The Greatest Female TV Characters Of All Time
Who are the greatest female TV characters of all time? This list includes some of the greatest television characters in history from dramatic shows, sitcoms, and sci-fi series to procedurals and cartoons! For as long as TV has been a medium to reflect social constructs, programs have featured strong women characters as protagonists, partners, and foils for their male counterparts. In comedy shows, characters like Lucy Ricardo, Mary Richards, and Maude Findlay paved the way for Elaine Benes, Roseanne Conner, and Liz Lemon.
Female characters dominate modern genre series, with popular women like Daenerys Targaryen, Dana Scully, Buffy Summers, and Veronica Mars achieving cult-level idolization. You'll recognize these famous names as some of the strongest, funniest, and most relatable in television history.
Vote up the greatest female characters to move them up the list, and add please any that we're missing.
- 1Sarah Michelle Gellar
- Series: Buffy the Vampire Slayer
This young, skilled vampire slayer embodies female empowerment through her courage and resilience in protecting the world from supernatural beings. Throughout the series, she grapples with the pressures of her destiny and personal life, all while showcasing incredible physical and mental strength. Fans admire her emotional growth, unwavering loyalty to friends, and relatable human struggles while dealing with the supernatural.
- 2Maisie Williams
- Series: Game of Thrones
Initially regarded as a stubborn tomboy with a rebellious streak, this character transforms into a fearsome fighter able to survive the harsh world she inhabits. With an unyielding determination, she travels the realm seeking vengeance for her family, armed with her needle-like sword and newfound lethal skills. Her resilience, adaptability, and fierce spirit etch her name into "Greatest Female TV Characters" history.
- 3Emilia Clarke
- Series: Game of Thrones
Nicknamed the "Mother of Dragons," this character evolves from a timid and abused bride into a powerful and compassionate leader. Determined to reclaim her family’s throne, she amasses an army and liberates oppressed people along her journey. Her unwavering belief in herself, compelling leadership skills, and tender heart for the downtrodden make her a beloved icon among fans.
- 4Carolyn Jones
- Series: The Addams Family
The elegant matriarch of a gothic and eccentric family, she exudes the perfect balance of intelligence, grace, and sinister charm. Known for her unflappable demeanor and nonchalant attitude, she navigates the bizarre antics of her family with poise and affection. Her devotion to her husband, strong-willed nature, and unconventional wisdom make her a memorable television character.
- 5Gwendoline Christie
- Series: Game of Thrones
This noble knight defies traditional gender roles and expectations with her incredible combat prowess and imposing stature. Her fierce loyalty to her sworn oaths and her unwavering commitment to honor make her stand out as a symbol of integrity in a morally dubious world. Her complex relationship with other characters and her struggle for respect due to her gender constantly challenge the status quo.
- 6Lynda Carter
- Series: Wonder Woman
This iconic superheroine represents the pinnacle of feminine strength, beauty, and intelligence. Fighting tirelessly for peace, justice, and equality, she embodies the ideal of female empowerment and inspires generations of fans. Her compassionate nature and relentless pursuit of truth showcase a character who champions the best qualities of humanity.
