: Recent studies highlight a steep drop-off in roles for women after age 40. While 41% of major female characters on TV are in their 30s, this falls to just 16% for those in their 40s. In contrast, more than half of major male characters are older than 40.
: Audiences are increasingly demanding realistic portrayals of menopause and midlife navigation. The Geena Davis Institute recently highlighted a lack of such representation, noting that only 6% of top films featuring women over 40 even mention menopause, and often only as a joke. Economic and Cultural Impact Why Hollywood's Obsession With Aging Is Killing Cinema Private - Marina Beaulieu (MILF Marina Beauliea...
Despite systemic hurdles, recent years have seen historic milestones for mature actresses: : Recent studies highlight a steep drop-off in
: Mature women have recently dominated major award categories. For example, at the 2026 Movies for Grownups Awards , Laura Dern won Best Actress for Is This Thing On? , and Regina Hall took home Best Supporting Actress for One Battle After Another . For example, at the 2026 Movies for Grownups