Emma Thompson has hit out at filmmakers following a study that reveals the stark underrepresentation of women over 60 in cinema. The campaign by The Age Without Limits found that only five of the 100 highest-grossing films over the past three years featured a woman older than 60 as a lead. The study also highlighted that films were four times more likely to have a talking animal as a lead than an older woman.
Thompson's Call for Change
Thompson expressed her desire to see "more films centre ageing women," adding that "older women don't need permission to exist on screen. They already exist in the world – cinema just needs to catch up." The Oscar-winning actress has long been an advocate for age diversity in Hollywood, and her latest comments come in response to the alarming statistics.
Study Findings
The research, conducted by the Centre for Ageing Better, analysed the top-grossing films from 2023 to 2025. It found that only five films had a female lead over the age of 60, compared to 12 films starring a man named Chris. Dr Carol Easton OBE, chief executive of the Centre for Ageing Better, described the findings as "absolutely ludicrous." She said: "It is absolutely ludicrous to think so few films have been made in recent years that have an older woman at the front and centre."
Industry Implications
The study underscores a broader issue of ageism in Hollywood, where older women are often sidelined in favour of younger actors or even animated characters. Thompson's criticism highlights the need for the film industry to reflect the diversity of the real world, where women over 60 are active and vibrant members of society. The campaign urges filmmakers to create more roles for older women, both in front of and behind the camera.
Thompson's comments have sparked a wider conversation about representation in cinema, with many calling for a shift in how ageing women are portrayed. As the industry continues to evolve, there is hope that more stories will centre on the experiences and perspectives of women over 60.
