Famous actresses in their 40s

It used to be a sad fact that in Hollywood, once a woman was over a certain ageshe would go from starring in lead roles to being sidelined to a supporting role playing someone’s mother — but not any more.

As these beautiful, talented and successful actresses in their 40s are proving, life truly blossoms in your fifth decade of life. Aside from getting past the drama and indecision of your 20s and 30s, your 40s is when you truly start to feeling comfortable in your body, are at ease with your flaws and can shine your brightest.

Just like Drew Barrymore, who — once a troubled child star — now has her own make-up line, her own chat show, stars in much-loved sitcoms like Netflix’s The Santa Clarita Diet and has a legion of loyal social media fans.

Or Keeley Hawes, who, after an initial hit of fame starring on Spooks early on in her career, has since carved a name for herself in her 40s playing a range of gripping TV roles in The Durrells, The Bodyguard, Finding Alice and It’s A Sin. The British actress is currently one of the most in-demand actors in the business.

As talented, beautiful, successful and inspiring celebs like Kerry Washington, Reese Witherspoon and Mindy Kaling prove — life really does start at 40.