Madonna's Stance Against Ageism: For A Woman, "To Age Is A Sin"

Feb 21, 2022 by apost team

Pop icon Madonna has defied the odds and broken boundaries throughout her multi-decade-long career. She is a singer, performer, and a cultural icon. Throughout the 1980s and all the way through to the 2000s, Madonna brought us plenty of hits, defining the course of pop music and ultimately giving her the moniker the “Queen of Pop.”

Madonna was born on Aug. 16, 1958, making her 63 years old today. Originally from Michigan, the aspiring star moved to New York City in the late 1970s to pursue a career in dance before finally finding success as a solo singer. She has since released a plethora of No. 1 hits, including “Like a Virgin,” “Like a Prayer” and “Vogue.”

With each new era, Madonna has proven that she has the ability to constantly reinvent herself, something that has ultimately helped her career trajectory. She has also led countless tours, proving that she is a top-quality performer. 

However, great music and iconic fashionable looks are not the only cultural contributions that the star has given the world. Madonna is also a mother to six children, with a mix of both biological and adopted children, resulting in a diverse and talented family.

Defying the odds as always, Madonna is still following her own path like she has done since she first catapulted to fame. Now, she is also speaking out about what it’s like to be a woman in regards to aging, especially in the entertainment industry. Read on to find out more about Madonna’s personal truths and illustrious achievements.

Defending Her Career

Madonna is no stranger to being in the spotlight. She has released several albums over the years and also has an acting career, with one of her more famous roles being the lead in “Evita.” Her fame has brought her a wide variety of fans, earning the pop star worldwide recognition. However, Madonna has also been on the receiving end of backlash and criticism.

Back in 2015, she shocked the world by giving rapper Drake a kiss during a Coachella performance, according to USA Today. That same year, she received condescending coverage for her flashing stunt at the Grammys. Piers Morgan called out her 2016 “Carpool Karaoke” performance, saying, “You can’t be 58 and dancing around like that. Put it away!”

However, Madonna has called out the double standards in Hollywood regarding men and women aging. She said, “I take care of myself. I’m in good shape.” She also said that she could show off whatever body part she wanted at any age. “It’s sexism,” Madonna added. “It’s ageism. And it’s kind of discrimination.”

The star has called out the way women are treated Hollywood – especially as they age – repeatedly over the years. She once asked why men like Steven Spielberg are never questioned about still wanting to make movies despite being in his 70s.

In 2019, The Sun reported in a similar mindset in reaction to BBC Radio 1’s decision to blacklist Madonna. She had released a comeback single called “Medellin” alongside rapper Maluma, which was a credible Spanish crossover pop song that would fit in with any pop radio station. While some called the song a “gem,” others were not fans.

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Staying Controversial

The Sun also pointed out that if a younger pop star, like Ariana Grande or Taylor Swift, had released the song, it most likely would have been a smash hit. However, older men in the industry still find success, such as 44-year-old Chris Martin of Coldplay, 52-year-old Jay-Z and 79-year-old Paul McCartney.

It was her 2016 Billboard Women in Music Awards speech that showed just how much criticism Madonna had put up with over the years, and she was ready to make a huge stand. Being recognized as Woman of the Year, Madonna explained exactly how it feels to be a woman in music.

Madonna said, “Thank you for acknowledging my ability to continue my career for 34 years in the face of blatant sexism and misogyny and constant bullying and relentless abuse.” She continued, “There are no rules – if you’re a boy. If you’re a girl, you have to play the game. Be what men want you to be. But more importantly, be what women feel comfortable with you being around other men.”

The star gave every woman some unattainable advice, further cementing the unrealistic expectations they receive: “And finally, do not age. Because to age is a sin. You will be criticized, you will be vilified, and you will definitely not be played on the radio.”

While Madonna has already shaped pop music and will undoubtedly be remembered as an icon, she has learned to accept the fact that people think she’s controversial. “People say I’m controversial,” she said. “But I think the most controversial thing I have ever done is to stick around.”

Are you a fan of Madonna? What do you think about her take on aging as a woman? Let us know, and be sure to send this to your family and friends.