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From punchline to plotline: Menopause is finally having its pop culture moment
🇸🇬 Singapore /Culture & Society

From punchline to plotline: Menopause is finally having its pop culture moment

From CNA · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Sources not specified Context piece
  • Menopause is increasingly being depicted and discussed in popular culture, moving beyond outdated stereotypes.
  • Celebrities and recent TV shows and films are openly addressing the topic, raising awareness among wider audiences.
  • This cultural shift reflects a growing mainstream conversation about women's midlife health and experiences.

Menopause is shedding its long-held stigma and emerging as a prominent theme in pop culture, marking a significant shift from its previous portrayal as a source of crankiness or a "lady parts problem." Historically, shows like "That '70s Show" depicted menopause with dismissive and negative language, while "The Golden Girls" approached it primarily for comedic effect rather than awareness.

that horrible thing that’s taken over your mother

— That '70s ShowAn example of dismissive language used to describe menopause in the past.

Recent years have seen a surge in open conversations, fueled by celebrities like Naomi Watts, Halle Berry, and Oprah Winfrey sharing their personal experiences. Documentaries such as "The M Factor: Shredding The Silence On Menopause" (2024) explore its impact on careers and highlight gaps in medical education. Furthermore, menopause is now woven into narratives of shows not solely focused on the life stage, reaching diverse audiences.

Notable examples include Kristin Scott Thomas's viral monologue in the British comedy-drama "Fleabag" (2019), where she described menopause as "horrendous" yet "magnificent." The animated series "Big Mouth" introduced the "Menopause Banshee" character. More recently, British TV series like "The Change" (2023) and "Riot Women" (2025) center on women navigating menopause, addressing symptoms like hot flushes and unexpected periods. Apple TV's "Your Friends & Neighbours" incorporated menopause into its second season, with actress Amanda Peet praising its inclusion.

horrendous

— Kristin Scott ThomasDescribing menopause in her viral monologue from the TV show 'Fleabag'.

Beyond the screen, the cultural conversation continues. English singer Sophie Ellis-Bextor's 2025 album "Perimenopop" playfully acknowledges her life stage. These cultural touchstones collectively contribute to a broader mainstream understanding and acceptance of menopause, moving it from a taboo subject to a recognized aspect of women's lives.

the change is coming

— Menopause BansheeA character in the animated series 'Big Mouth' warning about menopause.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by CNA. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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