Andie MacDowell has backtracked on her comments that older women aren't neglected in Hollywood - insisting the U.S. movie industry is obsessed with youth.

Earlier this year (09) the Four Weddings and a Funeral star was adamant there are still many challenging roles available for women in their 40s and 50s.

She told reporters, "Films have changed a lot. I think women are finally able to get older and be sexy just like men."

But in an interview on Thursday (18Jun09) the star made it clear she is concerned with the way studio bosses try to avoid casting middle-aged actresses.

She says, "In America, there's such a hunger for young people, so you get the young up-and-coming star. And then it becomes a time period when they really don't know what to do with you or how to use you."

However, the 51-year-old is hoping to land grittier parts as she gets older - and urges A-list leading ladies not to pine for the days when they were the hottest thing in Tinseltown.

She adds, "It changes, I think, after 50 - then you become - 'I'm the mother of the 20-year-old'. So I'm hoping there's going to be a shift again and I'll work more.

"I think you have to stay open and flexible and look for opportunities and not be arrogant. You're so used to being the lead or the hot thing. I think a lot of people get stuck in that moment."