HOLLYWOOD, United States Veteran American Actress Amy Madigan Won

by HEDNEWS on March 16, 2026

HOLLYWOOD, United States Veteran American actress Amy Madigan won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress at the 98th Academy Awards, defeating strong competition including Nigerian‑British nominee Wunmi Mosaku. The ceremony took place on Sunday, March 15, 2026, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, hosted by television presenter Conan O’Brien.

Madigan received the award for her role as Gladys in the supernatural horror film Weapons, marking a major achievement late in her career. The veteran actress’s win came nearly 40 years after her first Oscar nomination, setting a record for the longest gap between nominations and an eventual win in the category

Madigan’s award was one of several shared among dramatic and critically acclaimed films at the awards show. One Battle After Another dominated the evening with multiple wins including Best Picture, Best Director and Best Supporting Actor, while Jessie Buckley took home Best Actress and Michael B. Jordan won Best Actor for his role in Sinners. Conan O’Brien’s return as host added a lively and humorous tone to the star‑studded event.

The Best Supporting Actress category this year featured a competitive field of nominees:

Amy Madigan (Weapons) – WINNER
Wunmi Mosaku (Sinners)
Elle Fanning (Sentimental Value)
Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas (Sentimental Value)
Teyana Taylor (One Battle After Another)

Madigan, aged 75, appeared visibly moved when her name was announced, delivering a heartfelt acceptance speech that honoured her co‑nominees, the filmmakers and her personal support network, particularly her family. Her portrayal of Gladys a memorable and complex supporting character stood out in a year rich with acclaimed performances. British‑Nigerian actress Wunmi Mosaku, who received widespread praise for her role as Annie in the critically lauded film Sinners, was one of the leading contenders in the category and had secured prior accolades during the awards season. Despite her loss at the Oscars, Mosaku’s nomination was celebrated as a significant milestone in her career and a strong representation of diverse talent in global cinema. The film Sinners, which featured Mosaku, also garnered nominations and awards in several other categories throughout the season, reflecting its broad industry recognition The 98th Academy Awards were notable not just for the star power on stage, but also for the diversity of storytelling recognised across genres from horror and drama to historical epics and for the presence of international talent in key categories. The ceremony underscored ongoing conversations about representation in Hollywood and the global reach of contemporary filmmaking.

Madigan’s win particularly in a category with highly lauded performances highlights the Academy’s recognition of veteran actors and genre‑defying roles, while Mosaku’s nomination continues to shine a spotlight on rising and versatile talents from diverse backgrounds.

The Best Supporting Actress award is one of the primary acting accolades at the Academy Awards, given annually by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
Amy Madigan now holds the 2026 title for her performance in Weapons, triumphing over notable peers including Wunmi Mosaku.