uncover the truth behind the strange occurrences.