Isla Fisher believes there are now “more opportunities for women” in the creative industries than when she began her career, but added: “We still have a long way to go.” The Australian actress, 50, was among the stars at Claridge’s in London for the Harper’s Bazaar Women of the Year 2026 awards.
Industry Has Changed for Women
Speaking ahead of the ceremony, where TV presenter Claudia Winkleman and Rivals star Bella Maclean were among those recognised, Fisher reflected on the importance of celebrating women’s achievements. In an interview with the Press Association, she said: “I think the industry has changed for women. I think there are more opportunities behind and in front of the camera. We’re represented in more positions of power as film-makers, as authors, even as characters, and it is hopefully improving all the time – having more and more opportunities. But we still have a long way to go.”
Honouring Sam Taylor-Johnson
The actress, known for Wedding Crashers and Confessions Of A Shopaholic, attended to present the artist of the year award to film-maker Sam Taylor-Johnson, calling it a “complete honour.” Fisher said: “She’s someone who’s inspired me not just within her artwork as a photographer, but as a film-maker. She’s so fearless in her vulnerability, and she’s so authentically herself, and brings her energy to everything she does.”
Actresses Reflect on Progress
Oscar-nominated actress Lesley Manville, wearing a bold red gown, told PA: “The industry has changed since I started. It’s been in dips and troughs. It’s beginning to change for the better, but there’s a long way to go. It’s only getting better because we’ve had to find our voices. We’ve had to shout loud, and we’ve had to bang on doors and say that things weren’t right.” Australian actress Elizabeth Debicki agreed “there’s still a lot to fight for,” while US star Mikey Madison said: “I think at times it feels like it goes up and it goes down in terms of positive change. But it’s really amazing to see more like female film-makers empowered and uplifted, and I think it’s a wonderful time for actresses.” Madison, who recently won an Oscar for Anora, also told PA: “I think every year I learn a lot in terms of my craft or how I want to be, and how I want to move through the industry. There’s a lot of amazing women I look up to who do it so gracefully. I only hope that I’ll be able to be like them one day.”
