The industry’s logic was brutal and sexist:

The increasing visibility and empowerment of mature women in entertainment and cinema have significant implications for society and culture. By challenging ageism and stereotypes, these women are helping to redefine what it means to be a woman and to age.

To understand the current shift, one must acknowledge the historical absence of older women on screen. In the Golden Age of Hollywood, leading actresses often saw their careers decline rapidly post-40. The industry, driven by the "male gaze," prioritized youth as the sole currency of female value.