Lea Thompson, renowned for her role in the iconic ‘Back to the Future’ franchise, has taken a proactive approach to her career as she navigates the challenges of ageing in the film industry. Aware of the difficulties faced by women over 50 in securing substantial acting roles, Thompson opted to diversify her talents by stepping into the world of directing, ensuring her continued relevance in Hollywood.
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In a recent interview with Woman’s World, the 64-year-old actress candidly discussed her motivations for transitioning to directing after two decades in front of the camera. “Only a small percentage of roles in Hollywood go to women over 50, and out of that, the best parts are typically awarded to those with the most accolades,” Thompson revealed. She recognised that many available roles did not align with her artistic desires, prompting her to seek alternative avenues in the entertainment industry.
Thompson decided to branch out into directing with the Hallmark TV movie series, ‘Jane Doe,’ where she initially starred in the lead role. This early opportunity allowed her to secure her first directing credit in 2006 with ‘Jane Doe: The Harder They Fall.’ Since then, she has broadened her repertoire, directing popular television shows such as ‘Schooled,’ ‘Mom,’ ‘The Goldbergs,’ and ‘Will Trent.’
Despite her resolve to forge a directing career, Thompson continues to act, appearing in productions like ‘Switched at Birth,’ ‘The Chicken Sisters,’ and ‘Scorpion.’ She articulates a familiar sentiment among women in the entertainment industry: the belief that one is often overshadowed by the perceived expertise of others. However, Thompson has now embraced her longevity and wealth of experience. “I realised that in having done this for over 40 years, I already knew a lot,” she reflected.
Thompson describes her role as a director as a stimulating challenge, likening each project to a “brain teaser.” She also revealed her desire to positively influence the next generation of filmmakers. “It’s a chance to give back instead of getting bitter because the parts aren’t so good,” she explained. Committed to mentorship, she aims to guide younger talent in honing their craft. Thompson believes it’s essential for seasoned professionals to share their knowledge and insights as they advance in their careers.
In recent years, the landscape of Hollywood has begun to shift towards increased representation and opportunities for older female artists. Despite the odds, Thompson remains steadfast in her love for acting while enthusiastically embracing her role as a director. “I still love acting, and I feel incredibly lucky to be able to act and direct,” she stated, conveying her ongoing passion for both facets of her career.
Ultimately, Lea Thompson’s journey reflects a broader narrative of resilience and adaptability among women in the entertainment industry. By taking the reins of her artistic destiny, she has instilled a sense of agency within herself, paving the way for future generations to flourish in an industry that can often be unyielding toward ageing talent. Her story serves as an inspiring reminder that creativity knows no age, and with determination, one can carve out a fulfilling and diverse career in Hollywood.