Mikey Madison, Emma Stone, Michelle Yeoh: Revisiting actresses who made Oscar history ahead of the 98th Academy Awards

In anticipation of the 98th Academy Awards, set for March 15, 2026, we look back at the women who defined the last six years of cinematic excellence. From Mikey Madison’s recent underdog triumph for 'Anora' to Michelle Yeoh’s historic barrier-breaking win, these five actresses didn't just accept trophies—they delivered moments of raw, unscripted humanity. As Hollywood prepares for another star-studded night at the Dolby Theatre, these modern icons remind us that the true power of an Oscar lies in the vulnerability and authenticity behind the performance.

Mikey Madison’s 2024 win for Anora feels like a fresh wound turned triumph. At just 25, she beat heavyweights like Demi Moore and Cynthia Erivo, her raw portrayal of a chaotic New York sex worker exploding on screen. Photos show her frozen mid-scream of joy, mascara smudging as she hugs her team, whispering thanks to her mom in the crowd. It is the kind of unscripted moment that screams underdog fire: a young actress who poured her guts into a role and walked away changed.

Emma Stone doubled down in 2023 with Poor Things, her second Best Actress statue after 'La La Land'. She beat Sandra Hüller and Lily Gladstone, transforming into a wild, reborn Victorian woman on a voyage of self-discovery. Gallery shots catch her biting her lip, fighting happy sobs on stage as her gown shimmers under the lights. Emma later admitted the nerves nearly broke her, but that messy, brilliant performance proved her staying power—a reminder that true artists evolve through vulnerability.

Michelle Yeoh made history in 2022 as the first Asian woman to win Best Actress for 'Everything Everywhere All at Once'. She edged out Cate Blanchett and Michelle Williams, embodying a laundromat mom juggling multiverses and family strife. Her Oscar night photos radiate fierce gratitude: fists pumped, voice cracking as she dedicated it to “all the little boys and girls out there.” At 60, after decades of martial arts kicks and typecasting battles, Yeoh’s win felt like sweet revenge, her smile said, “I told you so.”

Jessica Chastain won the 2021 prize for 'The Eyes of Tammy Faye,' outshining Olivia Colman and Nicole Kidman. She channeled the televangelist’s wife with fluttering lashes and unshakeable faith, her transformation was so deep it left audiences stunned. In victory photos, her red hair wild, she beams with quiet relief, clutching the Oscar like a long-lost friend. Chastain spoke of the role’s personal pull, drawing from her own outsider grit to honor a woman’s messy redemption.