For much of cinematic history, famous action roles have been synonymous with male characters, especially on major television networks. Of course there were female-led productions, but the closest audiences came to a female action star was Annie Oakley in 1956. The ’70s offered a renaissance for powerful women in action roles, with shows like Wonder Woman and Charlie’s Angels being big hits of the time. But the truth is that it took some time for projects led by women to become more common.
The 1990s were a turning point for this genre, when the world was introduced to Xena, the Charmed Ones and Buffy Summers. They were all capable female characters who were not only strong individuals but also complex and well-rounded, fully capable of carrying a successful TV show. Since then, viewers have continually tuned in, eager to see their favorite spies, assassins, and protectors doing what they do best in high-octane adventures.
10
Nikita (2010-2013)
Nikita has secrets and agents
Maggie Q plays the eponymous character, a mysterious woman who has escaped from a secret government agency, ready to take revenge. As audiences learn more about the character’s past, they see the grueling training she has undergone and the level of endurance that makes her one of the most formidable agents in her field. She mentors Alex, has a complicated relationship with her fellow agent Michael, and shows her softer side in several flashbacks to her former life with her late fiancé. Overall, Q plays her with a mix of power and fragility that commands the screen.
Based on a French film and subsequent series, this modern retelling aired on the CW. The show lasted 4 seasons, accumulating 78 episodes. It attracted established names such as McG, Melinda Clarke and Devon Sawa, creating a thrilling world of espionage and stunning action. The show was also notable for mixing great stunt work with lots of relationship drama. As the stakes rose, so did the viewer’s devotion to their favorite characters and stories. However, Q was the beating heart of Nikitain every possible way.
9
Blind Spot (2015-2020)
‘Jane Doe’ is tattooed and ready to fight
Blind spotThe most memorable image must be that of Jaimie Alexander in the middle of Times Square, her naked body covered in tattoos. With no memory of who she is and what the body paint means, she instantly hooked viewers who were desperate to get to the bottom of Jane Doe’s mysterious story. As the audience learns more about Alexander’s character, the actress shows her range throughout.
She’s tough when she needs to be, vulnerable while struggling with her past, and can hold her own in a fight. Having originally aired on NBC, Blind spot continues to gain streaming audiences around the world. Seeing the protagonist take on multiple roles, including an FBI analyst and even a former terrorist, kept viewers hooked as they learned more about these mysterious tattoos and what they really mean.
8
Dark Angel (2000-2002)
Dark Angel is not just a bike messenger
Jessica Alba was on the rise when she landed the lead role in this dystopian sci-fi drama. Created by James Cameron, it tells the story of a genetically engineered super soldier, X5-452, or Max. The story deftly jumps between the “present day” and Max’s memories of the Manticore facility where she gained her powers. There is also an excellent “young cast”, with Geneva Locke being the spitting image of Jessica Alba. The overall sense of danger is palpable, with Max compelled to protect her loved ones and help the innocent.
Cameron’s vision and a robust budget make Dark Angel an action-packed visual feast. Additionally, Michael Weathely’s character brings out a more vulnerable and protective side in Max, as he serves as the series’ main love interest. The appearance of Jensen Ackles as her brother Manticore provides an additional layer of trauma for her to unpack. This elegant, though short-lived, series remains influential. Many subsequent shows have attempted to capture the elegant feel, dark atmosphere, and sensual force of Alba’s performance.
7
Agent Carter (2015-2016)
A glimpse into the life of Peggy Carter
Having been introduced as Steve Rogers’ strong love interest in Captain America: First AvengerHayley Atwell’s Peggy Carter navigates life in the 1940s after her “death.” The show came about at a time when MCU TV shows were in their early stages, showing the benefits of giving an interesting secondary character their own story, allowing them to grow and demonstrate the many facets of their personalities. Atwell is a scene-stealer, even when starring opposite Chris Evans and Tommy Lee Jones; when it was her time to shine, she did not disappoint.
The historical setting allows for some poignant points about feminism as well as a film-noir style of action. Additionally, in-universe references will appeal to fans of the MCU but will exist independently of it, allowing new viewers to immerse themselves in Carter’s world. Meanwhile, Atwell is comfortable in this role and it shows. She leads with ease, mixing intelligence with perseverance, spreading her innate charm into every scene. She is a formidable fighter, yet elegant and captivating to watch.
6
Sweet Pea (2024)
How far is too far in Sweetpea?
Having felt invisible and neglected her entire life, Ella Purnell’s Rhiannon finally goes on a hypocritical murder spree in Sweet pea. After the death of his father (and his dog); after the school bully comes back into his life, discovering a mountain of trauma; and after being covered in urine by a man who doesn’t notice her, this well-mannered character transforms before the viewer’s eyes. A thought-provoking series that shows how even the most polite person can be pushed to their limits.
