What do Sudhanshu Pandey, Manav Gohil, Shabir Ahluwalia, Siddhaanth Surryavanshi, Rajesh Shringarpure and Amar Upadhyay have in common? They are all in their 40s and have been cast as lead in TV shows. While the audiences are enjoying a nuanced performance, actors enjoying an impactful role, the situation is a win-win for all. Sure, these established actors do face the question of ageism and their acting career but they are making the most of it. Pandey, 46, of Anupama fame, says, “I think 40 is the new 30. If you ask me, all the actors in their 40s are looking their best, working and acting their best. Everything has become so much better in their 40s. I think 40 is a new beginning of life and it is being appreciated and loved by audiences. Most people following me on Instagram are between 18 and 35.”Often the small screen has its share of young love stories, which means offers and roles on TV are few and far between for senior actors. Having played the lead in many serials, Gohil, 46, admits that things have changed for 40+ actors in the recent past. He explains, “On TV, it is rare to get a well-developed character in good show. Mature love stories need gravitas and on TV, there are only a few such opportunities. I have never enjoyed working more on a show as I did on ShaadiMubaarak. I feel I am my best in my 40s as I’ve never looked so good, felt light and energetic and in control in my craft. I think, 40s is the greatest time for me to work and enjoy as an actor. Had I done this show in my 20s or 30s, it would have been different but in my 40s, it is so much more powerful.”