Halle Berry Critiques Governor Newsom at Dealbook Summit

Halle Berry recently took the stage at the Dealbook Summit to talk about the perceptions of women in Hollywood and society at large. Her speech highlighted the diminishing value placed on women, particularly as they get older. It seems she really struck a chord with the audience, as her comments about California Governor Gavin Newsom elicited gasps.

“At this stage in my life, I feel like I have zero to give,” Berry remarked candidly. She went on to criticize Newsom, stating, “In my great state of California, my own Governor Gavin Newsom has vetoed a menopause bill for not one, but two years in a row. But that’s okay; he won’t be governor forever, and perhaps he shouldn’t be our next president either, considering how he’s devalued us and ignored half the population—women.” That last line, well, it certainly packed a punch.

She referenced AB 432, a bill introduced by Rep. Rebecca Bauer-Kahan, meant to enhance menopause care by encouraging health plans to provide recommendations for menopause-related treatments. It also included training requirements for healthcare workers on this subject. Despite its intentions, Newsom vetoed the bill again in October.

Interestingly, Newsom has expressed he’s seriously contemplating a presidential run in 2028. He was also present at the Summit, maybe listening a bit too closely.

Berry, who is nearing 60, spoke about her own experiences regarding society’s views on aging. “In 2025, it feels like there’s still so much to unpack, especially for women like me who are approaching middle age,” she said. “In this culture, I’m considered past my prime. Women my age start becoming less visible—in Hollywood, in workplaces, and even online.” It’s somewhat disheartening when you think about it.

The actress continued, reflecting on the pressures faced by women to appear eternally youthful. “We’re pushed toward drastic physical changes just to chase an elusive idea of youth,” she noted. “It’s almost like, if you don’t look younger than your actual age, you’re somehow falling short of the mark.” It’s all about the standards we’re expected to meet, and that’s a heavy burden.

Berry also opened up about her childhood in Cleveland, where she endured bullying. She recounted a particularly painful memory of being beaten by classmates. “I picked myself up shirtless from the gutter as they laughed,” she recalled. “It was humiliating to allow myself to be treated that way. But I decided then that I wouldn’t let it happen again. From that point on, I vowed never to be a victim.” It’s a powerful message about resilience and self-advocacy.