Martha Lauzen - Center for the Study of Women in Television & Film

The landscape for mature women in entertainment is currently a study in contradictions: while legendary actresses are delivering career-defining performances and winning top honors, statistical representation for women over 40—and especially over 60—remains in a period of relative decline. The "Exceptionalism" Paradox

: Actresses over 50 have recently dominated major ceremonies. For example, at the 2025 Emmys , veterans like Jean Smart (74) and Jamie Lee Curtis (66) took home top awards.

: Despite these individual wins, lead roles for women plummeted in 2025. Only 29% of top-grossing films featured female protagonists, down from 42% in 2024.

While traditional cinema has struggled with age diversity, streaming services have emerged as a more inclusive alternative.