Beard Quote by Terry Wogan
“It's a pity. There's no reason why older women shouldn't be presenting programmes in the same way older men do. The only thing you can say is that it's a visual medium, and once you're beginning to shamble on set and show the old wrinkles, it might be time to stop. Of course, you might do what Jeremy Paxman does and cover it all up with a beard.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: BBC Radio 2, 1994
The speaker suggests that age should not limit women from presenting, but visual appearance may pressure older women to retire earlier than men.
In simple terms: Age shouldn't stop women from TV, but looks matter.
Challenge visual bias in media.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- TV presenting
- career longevity
- age-related hiring
- public perception
- media policy
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can media value experience over appearance?
- What policies could reduce age bias on screen?
Older women may face pressure to hide age, which can limit authentic representation.