The Run-Through with Vogue How Mikey Madison Prepared For Her Role In The Social Reckoning
Sep 28, 2026
Mikey Madison, the acclaimed actress from Better Things, Scream, and Anora, discusses transforming into whistleblower Frances Haugen for The Social Reckoning. She shares the research and restraint behind the role, contrasts Aaron Sorkin’s precision with Sean Baker’s improvisation, and reflects on lifelong bonds from Better Things. She also opens up about horses, rescue donkeys, family, baking, fashion, and avoiding social media.
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Mikey Madison Discovered Frances Haugen Through Research
- Madison initially knew only that Frances Haugen was a whistleblower before reading the script.
- She researched Haugen extensively and exchanged emails with her before their planned first meeting.
Why Madison Chose Character Over Physical Resemblance
- Aaron Sorkin discouraged Madison from copying Haugen’s appearance and asked her to build the character from his script.
- That choice shifted her preparation from physical resemblance toward capturing Haugen’s courage and purpose.
The Intellectual Transformation Behind Frances Haugen
- Unlike Anora’s physical transformation, Frances required Madison to perform an intellectual transformation.
- She focused on restraint because Frances processes emotion differently and feels most comfortable behind a computer screen.