Amanda Peet Says Women Going Through Menopause Are Often ‘Invisible’: ‘They’re Sexless or Sidelined’ (Exclusive)

**Amanda Peet Embraces Menopause in Groundbreaking Role on ‘Your Friends & Neighbours’**

Amanda Peet has expressed her satisfaction with the portrayal of women experiencing menopause in the second season of the Apple TV series, ‘Your Friends & Neighbours.’ At a recent event celebrating the show, Peet discussed her role as Mel Cooper, a therapist grappling with the challenges of perimenopause, while also reflecting on her own personal experiences with the transition.

Speaking exclusively to PEOPLE, Peet, who is 54 years old, noted that taking on this character has been a “cathartic” experience, especially as she finds herself navigating her own menopausal journey. “It was very cathartic for me to be going through menopause myself and then trying to behave and then going to work and having [show creator Jonathan] Tropper write me these scenes where I just sort of go off the rails,” she explained.

Perimenopause signifies the period leading up to menopause, during which the body begins to undergo significant hormonal changes. Peet elaborated on her character’s struggles with not only physical symptoms but also emotional turbulence, describing her character’s experiences as a mix of anger and confusion.

Peet disclosed that she often grapples with what she termed “age dysmorphia,” finding it difficult to reconcile her current age with her perception of herself. “I think you freeze at 27. You cannot really deeply, you cannot really come to terms with the fact that you’re above the age of 27,” she shared. This sense of disconnect has left her feeling incredulous at times about being 54, a realization that continues to surprise her.

The actress also highlighted the prevailing stigmas surrounding menopause. Historically, women experiencing this transition have often been portrayed as “invisible or sexless,” sidelined in narratives that fail to recognise their complexity, vibrancy, and sexuality. “It’s very fun that Tropper wrote someone who’s actually experiencing menopause and is not completely overlooked and who’s still having sex while dealing with it,” she remarked, appreciating the more nuanced portrayal of women in this life stage.

In this new season of ‘Your Friends & Neighbours,’ Peet’s character is not only dealing with personal turmoil but also contributes to the series’ narrative surrounding her family dynamics. The storyline features Andrew Cooper, played by Jon Hamm, further entangled in an unexpected life as a suburban thief. However, jeopardy arises with the introduction of a new neighbour, adding tension to the established order of the community.

Peet’s perspective on menopause in the series represents a significant shift in media portrayals of women’s health and personal experiences. Instead of showcasing it as a negative phase, the show works towards normalising the conversation around menopause, giving visibility to women’s diverse experiences. With episodes airing every Friday on Apple TV, the series remains a pertinent commentary on contemporary issues faced by women.

As she continues to embody a role that resonates with her personal life, Amanda Peet is not only shattering the stereotypes associated with menopause but also paving the way for broader discussions on women’s health in mainstream media. As her character navigates such personal and societal challenges, audiences are also encouraged to engage in a dialogue about the realities of menopause, allowing for greater understanding and support.

In an industry that often sidelines older women, Peet’s work stands out as a reminder of the importance of representation across all stages of life. Her role serves not just as entertainment but as an essential element in changing narratives surrounding women’s experiences as they age.