Television has proved time and time again of its influence. Particularly, the characters we watch on the big screen and find ourselves relating to can have a much bigger impact on our views than we might believe. In celebration of women’s history month, this list depicts a handful of some of the most iconic female characters on television.
- Buffy Summers – Buffy The Vampire Slayer (1997-2003)
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Between juggling school work, her secret nightly routine, and an up-to-date outfit, this protagonist did much more than just kill fang-bearing monsters. And for this, we should applaud her for teaching women of all ages that we are capable of slaying much more than Dracula, and that each waking moment, we are fighters!
- Cristina Yang – Grey’s Anatomy (2005-)
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Portrayed by the ever-talented Sandra Oh, Cristina Yang held a ruthless bark and bite since her first day at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital. Since the show’s progression, alongside the development of her character, these two things never seemed to make a lasting disappearance. To audiences of all genders, her words shone through and touched them deeply.
“Have some fire. Be unstoppable. Be a force of nature.” – Cristina Yang
- Lisa Simpson – The Simpsons (1989-)
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This adorably fierce character we grew up watching with our families could very well be one of the first to openly speak about equality amongst genders and social justice. All while doing that, Lisa Simpson also remains one of the most relatable characters amongst cartoons.
“Why is it when a woman is confident and powerful, they call her a witch?” – Lisa Simpson
- Olivia Pope – Scandal (2012-2018)
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Being a crisis manager for strangers takes much more than a degree and a way with words. Kerry Washington spreads this message loud and clear through her on-screen performance of Olivia Pope and allows her independence to be a beacon for all those watching.
“I am not a toy you can play with when you’re bored or lonely or horny. I am not the girl the guy gets at the end of the movie. I am not a fantasy, if you want me, earn me!” – Olivia Pope
- Michonne – The Walking Dead (2010-)
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Though this character’s incomparable combat against walkers and blunt speech is admirable, so is her brilliance and appeal to ethics. She seeks justice to protect those she loves dearly, all while kicking undead butt in the most graceful way possible.
“Someday you’re gonna be all you’ve got…” – Michonne