Only 12% of 2025 feature films were written by women over 40. Experts from The Writers Lab argue that complex roles for older actresses cannot exist if the writers themselves are being excluded from the industry as they age.
While theatrical film has seen a "roll-back" in diversity, television—particularly streaming—offers a brighter outlook for mature women. Women Creators (2024-25) Impact on Inclusion 36% (Historic High) 75% higher chance of diverse hiring Broadcast 20% (Stagnant) Primarily male-led creative teams
A 2025 study found that of films with a woman 40+ in a leading role, only 6% even mentioned menopause , and most of those references were used for humor rather than authentic storytelling. Streaming vs. Broadcast: A Divergence de bella milf
Despite these gaps, women 50+ are a powerful economic force, making 80% of household purchase decisions . AARP reports that 79% of older adults want stories that reflect their real-life experiences. Beyond the Stereotypes: The Reality of Aging Women in Films
Research from the Geena Davis Institute (GDI) and the Center for the Study of Women in Television and Film highlights a sharp decline in opportunities as women age compared to their male counterparts. Only 12% of 2025 feature films were written by women over 40
Mature women behind the camera face similar "ageing out" hurdles.
In recent years, mature women in entertainment have faced a landscape of "cosmetic" progress and persistent stagnation. While high-profile awards for actresses like , Frances McDormand , and Jean Smart suggest a shift toward visibility, data from 2024–2026 reveals deep structural barriers and a recent regression in lead roles for women over 40. The "Midlife Gap" in Film and Television Women Creators (2024-25) Impact on Inclusion 36% (Historic
In 2025, women accounted for only 23% of key behind-the-scenes roles (directors, writers, editors) in the top 250 films—the same figure as in 2020.