Demi Moore Celebrates First Oscar Nomination for The Substance

For the first time in her illustrious 40-plus-year career, Demi Moore has earned an Academy Award nomination. The iconic actress, celebrated for roles in films like Ghost and A Few Good Men, was nominated for Best Actress at the 2025 Oscars for her transformative performance in The Substance. The film, a darkly comedic horror directed by Coralie Fargeat, follows Moore as Elisabeth Sparkle, an aging fitness personality who takes a mysterious drug to create a younger version of herself, Sue, played by Margaret Qualley. The storyline takes a sinister turn as the two versions struggle for control, offering a bold, layered narrative that has captivated audiences and critics alike.

Demi Moore | Photo: Mubi

Reacting to the nomination, Moore expressed deep gratitude, saying, “Being nominated for an Oscar is an incredible honor and these last few months have been beyond my wildest dreams. Truly there are no words to fully express my joy and overwhelming gratitude for this recognition. Not only for me but for what this film represents. I am deeply humbled.”

Moore also used the moment to acknowledge the ongoing struggles faced by her Los Angeles community, which has been ravaged by wildfires. “This is a time of incredible contrasts, and right now, my heart is with my friends, family, neighbors, and community here in L.A. The fires have devastated so many lives, but to see the way our community has united leaves me in awe of the resilience and compassion that defines us,” she shared.

The nomination marks a pivotal moment for Moore, who recently won the Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy for her role in The Substance. Onstage, she reflected on the significance of the recognition. “I really wasn’t expecting that. I’ve been doing this a long time—over 45 years—and this is the first time I’ve ever won anything as an actor,” she said, visibly emotional. She also recalled a time when her talent was dismissed, sharing how a producer once labeled her a “popcorn” actress, implying she was only fit for commercially successful films rather than critically acclaimed ones.

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Moore credited The Substance for reigniting her passion for acting, describing the script as “magical, bold, courageous, out-of-the-box, and absolutely bonkers.” She added, “At a low point in my life, the universe told me, ‘You’re not done.’” The film not only revitalized her career but also earned five Oscar nominations, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Original Screenplay.

Moore’s nomination has sparked joy among her friends and family. Her daughter, Rumer Willis, celebrated the milestone by sharing a heartfelt post on Instagram, while friends like Sara Foster and Gwyneth Paltrow also congratulated her. Moore herself took to social media to thank the Academy and the film’s creative team, saying, “Thank you @theacademy ❤️🙏🏼 And congratulations @trythesubstance @coralie_fargeat!”

The 97th annual Academy Awards, hosted by Conan O’Brien, will air live on March 2, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood. With her heartfelt performance and inspiring career resurgence, Demi Moore’s journey to her first Oscar nomination has already made this awards season unforgettable.

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