TV Host Slams Media for Objectifying Older Women

Lital Shemesh, a media personality and host on Channel 14, has launched a strong criticism against the entertainment magazine "mako celebrities" from Keshet 12. Shemesh shared a screenshot on Instagram of an item focusing on actress and model Mali Levi, accompanied by sharp critique of the media's trend to exclusively focus on the age and appearance of women in the industry.

The outrage stems from the repeated emphasis on the physical appearance of female stars over 40, as seen in headlines like "Mali Levi in hot photos at 46" and "You won't believe how Sandi Bar looks at her age in a swimsuit." Shemesh questioned why entertainment magazines highlight sexuality and the body while ignoring the professional, educational, and personal achievements of the women featured.

"Will they ever do stories about 'older' women and marvel at their success? At their intellect? Their academic degrees? The families they've proudly built?" Shemesh wrote. "Is the only way for someone to remain relevant and get covers and features to be an attractive piece of meat?"

Beyond criticizing the industry, Shemesh also pointed fingers at the women managing these media outlets. "Why do women who usually run these magazines continue to encourage this objectification?" she asked, attacking what she perceives as female complicity in perpetuating these demanding and objectifying norms.

Shemesh's remarks reignite public debate about the entertainment industry's treatment of mature women. Her central argument is that the media continues to entrench a problematic standard where a woman's value and media relevance are primarily measured by her appearance and sexuality, even when she has a rich career and numerous achievements.