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There is a groundswell of support in defence of acclaimed star Catherine Zeta-Jones following she faced scrutiny across platforms about her appearance during a high-profile event.

She appeared at an industry gathering in LA on 9 November where an online segment featuring her role in the latest the 'Wednesday' show was eclipsed because of discussion focusing on her looks.

A Chorus of Defence

Aged 58, Laura White, called the online criticism "utter foolishness", adding that "males escape such a timeline imposed on women".

"Males escape this sell-by/use-by date which women face," stated Laura White.

Writer and commentator aged 50, Sali Hughes, said in contrast to men, women were criticized growing older and Zeta-Jones should be free to appear in any way she chooses.

Digital Backlash

During the interview, also shared to Facebook and had millions of views, Zeta-Jones, originally from Swansea, discussed her enjoyment in delving into her character, Morticia Addams, in the new episodes.

But a large portion of the numerous remarks focused on her years and were negative towards her appearance.

The negative remarks sparked a broad defence of Zeta-Jones, including a viral video from one Facebook user which said: "People criticize women when they get cosmetic procedures and bully them when they don't have sufficient procedures."

Commenters also came to her defence, one stating: "It's called growing older naturally and she looks beautiful."

Others described her as "stunning" and "lovely", while someone else said that "she appears her age - which is simply reality."

A Statement Arrival

She appeared at the studio earlier without any makeup as a demonstration and to highlight there was no set "template" of how a female in midlife ought to appear.

Like many women her age, she stated she "takes care of herself" not to appear younger but to feel "improved" and look "vibrant".

"Ageing is a gift and if we can age the best we can, this is what really matters," she continued.

Ms White stated that men were not judged by the same appearance ideals, adding "people don't ask the age of Tom Cruise, George Clooney or Tom Jones might be - they simply look 'fantastic'."

She said that became part of the motivation she entered Miss Great Britain's category for women over 45, to prove that midlife women are still here" and "retain their appeal".

Unfair Scrutiny

Sali Hughes, an author and presenter of Welsh origin, stated that although the actor is "stunning" this is "beside the point", stating further she deserves to be free to look in any way she chooses without her years facing scrutiny.

She said the online abuse proved no woman was "protected" and that females should not face the "constant narrative" which says they are not good enough or of the right age - an issue that is "galling, no matter the individual targeted".

When asked if men face equivalent judgment, she said "no, never", adding females are criticized just for having the "audacity" to be present on the internet while aging.

A Double Bind

Despite the wellness sector promoting "longevity", the author stated women were still face criticism regardless of if they grow older without intervention or opted for procedures including cosmetic surgery or fillers.

"Should you grow older gracefully, commenters state you ought to try harder; if you get treatments, you are criticized for not aging gracefully enough," she remarked further.