The Ageism of Hollywood: A Multifaceted Problem

Brooke Shields’ latest role in the murder-mystery series “You’re Killing Me” has shed light on a long-standing issue in Hollywood: ageism. This is not just about Shields, nor is it solely a matter of sexism; it’s a symptom of a larger problem that highlights the industry’s failure to adapt to changing times and its own internal contradictions.

The notion that Shields “can’t play funny because she’s too pretty” is a tired trope that has been trotted out in Hollywood. What’s interesting, however, is not just that this argument was made, but that it was made by network executives who had previously worked with Shields on other projects. This suggests that deep-seated biases are still at play in the industry – biases that privilege youth over experience.

Shields’ memoir “Brooke Shields Is Not Allowed to Get Old: Thoughts on Ageing as a Woman” provides valuable context for this issue. She notes that strong, complex female leads have been around since the dawn of storytelling itself. For example, Homer’s Odyssey features memorable characters like Nausicaa and Calypso, while comedies starring Irene Dunne and Lucille Ball showcased women who used their intelligence, wit, and physicality to create iconic performances.

These examples are not just nostalgic relics; they also highlight the disconnect between Hollywood’s feminine ideal and the female experience. Shields argues that this disconnect is becoming more apparent in popular culture – as embodied by the success of films like “The Favourite” or TV shows like “Fleabag”. You’re Killing Me, which Shields describes as a “generational gap comedy”, taps into this trend by featuring humor rooted in the awkward interactions between Shields’ character and her younger collaborator.

Shields has had to navigate these changes throughout her career. From her early days as a model and actress in the 1970s and 1980s, to her current role as president of the Actors’ Equity Association, she’s seen firsthand the ways in which Hollywood prioritizes youth over experience. This is not just about the actors themselves; it’s also about the industry’s treatment of its workers.

Shields has been vocal about the need for better wages and working conditions for performers, particularly those employed by Disney’s theme parks and Casa Bonita. Her efforts to lobby the US government are a testament to her commitment to fighting for the rights of her fellow actors.

Moreover, Shields is speaking out against the exploitation of young performers in the industry – from reality TV shows like “Next Gen NYC” to influencer culture as a whole. Her daughter Rowan’s experience on these platforms serves as a stark reminder of their potential harm, even for those who seem to thrive in them.

Ultimately, Shields’ story is about the industry’s failure to adapt to changing times. It’s a multifaceted problem that requires a multifaceted solution – one that involves advocating for greater representation and inclusion, but also addressing systemic issues that perpetuate ageism and sexism in Hollywood.

As Shields notes, “a woman of this age needs this young person in her life” – not because she’s too old to be funny or relevant, but because she has valuable experiences and perspectives to bring to the table. It’s time for Hollywood to start valuing these contributions, rather than perpetuating tired stereotypes about aging actresses.