South Africa-born star Charlize Theron has spoken out about the ongoing challenges women leads face in the action-film industry.

In a candid interview with The New York Times, Charlize Theron highlighted Hollywood’s reluctance to back action films with women at the forefront. This is especially if the movies don’t perform well at the box office.

“Action films with female leads don’t get greenlit as much as the ones with male leads,” Theron said. “What frustrates me is that guys will get a free ride.

When women do this and the movie maybe doesn’t hit fully, they don’t necessarily get a chance again”, according to Deadline.

She pointed out the double standard where male actors often receive multiple opportunities despite a string of underperforming action films.

However, women are judged more harshly and risk losing future chances.

Charlize Theron’s remarks resonate deeply in South Africa, where her success has inspired many young women to pursue careers in film and beyond.

Her experience shines a light on the systemic gender bias that still permeates global film industries, including Hollywood.

The actress also opened up about why she now performs fewer stunts. Years of injuries have taken their toll.

She recalled a severe accident during the filming of Aeon Flux when she landed badly on her neck.

Since then, she has undergone multiple surgeries on her neck, elbows, shoulder, thumb, and other injuries, including fractures.

“My adult woman brain is like, ‘No thank you. I’m OK not doing that,’” she said, explaining her decision to avoid dangerous stunts.

Charlize Theron also welcomed the Oscars’ recent decision to introduce an Achievement in Stunt Design category starting in 2027.

“It’s about time we recognise those performers,” she said, emphasising the vital role stunt artists play in bringing action characters to life.

Her Old Guard 2 co-star, Uma Thurman, who returns to action after more than two decades, agreed with Theron’s practical approach to physical roles.

Both actresses are aware of the scrutiny women-led action films face and the risks studios hesitate to take.

Charlize Theron’s insights serve as a reminder of the hurdles women still face in the entertainment industries worldwide. Yet, her career also exemplifies resilience and the power of breaking barriers.

As she put it, “It’s not a risk that studios want to take, but they’ll take it many times on the same guy who might have a string of action movies that did not do so well.”

This frank observation calls for change and greater equity in film production decisions.

Theron’s voice adds to a growing global conversation about gender equality in cinema, encouraging South Africans and beyond to support and demand more wonma-led stories in all genres.