75-Year-Old Actress Stuns with Breakout Horror Performance

In a surprising turn of events, veteran actress Amy Madigan, 75, is generating major buzz for her breakout performance in the horror film "Weapons." Madigan's portrayal of the sinister Aunt Gladys, who doesn't appear until the movie's 75-minute mark, has been hailed as the "punk, pop-art performance of the year."

The film's director, Zach Cregger, was hesitant to reveal Madigan's role, keeping it a secret until the film's premiere last July. But Madigan's bonkers turn as the candy-red-lipped, orange-wigged witch has since taken the zeitgeist by storm, with fans painting portraits of the character and even dressing up as Gladys at drag shows.

Madigan's performance has also sparked talk of a potential Oscar nomination, which would make her the actress with the longest gap between nominations at 40 years. She was last recognized by the Academy in 1985 for her supporting role in "Twice in a Lifetime."

Despite the excitement surrounding "Weapons," 2025 has been a difficult year for Madigan. In January, she and her husband, actor Ed Harris, lost their home in the Palisades Fire. However, the actress has been buoyed by the generosity of friends who have helped them find temporary housing as they work to rebuild.