Thirty years ago, a producer called Demi Moore, a “popcorn actress,” reduced her acting to light entertainment without depth. But at the 2025 Golden Globes Awards, Demi Moore silenced her critics and proved them wrong by taking home her first-ever major industry award—Best Actress in a Comedy or Musical.
After a 45-year career that included blockbusters like Ghost and St. Elmo’s Fire, Moore stood in disbelief on stage as she received the award for her role in The Substance, a bold feminist horror-comedy that took the world by storm.
Demi Moore’s Golden Globes speech was eloquent and touching
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Demi Moore exuded the confidence of an award winner as she made an eye-catching entrance at the Golden Globes. The actress wore a shiny, strapless, silver gown that hugged her body. The dress was custom-made by Armani Privé for her. She swept her hair back in her classic side parting which was styled by celebrity hair stylist Dimitris Gianneto. Moore completed the look with a Cartier statement earring and Christian Louboutin heels.
When her name was announced, Moore’s shock and joy were evident. After taking the stage, she paused for a moment to take a deep breath before delivering one of the most eloquent and moving speeches of the night. Moore shared how the label “popcorn actress” affected her self-worth negatively. “At that time, I believed it,” she admitted. “And over time, that belief eroded me to the point where I thought a few years ago, maybe this was it. Maybe I had done all I was supposed to do.” Her vulnerability resonated deeply with the audience, who applauded her honesty.
Her speech wasn’t just a celebration of her win, it was a message of empowerment. She took the moment to encourage her audience and fans. Moore gave an emotional piece of advice she once received as she was rounding up her speech: “In those moments when we don’t think we’re smart enough, pretty enough, skinny enough, or successful enough, just know—you will never be enough. But you can know the value of your worth if you just put down the measuring stick.”
Demi Moore won the award for her role in ‘The Substance’
The 62-year-old actress’s Golden Globe win came for her portrayal of Elisabeth Sparkle in The Substance, directed by French filmmaker Coralie Fargeat. The film follows Elisabeth, a woman who takes a mysterious drug to transform herself into an idealized version of who she thinks she should be. The Substance quickly spirals into chaos, exposing society’s obsession with youth, beauty, and perfection.
Margaret Qualley co-starred alongside Moore, bringing her own skills to the project. Margaret Qualley, who starred as a scientist, worked alongside Moore in the film to bring more depth and life to Moore’s character. Critics praised the duo’s performances, calling them the heart of the film. The Substance was celebrated not just as a feminist story but also as a bold reinvention of the horror-comedy genre. It showcased Moore’s versatility as an actor and her ability to push boundaries. Moore revealed in interviews that the script came to her during a low point in her life. “I thought I was done with acting,” she said. “But then this magical, bold, courageous, absolutely bonkers script came across my desk, and it felt like the universe was telling me I wasn’t done.”
Moore’s victory was also a family affair. Her daughters Rumer, Scout, and Tallulah Willis cheered her on. Shortly after her win, the trio shared a video on Instagram, which captured their joy as Moore’s name was announced. “She did it!” they exclaimed. Even Margaret Qualley joined in the celebration, posting a congratulatory message on Instagram. “Oh Demi Moore I’m so happy for you, congratulations on the recognition you deserve.” Fans also celebrated Moore’s win, flooding social media with celebratory messages. Many praised her resilience and strength calling the recognition “long overdue.”