: The percentage of top-grossing films with female protagonists dropped from 42% in 2024 to 29% in 2025 .
Research - Center for the Study of Women in Television & Film
1. Current Representation & Statistical Trends (2025–2026)
: Representation for women over 60 is nearly non-existent in major theatrical releases, accounting for only 2% to 3% of major female characters . In contrast, men over 60 occupy roughly 8% of major male roles.
: In top-grossing films, women experience a precipitous decline in roles as they age. Women in their 30s accounted for 32% of major female characters in 2025, but this dropped to just 15% for women in their 40s .
The quality of roles for mature women is evolving, though stereotypes remain entrenched.