Demi Moore took home her first major acting honor at the Golden Globes Sunday night, winning Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy for her lead role in the body-horror film The Substance.

Facing stiff competition from Karla Sofía Gascón (Emilia Pérez) and Cynthia Erivo (Wicked), Moore appeared stunned as she accepted the award, reflecting on the long-awaited recognition in her celebrated career.

In her emotional acceptance speech, Moore recalled being labeled a “popcorn actress” 30 years ago, a comment that left her doubting her worth as a serious performer. “I believed that I could do successful movies but not be acknowledged,” she admitted, sharing how the mindset nearly ended her career.

At her lowest point, Moore came across the script for The Substance, which reignited her passion for acting. “The universe told me, ‘You’re not done,’” she said.

Directed by Coralie Fargeat, The Substance follows Elisabeth Sparkle (Moore), a former TV fitness star fired for being “too old.” When offered a mysterious “substance” to create a better version of herself, she inadvertently spawns Sue (Margaret Qualley), a younger and more successful doppelgänger who tries to take over her life, with disastrous results.

Moore praised Fargeat, Qualley, and her supporters, crediting them for reminding her of her worth. “When we feel we’re not enough, we can let go of the measuring stick and embrace our value,” she said, calling the award a celebration of her journey to self-acceptance.

Following the win, host Nikki Glaser humorously highlighted Moore’s “comeback,” noting the industry’s double standards: “If you’re a woman over 50, they call it a comeback. If you’re a man over 50, you’re cast as Sydney Sweeney’s boyfriend.”

Moore’s triumph is a landmark in her career and a powerful reminder of perseverance and reinvention.