Abstract
This research critically examines the evolving portrayal of middle-aged women in contemporary British television series, exploring the complex intersections of gender, age, and media representation. By analyzing a diverse range of recent TV productions, the research investigates how narratives either reinforce or challenge traditional stereotypes about women in midlife. The study employs a comprehensive qualitative content analysis, scrutinizing character development, storylines, and narrative arcs across multiple genres, including drama, comedy, and crime series. Key areas of focus include the professional and personal experiences depicted, the agency and depth afforded to middle-aged female characters, and the broader sociocultural implications of these representations. Preliminary findings suggest a gradual but significant shift in how middle-aged women are portrayed, moving beyond reductive tropes of invisibility, domesticity, or maternal roles. The research highlights emerging narratives that present nuanced, multidimensional characters who demonstrate complexity, professional competence, sexual agency, and personal growth. By critically unpacking these representations, the presentation contributes to broader discussions about media diversity, ageism, and gender dynamics in contemporary British television, offering insights into changing societal perceptions of women’s experiences in midlife.
Presenters
Margaret TallyDistinguished Professor, School for Graduate Studies, SUNY Empire State University, New Jersey, United States
