Popular Japanese actress, Naoko Iijima, 57, has made headlines following her appearance in a new TV commercial donning a school uniform. The entertainment icon continues to defy ageism, igniting conversations about youthfulness and longevity across the nation. The particular commercial and its release date have yet to be announced.

In Japan, emphasis on youth and beauty is prevalent within the entertainment industry. The appearance of an elder actress in a school uniform not only challenges the traditional image of schoolgirls in the media but also touches on the celebration of age and longevity, a factor highly valued in Japan.

Comparable to the U.S or E.U, Hollywood and European cinemas have also seen increased visibility of ageing actresses in bold roles. Though ageism and typecasting are significant issues, there is a growing trend toward more diversified representation in the media.