Amy Madigan has won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Aunt Gladys in the film Weapons, making history at the Dolby Theatre on March 15, 2026. At 75 years old, she became the second-oldest winner ever in this category.
Madigan’s victory also set a record for the longest gap between an actress’s first nomination and her first win, spanning 40 years and one month. Her initial Oscar nomination came in 1985 for her performance in Twice in a Lifetime.
In Weapons, Madigan’s character Aunt Gladys is a witch who casts a spell to stay alive amid illness. The character has become a cultural sensation, noted for her sinister secret, which surprised Madigan herself. “Gladys has surprised me. She’s getting a lot of love back. I didn’t know y’all want to hang out with her,” she remarked during her acceptance speech.
Madigan triumphed over notable nominees including Elle Fanning, Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas, Wunmi Mosaku, and Teyana Taylor. Her win marks a significant milestone as it is the first Oscar for a supporting actress in a horror film since Ruth Gordon’s win in 1969.
During her acceptance speech, Madigan expressed gratitude towards director Zach Cregger and her husband, Ed Harris, stating, “This is great!” She also humorously questioned, “Did you think Aunt Gladys would end up here at the Oscars?”
Madigan’s illustrious career includes memorable roles in films such as Uncle Buck, Field of Dreams, and Gone Baby Gone. A graduate of Marquette University, she has remained a prominent figure in the film industry since her debut.
As the film community celebrates her achievement, there is speculation about the possibility of an Aunt Gladys prequel being developed. Details remain unconfirmed.