Before Oscars, Mikey Madison Shone in Hulu's 'Better Things'

The rising star honed her skills on the FX comedy-drama before landing a lead role in the acclaimed film 'Anora'.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Before winning an Oscar for her lead role in the film 'Anora', Mikey Madison first gained attention for her sharp, funny performance as Max Fox on the FX series 'Better Things'. The semi-autobiographical comedy-drama from Pamela Adlon allowed Madison to showcase her talents as a rising young actress, with the show serving as a formative experience that prepared her for her breakout film role.

Why it matters

Madison's work on 'Better Things' demonstrated her versatility and range as an actress, laying the groundwork for her acclaimed performance in 'Anora' that earned her an Oscar. The FX series also built a loyal fanbase that has now discovered her star power, making it an important part of her journey to mainstream recognition.

The details

On 'Better Things', Madison played the headstrong eldest daughter of single mom Sam Fox, locking horns with her mother while also surprising her in heartwarming ways. The show, which ran for five seasons, was credited by Madison as teaching her how to act, with the young actress joining the cast at age 15 and growing into the role over the course of the series. Her work on 'Better Things' then led to supporting parts in films like 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood' and the 'Scream' reboot, before director Sean Baker cast her in the lead role of 'Anora' without an audition, essentially building the film around her.

  • Madison joined the cast of 'Better Things' at age 15 in 2017.
  • The 'Better Things' series finale aired in 2022.
  • Madison won the Oscar for Best Actress for 'Anora' in 2024.

The players

Mikey Madison

The rising young actress who starred as Max Fox on 'Better Things' before earning an Oscar for her lead role in the film 'Anora'.

Pamela Adlon

The creator, writer, director, and star of the FX series 'Better Things', on which Madison had a breakout role.

Sean Baker

The acclaimed director who cast Madison in the lead role of his film 'Anora' without an audition, essentially building the project around her.

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What they’re saying

“Better Things was like my college,”

— Mikey Madison

“I started the show when I was 15 and a half and I will be 23 soon... I am kind of heartbroken that it is ending, but also excited for what it might allow.”

— Mikey Madison

The takeaway

Mikey Madison's breakout role on the FX series 'Better Things' served as a formative experience that prepared her for the acclaim and success that followed, including her Oscar-winning performance in 'Anora'. The show allowed her to hone her craft and demonstrate her versatility as an actress, laying the groundwork for her rapid rise to stardom.