Mikey Madison is making waves in Hollywood with her latest headline-grabbing move: stepping into the spotlight as the new lead in A24’s upcoming adaptation of Edgar Allan Poe’s The Masque of the Red Death. This casting news, confirmed in early June 2025, comes fresh off Madison’s Oscar-winning performance in Anora, proving she’s not just a rising star—she’s here to stay. The buzz around Mikey Madison centers on her ability to pick bold, character-driven projects, and this latest role is no exception. She replaces Sydney Sweeney, who exited due to scheduling conflicts, and will play not one but two central characters in this darkly comedic, “wildly revisionist” retelling of Poe’s classic.
Madison’s ascent has been swift and deliberate. After her acclaimed turn in Anora, which earned her both a BAFTA and an Independent Spirit Award, she’s become one of the most in-demand actors of her generation. Her reputation for being selective with roles has only heightened anticipation for The Masque of the Red Death, directed by Charlie Polinger and set for domestic release by A24. Fans and critics alike are eager to see how she’ll bring to life the dual roles of twin sisters separated by class—a noblewoman and her long-lost sister, a commoner who infiltrates a lavish, plague-ridden masquerade with deadly consequences.
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From Oscar Glory to Gothic Horror
Mikey Madison’s journey from indie darling to Oscar winner has been marked by smart choices and standout performances. Her win for Anora catapulted her into the upper echelons of Hollywood, and since then, she’s fielded offers from blockbuster franchises and indie auteurs alike. She notably passed on a villain role in the upcoming Star Wars film due to creative and financial disagreements, opting instead for projects that challenge her as an actor.
Now, Madison is diving headfirst into the world of gothic horror. In The Masque of the Red Death, she’ll play twin sisters whose lives are divided by privilege and circumstance. One sister, raised in nobility, is sheltered within the prince’s abbey, while the other, hidden among the poor, infiltrates the castle seeking revenge. This twist on Poe’s original tale transforms the story from a straightforward allegory about death and decadence into a gripping narrative of personal vengeance, fractured family bonds, and social upheaval.
The film’s director, Charlie Polinger, is known for his inventive storytelling and is currently wrapping up another project, The Plague, featuring Joel Edgerton. With Madison at the helm, The Masque of the Red Death promises to be a visually lush, emotionally intense experience, blending dark humor with the visceral tension of Poe’s original nightmare.
What Sets Mikey Madison Apart
Mikey Madison stands out not just for her talent, but for her willingness to push boundaries. In The Masque of the Red Death, she’ll be tasked with portraying two distinct characters whose fates are intertwined by blood and betrayal. This dual role is a rare opportunity for an actor to showcase their range, and Madison’s recent performances suggest she’s more than up to the challenge.
Her approach to acting is thoughtful and selective. Even after her Oscar win, Madison has remained relatively quiet, only attaching herself to projects that truly excite her. Alongside The Masque of the Red Death, she’s set to star in Reptilia, a horror film co-starring Kirsten Dunst. In that film, she’ll play a dental hygienist drawn into the underworld of Florida’s exotic animal trade by a mysterious mermaid. Both roles highlight her penchant for complex, layered characters and genre-bending stories.
Madison’s career trajectory is a lesson in patience and precision. She’s turned down lucrative franchise offers, choosing instead to build a body of work that’s both critically acclaimed and personally fulfilling. This strategy is paying off: audiences are hungry to see what she’ll do next, and her upcoming projects are among the most anticipated of the year.
Why This Role Matters
The decision to cast Mikey Madison in The Masque of the Red Death is significant for several reasons. First, it signals a shift in Hollywood’s approach to classic horror adaptations. Instead of simply retelling the same story, filmmakers are looking for fresh, character-driven perspectives. Madison’s dual role as twin sisters—one privileged, one not—allows the film to explore themes of class, identity, and revenge in ways that resonate with modern audiences.
Second, Madison’s involvement brings a new level of prestige to the project. Her recent Oscar win and reputation for excellence ensure that The Masque of the Red Death will be taken seriously by critics and viewers alike. The film’s blend of dark humor, gothic horror, and social commentary is perfectly suited to her talents.
Finally, the timing couldn’t be better. With audiences craving originality and depth in their entertainment, Madison’s choice to lead this reimagining of Poe’s classic is both timely and bold. Her performance is sure to be one of the highlights of the upcoming film season.
Looking Ahead
Mikey Madison’s star is only rising. As she prepares to begin filming The Masque of the Red Death later this year or in early 2026, fans can look forward to a performance that’s as daring as it is nuanced. With additional casting details yet to be announced, anticipation for the film continues to build.
Madison’s journey from indie films to Oscar glory and now to the forefront of innovative horror is a testament to her skill and vision. She’s not just following trends—she’s setting them. For anyone interested in the future of cinema, Mikey Madison is a name to watch.
Are you excited to see Mikey Madison take on this iconic dual role? Share your thoughts and stay tuned for more updates as production gets underway.