Renowned actress Catherine Zeta-Jones has expressed her disappointment over the scarcity of quality roles available to women over 40 in Hollywood.
In a recent online chat on the Mumsnet platform, the 46-year-old star delved into various aspects of her career and personal life.
According to Zeta-Jones, the dearth of compelling roles for actresses in their 40s stems from the perception among top Hollywood executives that such portrayals fail to captivate movie audiences.
She emphasized that there are numerous captivating stories centered on women in this age group waiting to be told but are often overlooked by industry decision-makers.
Reflecting on her own aspirations in the film industry, Zeta-Jones shared that her desire to pursue acting was inspired by witnessing remarkable performances delivered by women in their 40s.
She stressed the importance of genuine diversity in casting, advocating for inclusivity across different demographics such as ethnicity, age, and gender.
The Academy Award-winning actress highlighted ongoing discussions surrounding diversity issues in Hollywood, particularly in light of the recent controversy surrounding the lack of recognition for black and minority ethnic actors in major award ceremonies.
While acknowledging the complexities of the situation, Zeta-Jones urged for a collective effort involving writers, filmmakers, and studios to foster projects that embrace diversity and provide equitable opportunities for all talents.
Amid her promotional activities for the cinematic adaptation of the classic BBC One sitcom Dad’s Army, Zeta-Jones reminisced about her fond memories of watching the original series during her youth.
She expressed gratitude for being part of the British television landscape, citing her involvement in beloved shows like The Darling Buds Of May as a significant milestone in her career.
Transitioning from her television successes to Hollywood blockbusters, Zeta-Jones made a notable impact with her roles in iconic films such as The Mask of Zorro and the critically acclaimed Traffic.
Her standout performance in the musical Chicago earned her widespread acclaim and a coveted Academy Award, solidifying her status as a versatile and accomplished actress in the industry.
Looking ahead, Zeta-Jones revealed her passion for musical productions and her eagerness to return to Broadway for a new challenge in a straight play, marking a departure from her previous ventures on stage.
Despite her extensive time spent living and working in the United States, she remains closely connected to her hometown of Swansea, actively following the local football scene as a loyal supporter.
