Part 7/9:
The Double Standard: Looks Versus Qualifications
Theron’s emphasis on shifting industry norms points to a double standard: women are often valued primarily for their appearance, while men are rarely scrutinized this way. She suggests that women are willing to play into this system because it benefits them financially and professionally—yet they also critique it once they reach an age where that look is less marketable.
This paradox reveals a deep-rooted issue within Hollywood’s culture, where attractiveness is commodified, but aging women face systemic barriers and often a loss of agency. Theron’s articulate critique underscores the importance of recognizing these dynamics and advocating for a more equitable industry.