What is the latest news on Margaret Qualley's acting career?

A Star on the Rise: Margaret Qualley’s Career Highlights

Margaret Qualley has emerged as one of Hollywood’s most dynamic talents, with a career marked by versatility and depth. Her recent performances have not only solidified her position in the industry but have also garnered widespread critical acclaim. In 2024, Qualley appeared in three major releases: Coralie Fargeat’s horror film The Substance, Yorgos Lanthimos’s Kinds of Kindness, and Ethan Coen’s Drive-Away Dolls. These roles showcased her ability to navigate diverse genres, from horror to dark comedy, and have positioned her as a strong contender for major awards in 2025[1][2].

Breakthrough Performance: Netflix’s Maid

Before her recent successes, Qualley’s breakout role came with Netflix’s limited series Maid, released in 2021. Based on Stephanie Land’s memoir, Maid tells the story of Alex, a young mother who becomes a house cleaner to rebuild her life after escaping an abusive relationship. Qualley’s portrayal of Alex earned her critical acclaim and several award nominations, including nods at the Critics’ Choice Awards, Golden Globes, SAG Awards, and Primetime Emmys[1][2]. Although she didn’t win any of these awards, her performance in Maid remains a cornerstone of her career, showcasing her ability to carry a series with authenticity and depth.

Diving into The Substance: A Career-Defining Role

The Substance stands out as a pivotal moment in Qualley’s career, marking her boldest role yet. Directed by Coralie Fargeat, the film is a visually stunning exploration of modern beauty standards and society’s obsession with youth. Qualley plays Sue, a young woman created as the “perfect” version of an older dance instructor, and her performance has captivated both critics and audiences. The film delves into how societal pressures impact perceptions of age and success, particularly for women, and Qualley’s portrayal is both physically and emotionally transformative[1][2].

The film’s success underscores Qualley’s ability to take on challenging narratives while delivering powerful, nuanced performances. Her role in The Substance has garnered significant awards buzz, including a Supporting Actress nomination at the 2025 Golden Globes. The film itself is a Best Picture nominee at the upcoming 97th Academy Awards, marking a potential milestone in Qualley’s career[5].

The Physical Toll of The Substance

Qualley’s commitment to her role in The Substance was not without its challenges. She revealed that the prosthetics she wore for the film left lasting damage on her skin, taking about a year to recover from. This physical toll impacted her subsequent projects, including Kinds of Kindness, where she incorporated her skin issues into her character’s appearance[4].

Exploring New Genres: Kinds of Kindness and Drive-Away Dolls

Beyond The Substance, Qualley ventured into darker comedies with Kinds of Kindness and Drive-Away Dolls. These projects allowed her to explore stylized, comedic performances, showcasing her versatility as an actress. In Kinds of Kindness, Qualley’s portrayal of a twisted romantic lead highlighted her ability to embrace eccentric, offbeat roles. Meanwhile, Drive-Away Dolls saw her lean into sharp, witty humor, feeling fresh and exciting for her career[1][2].

These films emphasized her adaptability, proving that she can seamlessly transition between drama, comedy, and experimental storytelling. This versatility has been a hallmark of her career, setting her apart as one of the most compelling actresses of her generation.

Upcoming Projects: A Look into 2025 and Beyond

As Qualley continues to rise in the acting world, she has several upcoming projects that promise to further cement her status as a leading talent. One of her most anticipated roles is in Richard Linklater’s Blue Moon, a 1940s biopic about acclaimed lyricist Lorenz Hart. Qualley described working on Blue Moon as “life-changing,” highlighting her excitement about collaborating with iconic directors like Linklater and Ethan Hawke[3].

Another notable project is Ethan Coen’s Honey Don’t, where Qualley will star alongside Chris Evans and Aubrey Plaza. The film is part of Coen’s “lesbian B movie trilogy” and will see Qualley play a private investigator. Additionally, she is set to appear in Happy Gilmore 2, the sequel to the beloved golfing comedy, and Huntington, a revenge thriller led by Glen Powell[3].

Qualley will also return to the realm of horror with Victorian Psycho, where she will play the lead role of an 18th-century eccentric governess with psychopathic tendencies. This film marks her reunion with director Zachary Wigon and is set to go into production in early 2025[3].

Margaret Qualley

The Future of Margaret Qualley’s Career

Margaret Qualley’s exceptional year in 2024 has not gone unnoticed. Her performances have expanded her artistic range and positioned her as a strong contender for major awards. With The Substance nominated for several Oscars, including Best Picture, Qualley is on the cusp of achieving new heights in her career[5].

As she moves forward, Qualley’s ability to tackle bold, thought-provoking roles ensures that she will remain a prominent figure in Hollywood. Whether through her transformative performance in The Substance or her unforgettable turn in Maid, Qualley continues to prove herself as a force to be reckoned with in the acting world.

Impact on the Industry

Qualley’s rise also reflects broader trends in the film industry, where versatility and willingness to take risks are increasingly valued. Her success in diverse genres and her ability to work with a range of directors highlight the importance of adaptability for actors seeking to make a lasting impact.

Moreover, Qualley’s performances have contributed to discussions about important social issues, such as the portrayal of women in society and the challenges faced by those in abusive relationships. Her work in Maid and The Substance has raised awareness about these topics, demonstrating the power of cinema to address and reflect societal concerns.

A Legacy in the Making

As Margaret Qualley continues to build her career, she is creating a legacy that will likely influence future generations of actors. Her commitment to challenging roles and her willingness to explore different genres have set her apart as a talented and dedicated actress.

Qualley’s journey from her breakout role in Maid to her current status as a leading actress in Hollywood is a testament to her hard work and talent. With each new project, she continues to push boundaries and redefine what it means to be a versatile and compelling performer in the entertainment industry.

In conclusion, Margaret Qualley’s acting career is marked by a series of bold choices and critically acclaimed performances. As she embarks on new projects and continues to explore different genres, she remains one of the most exciting and dynamic talents in Hollywood today.

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