Films Are More Likely to Star a Man Named Chris or a Talking Animal Than an Older Woman, According to Study
A recent study highlights the underrepresentation of older women in films, revealing that movies are more likely to feature male leads named Chris or talking animals than female leads over 60. Emma Thompson, supporting the Age Without Limits campaign, emphasizes the need for more stories centered on aging women. The survey indicates a significant public desire for increased representation of older female characters in cinema.
- ▪The study found that films are more likely to feature a lead actor named Chris than a female lead actor over the age of 60.
- ▪Out of the top films from the past three years, six featured a man named Chris while only five starred a woman over 60.
- ▪39% of women believe there are not enough films featuring female actors over 60 as lead characters.
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Home Film Global May 25, 2026 12:19pm PT Films Are More Likely to Star a Man Named Chris or a Talking Animal Than an Older Woman, According to Study Emma Thompson commented on the U.K.'s Age Without Limits survey, saying "So where are the stories about us?" By Pat Saperstein Plus Icon Pat Saperstein Deputy Editor @Variety_PatS Latest Michael Jackson Docuseries Set at Netflix, Will Explore His 2005 Child Molestation Trial and Acquittal 5 days ago Warner Bros.’ Clockwork Closing In on Park Chan-Wook’s ‘The Brigands Of Rattlecreek,’ With Matthew McConaughey, Austin Butler, Pedro Pascal and Tang Wei 6 days ago Cannes Press Screening of Pedro Almodóvar’s ‘Bitter Christmas’ Evacuated Due to Medical Emergency 6 days ago See All ©Walt Disney Co./Courtesy Everett Collection A new study out of the…
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