Streaming has been a major catalyst. Series like Mare of Easttown (Kate Winslet), Happy Valley (Sarah Lancashire), and The Crown (Imelda Staunton) prove that complex, messy, sexual, and powerful women over 50 are appointment viewing.

However, there are signs of progress. The success of films like "Book Club" (2018), "The Heat" (2013), and "Ocean's 8" (2018) – all of which feature mature women in leading roles – suggests that audiences are hungry for more diverse, inclusive storytelling.