Amy Madigan’s Fierce ‘Weapons’ Performance Earns Awards Attention
Published on Feb. 25, 2026
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Amy Madigan, who earned an Oscar nomination for her efficiency as Aunt Gladys within the horror hit “Weapons,” tells PEOPLE concerning the surprising consideration she’s obtained, her previous as a musician, and her marriage to actor Ed Harris. Despite the accolades, together with a Critics Choice Award and a New York Film Critics Circle Award, Madigan says she hasn’t been flooded with new appearing provides, however is grateful to be extra in folks’s conversations. The 75-year-old actress helped form her character’s over-the-top look and is having fun with the present second, though she stays grounded with the assist of her husband Harris.
Why it issues
Madigan’s awards season success is a testomony to her spectacular appearing vary and profession longevity. As a veteran character actress, her acclaimed efficiency in “Weapons” has launched her to a brand new technology of followers and introduced her long-overdue recognition, regardless of a long time of acclaimed work in movie and tv.
The particulars
Madigan, who earned her first Oscar nomination 40 years in the past for 1985’s “Twice in a Lifetime,” delighted viewers and critics along with her twisted tackle the ghoulish Aunt Gladys within the horror hit “Weapons.” Working intently with the movie’s artistic crew, Madigan helped form the character’s memorable look of smeared lipstick, a crimson wig, and outsized glasses. The distinctive look launched numerous Halloween costumes and drag queen impersonations, drawing much more consideration to Madigan’s efficiency.
- Weapons premiered in August 2025.
- Madigan earned an Oscar nomination in February 2026.
The gamers
Amy Madigan
A 75-year-old veteran character actress who earned an Oscar nomination for her efficiency as Aunt Gladys within the horror movie Weapons.
Ed Harris
Madigan’s husband, a four-time Oscar nominee, who she has collaborated with on tasks just like the 2000 Jackson Pollock biopic Pollock.
Zach Cregger
The director of Weapons, who forged Madigan for her capacity to seamlessly transition between taking part in an “effervescent, sparky” aunt and a “cold, reptilian, lethal villain.”
What they’re saying
“All of this was unexpected. That’s a very nice surprise.”
—Amy Madigan, Actress (PEOPLE)
“She can go from being this effervescent, sparky, you know, cuckoo aunt into this totally cold, reptilian, lethal villain, and she can do it instantly.”
—Zach Cregger, Director of Weapons (PEOPLE)
What’s subsequent
Madigan is about to seem within the upcoming thriller Sponsor, and can attend the Academy Awards ceremony on March 15, 2026, the place she is nominated for Best Supporting Actress.
The takeaway
Madigan’s acclaimed efficiency in Weapons has introduced her long-overdue recognition, showcasing her spectacular appearing vary and flexibility after a long time within the business. Her awards season success is a testomony to her expertise and dedication, and highlights the enduring enchantment of character actors who carry depth and nuance to their roles.
