Renowned actress Nicole Kidman has candidly addressed the pervasive issue of ageism within the film industry, particularly towards women. In a recent interview with Dujour, the 54-year-old star, known for her outspoken stance on ageism and sexism, delved into her personal experiences as she navigates the evolving landscape of Hollywood.
Kidman revealed the prevailing sentiment in the industry, stating, "There's a consensus in the industry that as a female actor, at about 40, you're done." Acknowledging that she hasn't explicitly heard someone declare her as "past her due date," she shared instances where doors closed due to age-related biases. Despite acknowledging positive shifts, she emphasized that these challenges are a focal point of her latest film, "Being the Ricardos."
In her portrayal of Lucille Ball in the movie, Kidman drew parallels between her own journey and that of the Hollywood legend. Recalling a scene where the character is told, "You're 39, and that's it. It's kind of over for you," Kidman resonated with the sentiment, noting that television served as a pivotal door-opener for both her and Ball.
The Oscar winner stressed the importance of resilience in the face of such challenges, noting that as an actress, "you've got to have a thick skin." This echoes her previous statements at the 2018 Screen Actors Guild Awards, where she lauded the industry's increasing acceptance of women over 40.
During her acceptance speech at the awards ceremony, Kidman expressed gratitude for the industry's evolution, highlighting, "Twenty years ago, we were pretty washed up by this stage in our lives, so that's not the case now." She commended fellow actresses for their trailblazing performances, emphasizing the continued potency, power, and viability of women in the industry beyond the age of 40. The sentiment garnered a standing ovation, reflecting the collective acknowledgment of the evolving narrative around age and talent in Hollywood.
