The 195+ Best TV Shows With Female Leads
Some of the best shows have strong female leads - and even when they're showing their softer side, TV shows with female leads stand out in a sea of guy-oriented shows. While society has by no means reached actual equality, in the last few years television viewers have started to see an uptick in female-driven television series hitting the airwaves. These days it's easy for audiences to watch action or serious drama series with female leads in TV shows. This list ranks the best female-led television programs, both past and present - from The Mary Tyler Moore Show to Inside Amy Schumer and everything in between - and needs your votes.
Women in TV have evolved incredibly over the decades. From the dutiful housewives, damsels in distress and temptress femme fatales of yesteryear to the flawed secret agents, high-powered attorneys, and twenty-somethings figuring it all out of today, the age of the Internet has allowed us to gain access to a whole host of women-driven dramas, comedies, and action sci-fi series. This list shows off the best women in TV series, from the black-and-white era to shows that are still airing new episodes today.
Whether you enjoy the murderous action of Killing Eve, the noir/teen-drama of Veronica Mars, or the biting satirical comedy of Veep, this list has all the top female-led TV shows. What are television's best TV shows with female leads? Vote up the female-lead shows you think are the best and see where your favorites rank.
- 1Sarah Michelle Gellar, Nicholas Brendon, Alyson Hannigan
- Premiered: March 10, 1997
Buffy the Vampire Slayer, a supernatural drama series with a leading woman, features the fierce Sarah Michelle Gellar as Buffy Summers. As a perennial favorite, this captivating show embodies female empowerment through its titular heroine as she combats evil forces while navigating high-school life.
- 2Mariska Hargitay, Ice-T, Kelli Giddish
- Premiered: September 20, 1999
Law & Order: Special Victims Unit showcases the relentless dedication and compassion of Mariska Hargitay's Olivia Benson. As a devoted police officer, she skillfully handles sensitive cases with empathy and grit, inspiring countless strong leading women in television.
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- Premiered: March 19, 2023
- 3Bea Arthur, Rue McClanahan, Betty White
- Premiered: September 14, 1985
The Golden Girls, a heartwarming sitcom, highlights the friendships of four elderly women, with iconic talents such as Bea Arthur, Betty White, Rue McClanahan, and Estelle Getty. Blanche, Dorothy, Rose, and Sophia elicit laughter and touching moments while breaking age stereotypes and paving the way for future female-driven shows.
- 4Emily Deschanel, David Boreanaz, T.J. Thyne
- Premiered: September 13, 2005
Bones, an engaging crime procedural, stars the brilliant Emily Deschanel as Dr. Temperance Brennan, a forensic anthropologist. Through her keen intellect and strong personality, she captivates the audience as she solves murder cases with a unique blend of science and intuition.
- 5Lucille Ball, Desi Arnaz, Vivian Vance
- Premiered: October 15, 1951
I Love Lucy, the classic television staple, stars Lucille Ball as the inimitable Lucy Ricardo, who entertains viewers with her hilarious misadventures and unmatched comedic talent. Her zany antics and electric presence set the standard for leading women in comedy.
- 6Kristen Bell, Enrico Colantoni, Jason Dohring
- Premiered: September 22, 2004
Veronica Mars, led by Kristen Bell, presents a witty and resourceful teenage private investigator with a passion for solving mysteries. Delving into her life and surprising case resolutions keeps fans engaged while admiring her determination and strength.
