Elizabeth Banks recently disclosed that she encountered age discrimination when she was considered too old at 28 for the role of Mary-Jane, Spider-Man’s love interest.

The accomplished American actress and producer, now aged 42, recounted her screen test alongside Tobey Maguire for the 2002 film.

Despite being only 16 months older than the lead actor, Banks was turned down for the part due to her age.

During an interview with Glamour magazine, she expressed, “I tried out for the character of Mary-Jane Watson in the initial Spider-Man movie with Tobey Maguire.

Tobey and I are almost the same age, yet I was informed that I was too old for the role.

It was a realization of the industry standards.”

Ultimately, the role of Mary-Jane went to Kirsten Dunst, who was approximately 20 years old at the time.

Banks accepted a smaller role as Daily Bugle secretary Betty Brant, which she portrayed in two more Spider-Man movies.

Banks now reflects on the experience with gratitude, recognizing that she was not just a passing trend like many young actresses.

This has allowed her to have a lasting career in the industry.

Her passion lies in character-driven comedies, and she notably directed the successful film Pitch Perfect 2, earning $285 million globally.

Although she chose not to direct the third installment of the franchise, Banks made the decision to prioritize her family over her career.

She explained that the new filming schedule conflicted with her parental duties, and she did not feel comfortable balancing the two aspects of her life.