Bollywood actress Jacqueline Fernandez made a stunning return to the Cannes Film Festival this year. While there, she shared insights into how Bollywood is becoming more age-inclusive. Fernandez reflected on her early experiences in the industry, where she faced pressures to change her appearance and hide her age.
Jacqueline Fernandez Recalls Early Pressures
When Fernandez first entered Bollywood, she felt pressured to undergo cosmetic surgery. “I was advised to get a nose job,” she revealed. “It was crazy because I loved my nose and had never considered changing it.” This was just one example of the unrealistic beauty standards she encountered.
In addition to surgery advice, Fernandez received superficial guidance from industry insiders. She recalled a conversation at the gym where an actor dismissed her efforts to improve her skills. “I told him I was taking multiple classes and undergoing diction training,” she said. “He told me to just focus on looking good and everything would be fine.” Fernandez considers this some of the worst advice she ever received, as it devalued her efforts to develop her craft.
Jacqueline Fernandez On Stigma of Age in Bollywood
Another challenge Fernandez faced was the industry’s obsession with youth. She shared an incident where an actor advised her to hide her age. “I mentioned I was about to turn 30, and he suggested I alter my passport because actresses often lost out on roles after a certain age,” she recalled. This pressure to remain ageless was a significant barrier for many actresses seeking long-term careers.
Jacqueline Fernandez Talks About Positive Shifts
Despite these early challenges, Fernandez is optimistic about Bollywood’s current state. She acknowledged that the industry is becoming more inclusive, with significant roles for actresses of all ages. “I’m happy to see that times have changed,” she said. “Today, there are films being made for and with actresses from various age groups in leading roles.” This shift shows a broader acceptance and appreciation of diverse talents and experiences in the film industry.
Fernandez’s experiences highlight both the challenges and progress within Bollywood. Her reflections at Cannes underscore the importance of a more inclusive and supportive industry that values talent over superficial standards.
