One of the most significant challenges facing mature women in entertainment is the prevalence of ageism. According to a study by the Sundance Institute, women over 40 are significantly underrepresented in leading roles in film and television. The study found that only 2% of leading roles in the top 100 films of 2019 were played by women over 50, compared to 12% of leading roles played by men over 50. This disparity is even more pronounced when it comes to women of color, who face both ageism and racism in the industry.