Resilient Media for Democracy Observatory

An independent review commissioned by the BBC’s board found that older women are much less likely than men to be seen in presenting roles. Although women outnumber men among presenters under 50, men significantly outnumber women in older age groups, especially over 60 and 70. The report suggests that while older men are viewed as gaining “gravitas and wisdom,” women face “double jeopardy” from both ageism and sexism, often being pushed toward audio-only roles as they age. Researchers noted that women over 50 are becoming an “endangered species” on television unless they maintain a youthful appearance or develop idiosyncratic personas.

Date: January 30, 2026. Source: theguardian.com