The Rise of Older Heroes on TV: A Shift in Storytelling Priorities?

The recent announcement that CBS has ordered a pilot for “Hilda! (In Lights!)”, a comedy about a 70-year-old would-be stage actress, is the latest example of a growing trend in television. Shows like NBC’s “Newlyweds” and Netflix’s “A Man on the Inside”, which feature older characters as leads, are becoming increasingly common.

This shift towards more mature protagonists may reflect changing audience interests. As demographics shift and older adults become a larger segment of the population, television shows are starting to reflect this new reality. The traditional narrative of the young hero embarking on a journey, often marked by invincibility and limitless possibility, has been a staple of popular culture for decades.

CBS’s decision to commission “Hilda! (In Lights!)” is a calculated risk. With fewer comedies being commissioned than in previous years, the network is placing bets on more niche or genre-specific programming. This unusual premise and older protagonist represent a deliberate attempt by network executives to push boundaries.

While there is no clear indication that this trend will translate to broader changes in television production or casting practices, shows like “Matlock” and “The Boroughs”, which feature lead characters over 60, are often relegated to niche or prestige programming. The success or failure of “Hilda! (In Lights!)” could serve as a bellwether for the industry’s willingness to challenge traditional notions of what makes a compelling protagonist.

One concern is that older protagonists will be tokenized rather than treated with genuine depth and nuance. If this happens, it would be a missed opportunity for television writers to explore complex themes related to aging, identity, and the human experience. However, if handled thoughtfully and authentically, shows like “Hilda! (In Lights!)” could pave the way for more inclusive storytelling practices in the entertainment industry.

The film industry has been slower to adapt, but there are signs that movies with older protagonists are gaining traction. Recent films like “The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel” and “Amélie” have found success with audiences and critics alike.

In a media landscape where diversity and representation are increasingly being prioritized, the inclusion of older heroes is significant. It challenges our collective understanding of what constitutes a compelling story and forces audiences to confront their own biases and assumptions about aging.

For decades, older adults have been relegated to supporting roles or marginalized in favor of younger protagonists. By placing them at the center of narratives, writers and showrunners are forcing audiences to reevaluate their perceptions of aging.

The success or failure of “Hilda! (In Lights!)” will be a litmus test for the industry’s willingness to engage with complex themes related to aging and identity. If this trend is allowed to continue unchecked, it could have far-reaching implications for the types of stories that are told on television in the years to come.

The stage is set for a fascinating exploration of what it means to grow old in America. Will “Hilda! (In Lights!)” truly challenge our assumptions about aging, or will it merely perpetuate tired stereotypes? Only time – and ratings data – will tell.