Amy Madigan's Fierce 'Weapons' Performance Earns Awards Attention

The veteran character actress opens up about her unexpected awards season success and storied career.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Amy Madigan, who earned an Oscar nomination for her performance as Aunt Gladys in the horror hit "Weapons", tells PEOPLE about the unexpected attention she's received, her past as a musician, and her marriage to actor Ed Harris. Despite the accolades, including a Critics Choice Award and a New York Film Critics Circle Award, Madigan says she hasn't been flooded with new acting offers, but is grateful to be more in people's conversations. The 75-year-old actress helped shape her character's over-the-top look and is enjoying the current moment, though she remains grounded with the support of her husband Harris.

Why it matters

Madigan's awards season success is a testament to her impressive acting range and career longevity. As a veteran character actress, her acclaimed performance in "Weapons" has introduced her to a new generation of fans and brought her long-overdue recognition, despite decades of acclaimed work in film and television.

The details

Madigan, who earned her first Oscar nomination 40 years ago for 1985's "Twice in a Lifetime", delighted viewers and critics with her twisted take on the ghoulish Aunt Gladys in the horror hit "Weapons". Working closely with the film's creative team, Madigan helped shape the character's memorable look of smeared lipstick, a red wig, and oversized glasses. The distinctive appearance launched countless Halloween costumes and drag queen impersonations, drawing even more attention to Madigan's performance.

  • Weapons premiered in August 2025.
  • Madigan earned an Oscar nomination in February 2026.

The players

Amy Madigan

A 75-year-old veteran character actress who earned an Oscar nomination for her performance as Aunt Gladys in the horror film Weapons.

Ed Harris

Madigan's husband, a four-time Oscar nominee, who she has collaborated with on projects like the 2000 Jackson Pollock biopic Pollock.

Zach Cregger

The director of Weapons, who cast Madigan for her ability to seamlessly transition between playing an "effervescent, sparky" aunt and a "cold, reptilian, lethal villain".

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What they’re saying

“All of this was unexpected. That's a very nice surprise.”

— Amy Madigan, Actress (PEOPLE)

“She can go from being this effervescent, sparky, you know, cuckoo aunt into this totally cold, reptilian, lethal villain, and she can do it instantly.”

— Zach Cregger, Director of Weapons (PEOPLE)

What’s next

Madigan is set to appear in the upcoming thriller Sponsor, and will attend the Academy Awards ceremony on March 15, 2026, where she is nominated for Best Supporting Actress.

The takeaway

Madigan's acclaimed performance in Weapons has brought her long-overdue recognition, showcasing her impressive acting range and versatility after decades in the industry. Her awards season success is a testament to her talent and dedication, and highlights the enduring appeal of character actors who bring depth and nuance to their roles.