: In the 50+ age bracket, male characters outnumber females significantly—80% in films and 75% in broadcast TV are men.
But in 2026, the tide is officially turning. From prestige streaming series to blockbuster franchises, mature women are no longer just supporting characters—they are the main event. The Numbers: Progress Amidst the Gap
However, the "silver economy" is pushing back. Audiences over 50 spend over $10 billion annually on entertainment, and 73% of them say they are more likely to watch content that features characters who reflect their lives. Icons Redefining the Prime