Sienna Miller Speaks on Misogyny Toward Older Mothers

LONDON, England — Actress Sienna Miller is addressing the societal double standards faced by women who choose to become mothers later in life. In a recent interview, Miller discussed her experiences as an older mother, particularly following the birth of her second daughter with boyfriend Oli Green in 2023.

n

Miller described the judgment often directed at older mothers as “misogynistic” and “anti-feminist,” stating, “I think there’s a whole load of noise and people have a lot to say, and it’s incredibly gendered and unbelievably misogynistic and anti-feminist. It’s insane.” She encouraged women to embrace motherhood regardless of age, emphasizing that her experiences have made her a better parent. “If your body is capable of it, have the baby. Have a wonderful baby. And by the way, I’m a better mother now, and it’s a much more grounded experience,” she said.

n

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), women who become pregnant at 35 or older are categorized as having “advanced maternal age.” Complications such as high blood pressure, preeclampsia, and increased risks of miscarriage and stillbirth are more prevalent in older pregnancies. However, many women in this age bracket have healthy pregnancies.

n

Miller, who also has a 12-year-old daughter, Marlowe, with ex-partner Tom Sturridge, highlighted the inconsistent standards between older men and women regarding parenthood. She pointed out that actors Al Pacino and Robert De Niro welcomed children in their 80s without facing significant scrutiny from the public. “And no one has anything to say about — and I love these people, and they’re friends — Al Pacino and Robert De Niro having kids in their 80s,” Miller remarked. “Forget about your age! It’s irrelevant. It’s absolutely irrelevant.”

n

In a previous interview, Miller expressed her desire to provide Marlowe with a sibling, reflecting on the 12-year age gap. “I felt so bad that Marlowe didn’t have a little partner in crime,” she said. “So I became that for her. I think I tried to compensate for every bit that she was lacking.” By openly discussing the challenges and triumphs of being an older mother, Miller hopes to contribute to the growing conversation about age and motherhood.