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Females are uniting in defence of acclaimed star Zeta-Jones after she encountered scrutiny on social media about her appearance during a industry function.

The actor was present at a promotional function in Hollywood recently during which a social media clip featuring her character in the new series of the 'Wednesday' show became dominated because of comments concerning her age.

Widespread Backing

This year's Miss Great Britain Classic winner, Laura White, described the negative reaction "complete nonsense", adding that "males escape this sell-by/use-by date imposed on women".

"Men don't have such a timeline which women face," said the pageant winner.

Writer and commentator aged 50, Sali Hughes, commented in contrast to men, women were criticized for ageing and Zeta-Jones should be able to appear as she wishes.

Digital Backlash

During the interview, which was also posted on Facebook and attracted millions of views, the actor, hailing from Wales, discussed how much she enjoyed delving into her role, the Addams Family matriarch, in the latest season.

However a significant number of the hundreds of comments zeroed in on her years and were disparaging towards her looks.

This criticism ignited significant support for the actor, featuring a viral video from one Facebook user which declared: "There is criticism for females for having too much work done and attack them for not having sufficient procedures."

Others also spoke up for her, one stating: "It's called aging naturally and she looks stunning."

Some called her as "gorgeous" and "very attractive", and one comment read that "her appearance reflects her years - that is the natural process."

A Statement Arrival

Ms White arrived for her interview recently with a bare face to make a statement and to highlight that there is no fixed "template" for what a woman in midlife is supposed to look.

Like many women of her years, she said she "maintains her wellbeing" not for a youthful appearance but so she feels "well" and be "in good health".

"Ageing is an honour and provided we do it gracefully, that's what truly counts," she continued.

She contended that males are not subject to identical beauty standards, stating "nobody scrutinizes how old famous men are - they only look 'wonderful'."

She explained it was one of the reasons for entering the competition for women over 45, to "show that females of a certain age are still here" and "still have it".

The Core Issue

Hughes, an author and presenter from Wales, said that while the actor is "stunning" it was "not the point", noting she ought to be free to appear however she liked without her years coming under examination.

She stated the social media vitriol showed not a single woman is "immune" and that it is unfair for women to endure the "ongoing theme" that they are not good enough or youthful enough - an issue that is "maddening, regardless of the individual targeted".

When asked if males encounter identical criticism, she said "no, never", noting women were targeted merely for having the "audacity" to live online while growing older.

A Double Bind

Even with the wellness sector emphasizing "youthful longevity", the author stated females are still criticised regardless of if they grow older without intervention or underwent treatments such as cosmetic surgery or injections.

"Should you grow older naturally, people say you should do more; if you get work done, you are criticized for not aging gracefully enough," she added.