: Research from the Center for the Study of Women in Television and Film found that while most male characters are in their 30s and 40s, female characters remain concentrated in their 20s and 30s. Women aged 60 and older accounted for just 2% of major female characters in 2025's top-grossing films.

: A Variety report on the Geena Davis Institute's 2025 study emphasizes that audiences across all demographics are eager for realistic portrayals of life stages like menopause, which are currently largely absent or stereotyped.

: Forbes India explores how actors like Demi Moore and Nicole Kidman are no longer "hiding" their age but embracing it in leading roles, marking a major turning point for the visibility of midlife female actors.

Despite high-profile successes, broad statistical data from 2026 shows significant regressions in general representation for mature women.

: The Guardian discusses how older female artists are appearing in major films and awards circuits, suggesting that the "older Hollywood woman" has become successful because of her age, not despite it.

: An article from The 19th (featured by the Geena Davis Institute) notes that audiences are demanding richer, more realistic portrayals of women over 40 that go beyond aging-specific storylines to show agency and ambition. Persistent Challenges & Statistical Gaps

Audience surveys suggest a disconnect between what viewers want and what studios are producing.

: A 2026 USC Annenberg study revealed that in 2025, not a single film in the top 100 grossing titles featured a woman of color aged 45 or older in a leading or co-leading role.