Aging stars and fresh faces clash in Hollywood

Sam Nivola argues that cosmetic procedures let older actors play younger roles, narrowing chances for rising talent.

Plastic Surgery Keeps Aging Stars Playing Younger

Sam Nivola, known for his work in The White Lotus, says older actors who undergo plastic surgery can look younger and continue to perform in younger roles. He argues this trend makes it harder for new actors to break into the industry, and notes his own experience with typecasting after The White Lotus. He points to his mother's project Jay Kelly, co-written by Emily Mortimer, which centers on an aging actor and highlights the pressures on longevity in acting. The discussion is part of a broader debate that also involves Timothée Chalamet, cited by Nivola as a rare example of a modern star who remains widely recognized without conforming to a traditional young, muscular star image. Jamie Lee Curtis has also weighed in, telling The Guardian that plastic surgery has eroded natural appearances and that AI filters amplify this shift.

The argument pivots on a simple tension: should talent be defined by the calendar or by the craft. When aging actors maintain the look of youth, casting decisions can favor familiarity over fresh perspectives, potentially slowing the rise of new voices. Yet the counterforce is strong: actors, studios, and audiences often want recognizable stars, and the market rewards proven names. This debate touches on gendered beauty standards, the role of technology in shaping perception, and how audiences connect with authenticity.

Highlights

Talent endures when the door stays open to new generations.