Females Unite Behind the Oscar-Winning Actor Over Age-Related Comments

There is a groundswell of support for acclaimed star Catherine Zeta-Jones following she encountered scrutiny on social media regarding her looks at a recent red carpet appearance.

The actor was present at an industry gathering in Hollywood last month where an online segment about her role in the new series of the 'Wednesday' show became dominated because of remarks focusing on her looks.

Widespread Backing

Laura White, 58, called the backlash "complete nonsense", adding that "males escape this expiration date which women face".

"Males escape this sell-by/use-by date imposed on women," said the pageant winner.

Author Sali Hughes, 50, commented differently from men, women were unfairly judged growing older and Zeta-Jones should be able to appear as she wishes.

Online Reaction

During the interview, also shared to Facebook and garnered millions of views, the actor, originally from Wales, spoke of how much she enjoyed delving into her part, the Addams Family matriarch, in season two.

However a large portion of the numerous remarks zeroed in on her years and were negative about her appearance.

The online backlash triggered widespread defence for Zeta-Jones, such as a popular post from a social media user which stated: "People criticize females if they undergo cosmetic procedures and attack them if they avoid enough work."

Commenters also rallied in support, one stating: "She is ageing naturally and she looks stunning."

Others described her as "stunning" and "so pretty", while someone else said that "she looks her age - that is reality."

Making a Point

Ms White arrived on air recently with a bare face as a demonstration and to demonstrate there was no set "mold" of how a woman in her 50s is supposed to look.

Similar to numerous females in her demographic, she explained she "maintains her wellbeing" not to appear younger but to feel "well" and appear "vibrant".

"Getting older represents an honour and when we live as well as possible, this is what truly counts," she added.

She contended that men aren't subject to identical appearance ideals, noting "people don't ask how old Tom Cruise, George Clooney or Tom Jones are - they simply are described as 'great'."

She said that became part of the motivation she entered Miss Great Britain's category the classic category, to "show that females of a certain age remain relevant" and "retain their appeal".

Unfair Scrutiny

Sali Hughes, a writer and commentator of Welsh origin, said that although the actor is "stunning" that is "not the point", stating further she should be able to appear however she liked without her age facing scrutiny.

She stated the digital criticism showed that no female is "protected" and that females should not face the "constant narrative" suggesting they are lacking or youthful enough - a problem that is "galling, regardless of the individual targeted".

When asked if men experience the same scrutiny, she answered "not at all", adding females are targeted simply for having the "audacity" to be present online while growing older.

A No-Win Situation

Even with the wellness sector promoting "youthful longevity", the author stated women were still judged regardless of if they grow older gracefully or underwent treatments including surgical procedures or injectables.

"If you age gracefully, commenters state you ought to try harder; if you undergo procedures, you are criticized for trying too hard," she remarked further.