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Viola Davis Says She Feels More Valuable at 61

Her AARP interview reframes aging as creative freedom that challenges Hollywood ageism.

Overview

  • In a Sept. 10 interview for AARP’s Movies for Grownups, Davis said turning 61 has increased her sense of worth and given her the freedom to define herself.
  • She told PEOPLE that she once feared failure but now believes setbacks do not determine her value or limit what she can pursue.
  • Davis pushed back against the idea that age should restrict roles, saying being 61 should not rule out action parts, love scenes, or other demanding work.
  • The comments arrive as Davis remains highly active professionally, with an EGOT already completed in 2023 and a credited role in Paramount’s Children of Blood and Bone set for Jan. 15, 2027.
  • AARP’s ‘25 Most Fabulous Gen X Actresses’ profile places Davis atop a list that spotlights older actresses building power behind the camera and could further shift casting and industry attitudes about age.