Mikey Madison Says She’s ‘Too Much of an Overthinker’ to Get a ‘Big Head’ After Winning an Oscar (Exclusive)

**Mikey Madison Reflects on Life Post-Success and Upcoming Projects**

In the latest issue of PEOPLE, Oscar-winning actress Mikey Madison speaks candidly about her experiences following her rise to prominence in Hollywood. The 27-year-old star, who garnered acclaim for her performances in “Better Things” and “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood,” shares her thoughts on how success has influenced her life and career.

Madison, known for her standout role in the award-winning film “Anora,” conveys a sense of duality in her emotional state. “I feel like so much has changed,” she stated, yet she reassures readers that, “at the same time, I still feel exactly like I always have in a lot of ways.” This sentiment reflects a struggle many public figures experience after achieving success; maintaining authenticity can often feel like a balancing act.

One of the most noticeable changes in Madison’s career is the influx of job offers following her breakthrough. She expresses gratitude for the opportunity to engage with “really interesting characters,” working with prominent filmmakers whom she has long admired. Among her inspirations, Madison cites Cate Blanchett and Meryl Streep as dream co-stars she would love to share the screen with in future projects.

As she looks ahead, the forthcoming years appear promising for Madison, with an Edgar Allan Poe adaptation featuring Léa Seydoux and a thrilling mermaid project alongside Kirsten Dunst on the horizon. Despite her growing stardom, she maintains a refreshing perspective on fame, saying with humour, “I’m too much of an overthinker and too self-critical to ever get a big head.”

Madison’s latest release, “The Social Reckoning,” directed by Aaron Sorkin, sees her take on the role of Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen. The film, serving as a companion piece to “The Social Network,” highlights Haugen’s impactful decision to leak internal documents exposing the platform’s prioritisation of user engagement over safety. The movie opened in theatres on October 9, 2026, and has drawn attention for its timely subject matter.

Interestingly, Madison has distanced herself from social media, which she admits “never fully resonated” with her. “Telling stories authentically is my number one biggest goal as an actress,” she emphasises, further explaining her preference for letting audiences focus on her characters rather than her personal life.

When she is not gracing the silver screen, Madison takes solace in the comforts of home. She describes herself as a “homebody,” spending her downtime with an array of pets that include three Chihuahuas, two donkeys, and a cat. This “menagerie” keeps her grounded amidst the whirlwind of her career, asserting that their companionship plays a crucial role in her stability during tumultuous times.

Despite her busy schedule, Madison expresses her curious nature, particularly regarding her donkeys, for whom she is actively learning training techniques. Poking fun at curious inquiries about her pets’ functionality, she laughs, “What do they do? They’re just cute, and that’s good enough for me.” This light-hearted approach to her personal life serves as a testament to her humility amidst newfound fame.

Madison’s ability to maintain a grounded perspective is evident in her relationship with friends and family. “I feel like I still have people that keep me pretty tethered,” she remarks, highlighting the importance of community in her life. This connection to her roots, she believes, is vital in helping her navigate the complexities of fame while staying true to who she is.

As her career continues to flourish, Mikey Madison embodies a blend of ambition and authenticity, ensuring that her journey in the spotlight remains as organic as possible. With several exciting projects on the horizon, audiences eagerly await to see how this talented actress will further unfold her narrative in the competitive realm of Hollywood.