Get ready to see a lot more of Madeleine McGraw, the young star who captivated audiences in The Black Phone franchise. But here’s where it gets exciting: UTA has officially signed her for representation in all areas, marking a major milestone in her already impressive career. This move comes on the heels of her breakout role as Gwen Shaw, the psychic sister who uses her dreams to battle a masked serial killer—a performance that left critics and fans alike in awe.
For those who haven’t seen it, The Black Phone—directed by Scott Derrickson and co-written with C. Robert Cargill—is a chilling adaptation of Joe Hill’s short story from 20th Century Ghosts. In the first film, McGraw’s character, Gwen, teams up with her abducted brother (played by Mason Thames) and the killer’s past victims, who communicate through a mysteriously disconnected phone. The sequel, The Black Phone 2, released this year, dives deeper into the psychological aftermath as Gwen and her brother face a new chapter of the same terrifying nightmare with the killer known as the Grabber. And this is the part most people miss: The franchise isn’t just about scares—it’s a gripping exploration of trauma, resilience, and the power of family bonds.
With The Black Phone grossing over $161 million worldwide and its sequel raking in $132 million, McGraw’s star is undeniably on the rise. Her performance earned her the Fangoria Chainsaw Award for Best Supporting Performance and a Saturn Award nomination, solidifying her place in the horror genre. She was also honored with the Rising Star Award at CinemaCon 2025—a testament to her talent and potential.
But McGraw’s versatility doesn’t stop at horror. Her filmography includes roles in blockbusters like Pacific Rim: Uprising, Ant-Man and the Wasp, and American Sniper, as well as voicing Bonnie in Toy Story 4. On the small screen, she’s been a series regular on Outcast and Disney Channel’s Secrets of Sulphur Springs. Here’s where it gets controversial: With such a diverse range of roles, is McGraw the next big thing in Hollywood, or is she being typecast too early? Let’s discuss in the comments.
While UTA takes the lead, McGraw remains represented by The Burstein Company, Coast to Coast, and Schreck Rose Dapello. One thing’s for sure: her journey is just beginning, and we can’t wait to see what she does next. What’s your take on her career so far? Share your thoughts below!
