Menopause remains almost nonexistent in cinema. A comprehensive study of top-grossing films from 2009–2024 found that only 6% of films with a lead female character over 40 mentioned menopause at all, often using it as a punchline for mood swings. The "Silver Economy" Influence
Continues to win acclaim and awards for her lead role in Hacks , portraying a legendary comedian navigating industry shifts. Critical Industry Gaps Menopause remains almost nonexistent in cinema
Critics describe her recent stylish press tours as a "power move," rejecting the idea that women of a certain age must fade into the background. She recently returned for a high-profile turn in Only Murders in the Building . Critical Industry Gaps Critics describe her recent stylish
A 2025 study found that while 60% of major female characters in broadcast and streaming are in their 20s or 30s, major male characters are more likely to be in their 40s or older. Only 29% of female characters were older than 40, compared to over half (54%) of male characters. Only 29% of female characters were older than
When older women are shown, they are twice as likely as men to have storylines focused entirely on physical aging (15% vs. 7%).