Jane Seymour Shares Insights on Embracing Sexuality in Film for Women Over 50

Jane Seymour; Seymour in ‘Wedding Crashers’ in 2005.
Credit: Richard Cartwright/New Line/Avery Pix/Kobal/Shutterstock

Jane Seymour Reflects on Breaking Ground for Women in Film

• Jane Seymour discusses her impact on the portrayal of women over 50 and sexuality in film.
• She notably went topless in the 2005 film Wedding Crashers, asserting women’s sexual agency.
• This year marks the 20th anniversary of the acclaimed comedy.

As the iconic comedy Wedding Crashers celebrates its 20th anniversary, actress Jane Seymour revisits her groundbreaking role as Kathleen Cleary, a seductress in her early 50s. At 74, Seymour reflects on how her portrayal helped liberate the depiction of sexuality for women over 50 in the film industry.

Speaking in an exclusive interview, Seymour recalled her initial hesitation about taking on the role—stepping away from her previous characterization as the “oldest virgin on television” in Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman. “I thought, ‘I can’t do this. I just did Dr. Quinn,'” she said. Her then-husband, James Keach, echoed the sentiment, warning that her fan base might disapprove.

Despite her concerns, Seymour recognized the opportunity. “I have to play this role. I just know exactly what I’d do with it, and this is hilarious and iconic,” she remarked.

Jane Seymour and Owen Wilson in ‘Wedding Crashers’ (2005).
Credit: Moviestore/Shutterstock

At 53, Seymour’s portrayal of Kathleen, who famously seduces Owen Wilson’s character, spotlighted the allure and sexual agency of older women. “How funny is that? That I was previously known as the oldest virgin on television in Dr. Quinn,” she said, highlighting the contrast of her earlier roles. “In life, when women turn 50, they pretty much go under a rock and are ignored. And Kathleen was not going to be ignored.”

The role shifted the trajectory of Seymour’s career, paving the way for new opportunities. She remarked, “I’m still playing characters like Kathleen who proudly embrace their sexuality.” Currently, she stars in the Acorn TV series Harry Wild, where her character, a newly retired literature professor, continues to explore romance and intrigue.

Jane Seymour in August 2025.
Credit: Jason Mendez/Getty

Commenting on her character, Seymour noted, “She has her own way of doing things. She never got married, and that’s part of her character. She’s also intelligent. And I think it’s inspiring to women to see that you can have romance later in life.”

As she approaches her 75th birthday, Seymour expresses youthful energy. “I have to actually wake up in the morning and remind myself how old I am because inside of me, I still feel like I’m about 40,” she explained. “I work 12-, 14-hour days on sets and keep up with everyone. I think it keeps me young.” Seymour also emphasizes her active role in her children’s social circles and her position within the family, stating, “I’ve never been put in the group of, ‘Oh, now you are an older person.’ Quite the opposite.”