For far too long, women over 40 have been treated like expired cartons of milk in the world of television—pushed to the sidelines unless they’re doling out maternal wisdom or serving as background characters to the real (read: younger) stars. The message has been clear: age diminishes a woman’s value, while men are allowed to grey into "distinguished" experts. But thankfully, cracks are starting to show in this outdated narrative. Shows like "The Great Pottery Throw Down" and "MasterChef" are finally giving older women the airtime they deserve—not just as wise mentors or judges, but as the talented, passionate, and incredibly skilled artists and chefs they’ve always been.
Take the food world. Gordon Ramsay and Jamie Oliver are practically TV institutions, yet chefs like Angela Hartnett and Dominique Crenn—women with Michelin stars and decades of experience—are rarely given the same breathless admiration. In ceramics, "The Great Pottery Throw Down" has become a beloved celebration of clay, but how often do we see the legendary work of Kate Malone or Magdalene Odundo front and center? For years, the industry has been obsessed with "fresh faces," as if expertise and mastery somehow have an expiration date.
But here’s the good news: things are shifting. These shows aren’t just bucking the trend; they’re smashing it with a sledgehammer. Older women aren’t just tolerated—they’re celebrated. They’re contestants, teachers, inspirations, and proof that skill doesn’t fade with age. It turns out audiences *love* watching experienced, passionate women at work. Who would’ve thought? (Oh right, women did. We’ve known it all along.)
This isn’t just about feel-good representation. It’s about women over 40 getting the recognition they deserve as serious, talented artists. The show has consistently celebrated older female contestants who bring not just years of lived experience but also an incredible depth of creativity and technical skill. Just look at the inspiring examples from recent seasons. Rosalind Worland, who competed in 2023 at age 60, brought a wealth of experience, crafting stunning, intricate pieces that blended history with contemporary artistry. Then there was 2021 finalist Sally Tully, whose delicate and expressive work proved that artistry evolves and deepens with time. And let’s not forget Jodie Neale, who won the 2021 season at the age of 43, proving that mastery and passion can peak at any stage of life.
So if you’ve ever been told it’s too late to start something new, whether it’s throwing a pot on a wheel or mastering the perfect soufflé, consider this your sign to tell that idea to get in the bin. It’s never too late. And finally, TV is starting to wake up to that fact.