Breaking the Glass Ceiling: Women in Film and TV Fight for Equity and Age Diversity
In the film and television industry, women have long been fighting to break through the glass ceiling and achieve equity and age diversity. Despite representing the majority of consumers in the industry, women have struggled to reach C-Suite positions, with only 27% holding such positions. This glass ceiling has persisted for decades, with younger actresses being favored over more experienced and knowledgeable women.
During the 1950s, women did appear on screen, but they were often chosen based on a specific set of traits, particularly their age. Production studios preferred younger actresses, and even behind the scenes, recruiters were hesitant to hire more experienced women. This age bias has persisted over the years, contributing to the lack of representation for older women.
A 2019 report revealed that despite the success of a current blockbuster film directed by a woman, there has been little change in the representation of women working behind the scenes on top-grossing films in the past two decades. Female directors, writers, producers, and cinematographers only made up 21% of the crew on these big-budget projects. This lack of progress is disheartening, but there is hope for change.
Nikki Cole, a writer, producer, director, and showrunner, has firsthand experience of the sexism and rejection faced by women in the industry. However, she remains optimistic about recent changes for women, particularly in light of the Me Too movement. While these changes have been beneficial for younger women, older women still face rejection due to ageism. Cole is actively involved in non-profit organizations and advocates for embracing oneself and creating long-term change for women of all ages.
Cole’s own career has not been easy, but she has persevered and succeeded in various roles within the industry. Initially denied the opportunity to direct, she took on other jobs in production and post-production. Eventually, her opportunities grew, and she now works on major films and television shows while advocating for women of all ages. Cole acknowledges that the industry is often youth-oriented, but she believes that mature women have a wealth of talent, experience, and passion that is worth investing in.
To combat the stereotypes and inequities faced by older women, Cole stays current and informed in her work. She mentors for Women in Film and Television (WIFT) and is involved in multiple non-profit organizations dedicated to uplifting women in the film industry. She believes that intergenerational workforces can bring innovative ideas and raise the bar in creative fields. By including women of all ages, the industry can overcome miseducation and stereotypes.
In September, Cole will attend the Women and Film International Summit in Helsinki, where she is excited to participate and receive a travel grant from The Canada Council for the Arts. She continues to develop screenplays, collaborate on television series, and pursue her passions while advocating for gender equality and age diversity in the industry.
The fight for equity and age diversity in the film and television industry is ongoing, but with dedicated individuals like Nikki Cole leading the way, there is hope for change. By recognizing the value and contributions of women of all ages, the industry can break free from the constraints of the glass ceiling and create a more inclusive and representative landscape.`
