Lip Reader Decodes What Demi Moore Said After Losing Oscar To Mikey Madison

Moore, whose critically acclaimed role in The Substance had her as a favorite to win the coveted prize, was recorded applauding the announcement with a particularly stiff look on her face.

During the tense moment, according to lip reader Nicola Hickling, the 62-year-old actress issued a sharp and bitter, “Nice,” trying to be polite but being unable to hide her disappointment.

Demi says,‘Nice,’ but she isn’t smiling when she says it. Her body is almost nodding like she had to force herself to say it,” Hickling said.

The video, which circulated on social media shortly after it aired live, captured the actress clenching her jaw as Madison’s the name was announced.

Moore’s nomination for The Substance, a film in which she portrayed a Hollywood actress-turned-fitness-guru desperate to maintain her youth, had been widely praised throughout the award season.

The production demanded a level of physicality and range from the actress rarely seen in similar movies. It was hailed as the work that would finally grant the actress an Oscar win.

The story, which tackled how the industry uses and discards female celebrities once they reach a certain age, as well as dealing with topics of substance abuse and addiction, managed to both move and entertain audiences.

Despite its critical acclaim, The Substancewas only able to win one Oscar: Makeup and Hairstyling—a well-earned recognition of the film’s jaw-dropping and stomach-churning costumes.

On the other hand, Mikey Madison appeared dazed by her victory, delivering an emotional speech in which she acknowledged her fellow nominees, Moore included.

I also just want to recognize the thoughtful, intelligent, beautiful, breathtaking work of my fellow nominees. I’m honored to be recognized alongside all of you,” she said.

Madison also went on to dedicate her win to the “sex worker community,” explaining how the movie allowed her to benefit a cause she felt deeply connected to.

“Yes, I will continue to support and be an ally. All of the incredible people, the women that I’ve had the privilege of meeting from that community, have been one of the highlights of this incredible experience,” she added.

Despite her disappointment, Moore’s performance in The Substance has already earned her accolades, such as the Golden Globe Critics’ Choice Award, as well as the Satellite Award earlier in the season.