: Despite audience interest, menopause remains a major gap; as of early 2026, research shows it is mentioned in only 6% of top-grossing films featuring mature women and is frequently used as a punchline.
Research - Center for the Study of Women in Television & Film milfseeker luna
: For the 2026 Oscars , there has been a marked shift toward women over 40 playing "complicated" and multidimensional characters, moving beyond traditional supporting tropes. : Despite audience interest, menopause remains a major
: Women over 40 are still twice as likely as men to have storylines focused entirely on physical aging. Characters aged 60+ remain severely underrepresented, accounting for only 2% of major female roles. 2. Leading Figures and Icons Audiences are increasingly demanding complex
Established stars are leveraging their influence to redefine aging on their own terms.
Audiences are increasingly demanding complex, realistic portrayals of midlife and aging.