Purnell does an incredible job playing a shy, timid young woman who is too afraid to stand up for herself. Whether by her sister or her terrible co-workers, Rhiannon is constantly getting hit on and can’t do anything about it. When she finally takes control of her life by killing “bad” people, a light goes on. She is stronger, more assertive and even looks different. The premise resonates viscerally with modern viewers, and the series was a critical success in which Purnell delivers a powerful performance that lasts forever.
5
Alias (2001-2006)
Alias shows the many faces of a super spy
The story of double agent Sydney Bristow made Jennifer Garner a star. At the time it premiered, there weren’t many shows focused on female spies, and this was the first to hit that point in such an impactful way. From her many disguises and spectacular fight scenes to her sizzling chemistry with Vaughn, the show had it all. The supporting cast includes names like Victor Gerber and Bradley Cooper, who have complex relationships with the main character, removing layers of her tough facade.
Produced by JJ AbramsIndeed remains one of the most influential spy shows in TV history and has been referenced in many well-known shows and films over the years. Bristow travels the world, faces many powerful adversaries, and handles it all with talent and true bravery. She has been an inspiration to future generations and a model for many spy shows that have come after.
4
Hannah (2019-2021)
Hanna immerses herself in nature
Based on the 2011 film starring Saoirse Ronan, this Amazon Prime production is even grittier and more brutal than its source material. The titular, extraordinary young woman is played by Esme Creed-Miles, whose rawness is perfectly suited to the sparse world in which she lives. It’s a coming-of-age story of sorts, combined with elements of suspense and dark drama.
The focus of this high-concept show is on its realism. The violence does not stop, the plot is impactful and is filmed in an almost naturalistic way. Big names like Dermot Mulroney and Ray Liotta lend their star power to the series, but Creed-Miles never fails to command the screen. It’s a must-see for viewers who are drawn to a complicated protagonist with strength of character and perseverance.
3
Xena: Warrior Princess (1995-2001)
Xena is a hero in every way
Originally a spin-off of Hercules: the legendary journeys, Lucy Lawless burst onto the scene in a way that had never been seen before. Strong physically and mentally, she plays a real mythological heroine in this iconic fantasy series. A bit exaggerated, both historically and geographically fluid, Xena: Warrior Princess does not shy away from total entertainment. It ended up surpassing its predecessor in ratings and reach, and aired on networks in more than 108 countries around the world.
Easily a global phenomenon, Xena: Warrior Princess addressed taboo subjects of the time, such as homosexuality and modern feminism, placing them in a magical world with goddesses and mythological creatures. This inspired a generation of viewers who felt empowered by the show’s message. To this day, people associate the name “Xena” with divine power and femininity.
2
Killing Eve (2018-2022)
Eve and Villanelle have an unparalleled dynamic
The chemistry between Sandra Oh and Jodie Comer is electrifying in the deadly game of cat and mouse seen in Killing Eve. When Villanelle was introduced to the world in her pink Molly Goddard dress and chunky Balenciaga boots, she became a fashion and cultural icon. Her deadpan expression of the wildest lines, the intense look in her eyes, and the ease with which she could extricate herself from a body left her fascinated to watch.
Meanwhile, Eve Polastri (Oh) is much more grounded in reality (at least at first), the audience experiencing all the bloodshed through her eyes. This BBC production was a worldwide success and an awards juggernaut. It won Golden Globes, BAFTAs and an Emmy, with the two female leads sharing the accolades. The supporting cast includes the great Fiona Shaw, whose class and talent further strengthened the strength of the performance. As far as love stories between agents and assassins go, Killing Eve It’s definitely one of the best.
1
Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997-2003)
Buffy remade the idea of the chosen one
Sometimes a show comes along that redefines the television landscape, and what Buffy Summers has done for female-led shows is simply incredible. A much better remake of the film of the same name, Sarah Michelle Gellar is the epitome of ’90s girl power. She fights vampires and demons every night, but she also wants to be loved and watch live music with her friends. In 1997, it seemed unheard of that a little blonde girl would be able to save the world and get to class on time. But she did it several times.
Having launched a successful spin-off and the careers of many of its stars Buffy the Vampire Slayer a cultural phenomenon when it first aired and remains so today. Gellar’s portrayal of the California teenager is gritty and witty in equal measure as she navigates the Hellmouth and high school at the same time. She combined a touching fragility with the kind of strength that could be felt through the screen. Viewers old and new are drawn to Sunnydale for its high-stakes drama, smart writing, and one of the most iconic heroines of all time.