Lady Gaga Calls It Insane to Consider Women in Their Late 30s “Old”

American pop icon Lady Gaga has publicly criticized ageism in the music industry, particularly within the pop genre, calling it “insane” to label women in their late 30s as “old.” The 38-year-old singer made this bold statement while accepting the prestigious Innovator Award at the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards, held at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on Monday, March 17, 2025.

In her acceptance speech, Lady Gaga addressed the industry’s tendency to dismiss women as they age, a topic she has long been passionate about. “It’s crazy that people consider women in their late 30s as old for a pop star,” she said, urging a change in how the industry perceives age and talent. Gaga’s remarks were a powerful stand against the unrealistic expectations placed on women in the entertainment world, challenging norms that often marginalize older female artists.

Meanwhile, at the same event, Nigerian superstars Burna Boy and Tems were contenders for the inaugural World Artist of the Year award. Despite their global impact, the duo lost out to South Africa’s rising star, Tyla, who took home the coveted prize.

Lady Gaga’s bold remarks have sparked a wider conversation about ageism in music, as her influence continues to inspire discussions about diversity and inclusion in the entertainment industry.

“I don’t know totally how to think about this because winning an award honouring my entire career at 38 years old is a hard thing to get my head around,” Gaga said.

“The world might consider a woman in her late 30’s old for a pop star, which is insane, but I promise you I’m just getting warmed up,” she added.

As the conversation about age and talent evolves, her voice remains a powerful advocate for the change that many believe is long overdue.

Stay tuned for more updates from the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards and Lady Gaga’s continued fight against ageism in the music industry.