Studies show that male characters often gain more roles as they age into their 40s, while female roles see a steep decline.

In 2025, women aged 60 and older accounted for only 2% of all major female characters in top-grossing films, compared to 8% for men in the same bracket.

The following women are currently "ruling" television and cinema through both acting and producing: Age (in 2026) Notable Current Projects The Audience , 1923 Meryl Streep Only Murders in the Building Jean Smart Hacks Jamie Lee Curtis Scarpetta (Producer/Actor) Nicole Kidman Scarpetta , Big Little Lies Viola Davis Various leading and producing roles Jennifer Aniston The Morning Show Audience and Industry Impact Beyond the Stereotypes: The Reality of Aging Women in Films

Despite these individual successes, systemic gaps remain a reality in the industry:

Only about one in four films pass the "Ageless Test," which requires at least one female character over 50 who is essential to the plot and not reduced to a stereotype. Key Powerhouse Actresses Over 50 (2026)

Historically, women in Hollywood faced a "cliff" at age 40, with roles becoming scarce or stereotypical. However, recent years have seen a shift toward more authentic and ambitious portrayals: