The 2026 Women in Film ReFrame Report and other influence lists highlight women who are currently shaping the industry: 2024 was a historic year for women in film - USC Annenberg
: In 2023, only three films featured a woman aged 45 or older in a leading role, compared to 32 films for men in the same age bracket. The 2026 Women in Film ReFrame Report and
The landscape for mature women in entertainment and cinema in 2026 is a study in contrasts, defined by a simultaneous surge in high-profile individual successes and persistent, systemic underrepresentation. While iconic performers like , Nicole Kidman , and Michelle Yeoh are enjoying renewed career longevity, broader industry data reveals that women over 40 continue to face a "sell-by date" that their male counterparts do not. Current Representation and Market Disparities Current Representation and Market Disparities