Demi Moore appeared visibly disappointed after missing out on the Best Actress award at the 97th Academy Awards—at least, according to a body language expert.
The highly anticipated Oscars took place on March 2 in Los Angeles, where first-time nominee Mikey Madison claimed one of the night’s most prestigious honors for her performance in Sean Baker’s Anora.
The 25-year-old triumphed over an impressive lineup, which included Wicked’s Cynthia Erivo, Brazilian powerhouse Fernanda Torres, Karla Sofía Gascón, and Demi Moore.
For Moore, 62, the loss came as a shock. After dominating awards season with a Golden Globe, Critics’ Choice Award, and SAG trophy for her role in Coralie Fargeat’s The Substance, many believed the Oscar was hers to lose.
Expert: ‘Demi Was Gutted’ Over the Loss
According to body language expert Darren Stanton, Moore struggled to hide her disappointment when Madison was announced as the winner.
“Demi was absolutely gutted to not win this Oscar,” Stanton said, speaking on behalf of Betfair Casino.
“We saw her masking her smiles when Mikey was announced as the winner. After her success this season, I think she felt this was her time at the Oscars. She looked shocked and in disbelief.”
Stanton also noted specific facial expressions that suggested disappointment:
“Her mouth was wide open, and her eyes were locked onto the stage, showing she just couldn’t believe what was happening. Her smiles came across as disingenuous.”
Fans React to the Shocking Outcome
Social media users quickly weighed in on the Moore vs. Madison debate, with many drawing parallels between real life and Moore’s own movie, The Substance.
- “Demi Moore losing to Mikey Madison is basically the plot of The Substance.”
- “Wow, Demi Moore getting passed up for a younger, brighter star—someone should make a movie about this.”
- “I’m happy about Mikey Madison’s win. Eliminate career sympathy tours in these Oscar races.”
- “On the bright side, Demi won so many awards this season. She’s introduced to a younger audience now, and I hope she keeps getting amazing opportunities!”
What’s Next for Demi Moore?
Despite the Oscar snub, Moore’s career momentum remains strong.
Following her acclaimed role in The Substance—which can now be streamed on MUBI—she is set to star in Boots Riley’s upcoming sci-fi comedy I Love Boosters alongside Keke Palmer, LaKeith Stanfield, and Will Poulter.
Meanwhile, Mikey Madison’s Oscar-winning film Anora will be available to stream on Hulu in the U.S. starting March 17.
