Stop Asking Me to Sound 'Younger': The Ageism Faced by Female Voice Over Artists from Jodi Brown's blog

If you think the issue of ageism in the workplace is confined to the realm of traditional jobs, you're sorely mistaken. The voice-over industry is far from immune, with female artists often on the receiving end of insidious ageist comments. "Can you sound younger?"—a question so commonly asked it's become a cliché. But let's be clear: this cliché is a symptom of a much deeper societal issue that's as damaging as it is pervasive.

The voice-over industry seems to have an unwavering obsession with youth when it comes to british female voice over. We’re not talking about roles specifically designed for young characters; this is about the blatant disregard for mature female voices in projects that have no age-specific requirements. Why are mature, experienced voices, with their unique timbres and nuances, so frequently sidelined?

There’s no way to sugarcoat this: the industry's obsession with 'youthful' female voices is both sexist and ageist. When was the last time you heard of male voice-over artists being passed over for not sounding 'young' enough? The double standard is glaring, and it's high time we address it as what it is—an unacceptable form of discrimination.

With age comes experience—rich, multi-faceted experience that adds depth and authenticity to voice-over work. The bias towards younger voices doesn't just erase older women from the narrative; it also devalues the skill and artistry that come with years of honing one's craft. This is not just a disservice to the artists; it's an impoverishment of the industry as a whole.

Let's not kid ourselves; this issue isn't confined to the voice-over industry. It's a microcosm of larger societal norms that insist women become less valuable as they age. The voice-over industry, with its undue emphasis on youth, amplifies these harmful messages, making it not just a participant but also a perpetuator of systemic ageism and sexism.

How much longer will talented, capable female voice-over artists have to alter their voices to fit a narrow and discriminatory standard? When will the industry break free from the shackles of ageist and sexist conventions? To those in charge—casting directors, producers, and agents—it's time to reassess your biases. You're not just choosing a voice; you're choosing to either uphold or dismantle systemic discrimination.

'Can you sound younger?' is not an innocuous question; it's a glaring red flag that signifies an industry—and a society—in urgent need of reform. Female voice-over artists, regardless of their age, bring invaluable qualities to the table: authenticity, versatility, and a wealth of experience that cannot and should not be overlooked.

It's high time we extend the conversation about ageism to include spaces that may seem 'niche' but are impactful nonetheless. Let's not wait another day to start treating female voice-over artists with the dignity, respect, and opportunities they unequivocally deserve.