: Women aged 60 and older accounted for just 2% of major female characters in 2025's biggest films, compared to 8% for men in the same age bracket.
: In 2025, zero top-grossing films featured a woman of color aged 45 or older in a leading or co-leading role. 2. Leading Figures and "Second Act" Successes
: Most female characters on screen are still in their 20s and 30s, whereas male characters frequently remain in major roles through their 40s. milfthonghunters movies
A generation of established actresses is currently redefining career longevity by taking on high-powered, complex roles well into their 50s, 60s, and 70s.
The portrayal of mature women in entertainment is undergoing a significant cultural shift, transitioning from a historical "narrative of decline" toward what experts call a "stigma-busting" era. While systemic ageism persists, contemporary cinema and television are increasingly recognizing the bankability and complexity of female characters over 40. : Women aged 60 and older accounted for
: Figures like Demi Moore ( The Substance ), Nicole Kidman ( Babygirl ), and Isabella Rossellini ( Conclave ) are leading major projects that challenge traditional perceptions of aging.
: Mature women have recently dominated major categories, with Frances McDormand (64) winning Best Actress for Nomadland and Youn Yuh-jung (74) winning Best Supporting Actress for Minari . Leading Figures and "Second Act" Successes : Most
Research - Center for the Study of Women in Television & Film