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Film expert Lexi Amoriello shares some of the most iconic female characters in film (& why they’re so beloved)
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There’s plenty of work still to do in terms of female representation in movies, TV, and other media—but that doesn’t mean there aren’t some truly great, iconic female characters already out there! Whether you’re doing research, trying to learn more about these characters, or just checking to see if your faves are “iconic,” we’ve got you covered. In this article, we spoke to film expert Lexi Amoriello to help us compile a list of the most iconic and beloved female characters of all time, from classic literature to modern cinema (and everywhere in between).

1

Princess Leia Organa (Star Wars)

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  1. Amoriello agrees that Princess Leia is one of the most iconic female characters in film, saying, “Even people who’ve never seen Star Wars are familiar with her” from her “unique name and easily recognizable outfits and hairstyles.”[1] In the Star Wars franchise, Leia is a princess, a general, a war hero, and a resourceful survivor who can flatten anyone, friend or foe, with snark alone. As a major character and fan-favorite throughout the original trilogy and the new trilogy, Leia’s impact on the franchise is impossible to deny.
    • Memorable quote: “Someone has to save our skins. Into the garbage chute, fly boy!”

    Meet the wikiHow Expert

    Lexi Amoriello is a movie and film content creator who reviews new releases and deep dives into classic films. She’s also the founder of Movie Recs By Lex, where she specializes in personalized movie recommendations.

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2

Hermione Granger (Harry Potter)

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  1. Hermione Granger is the brainy, clever witch from Harry Potter—one of Harry’s closest friends throughout the series. It didn’t take long for her to become a fan-favorite character, especially since she’s been such an irreplaceable presence in just about every adventure (seriously, she’s saved Harry and Ron too many times to count). She’s smart, compassionate, and a grounding voice of reason in the series.
    • Memorable quote: “Now, if you two don’t mind, I’m going to bed. Before either of you comes up with another clever idea to get us killed—or worse, expelled.”
3

Ellen Ripley (Alien)

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  1. Ellen Ripley is the protagonist of the first two Alien movies—and proof that if you want to survive a horror movie plot, you should really listen to the strong, capable woman in the room. According to Amoriello, Ripley is “one of the best examples of a strong female character who holds her own,” noting that it wasn’t as common to see sci-fi movies with a female protagonist at the time, which made her character really stand out.[2] Ripley is iconic for the way she defies traditionally feminine tropes while being the star of the show; she’s smart, resourceful, and logical, yet also vulnerable. She shows fear…and overcomes it.[3]
    • Memorable quote: “I got you, you son of a b*tch.”
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4

Olivia Pope (Scandal)

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  1. Olivia Pope was a powerful, barrier-breaking character while Scandal aired on TV. She was one of the first Black female characters to serve as the lead of a primetime TV drama in many years. She was also a boss in the male-dominated world of American politics, and that made her an inspiration! More than that, Olivia Pope was also complex and flawed—an anti-hero dealing with her own problems and vulnerabilities while also being a mover and shaper in Washington, D.C.
    • Memorable quote: “I’m choosing me. I’m choosing Olivia. And right now, Olivia is dancing. Now you can dance with me, or you can get off my dance floor. I’m fine dancing alone.”
5

Katniss Everdeen (The Hunger Games)

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6

Wonder Woman (Wonder Woman)

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  1. Wonder Woman made her superhero debut in 1941—long before most well-known female superheroes today had been created. In fact, the only three superheroes to have their own comic book for a few years in the 1950s were Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman! As she has withstood the test of time, Wonder Woman has also become a symbol of female empowerment for generations of women.[4]
    • Memorable quote: “We have a saying, my people. Don’t kill if you can wound, don’t wound if you can subdue, don’t subdue if you can pacify, and don’t raise your hand at all until you’ve first extended it.”
7

Lara Croft (Tomb Raider)

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8

Dorothy Gale (The Wizard of Oz)

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  1. Throughout Dorothy Gale’s journey from the monochrome Kansas to the magical, colorful land of Oz, she becomes a symbol of courage, determination, and the search for home (and, more importantly, belonging). Amoriello adds that Dorothy is iconic for her staying power in pop culture: The Wizard of Oz has been around for almost a century and is tied to the original books, Wicked, and other inspired stories. “The character’s outfit has become instantly recognizable, and people tend to dress up as her for Halloween every year,” Amoriello also notes. This makes her a character that most people can identify, even if they don’t watch many movies.[5]
    • Memorable quote: “Toto, I’ve got a feeling we’re not in Kansas anymore.”
9

Daenerys Targaryen (Game of Thrones)

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10

Arya Stark (Game of Thrones)

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  1. Arya Stark’s character arc in Game of Thrones is defined by her determination to be the person she wants to be, and not conform to traditional gender roles—those within her fictional world and those in the real world. She embraces her talents for swordplay and survival, ultimately becoming one of the strongest fighters of all, and her journey of self-actualization makes her an inspiration for many readers and viewers.
    • Memorable quote: “A girl is Arya Stark of Winterfell. And I am going home.”
11

Buffy Summers (Buffy the Vampire Slayer)

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  1. In her heyday, Buffy Summers was beloved for the way she balanced the tribulations of her job as “the Slayer” with her life as a teenage girl. Her character subverted the “blonde damsel in distress” trope, turning her into the tough, witty, stake-slinging vampire slayer and everyone else into the damsels. And she’s not just a “strong” character—she’s flawed and complicated, dealing with everything from high school drama to very real trauma and mental illness.
    • Memorable quote: “I’m the thing that monsters have nightmares about.”
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12

Imperator Furiosa (Mad Max)

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  1. Mad Max’s imperator Furiosa became the star of Fury Road, even more so than Max himself. She became a feminist icon through her strength, resilience, and vulnerability, navigating the harsh post-apocalyptic world while seeking justice for her family. Despite all the suffering in her life, Furiosa is a symbol of hope more than anything else![6]
    • Memorable quote: “I am one of the Vuvalini! Of the Many Mothers! My initiate mother was K.T. Concannon. I am the daughter of Mary Jabassa. My clan was Swaddle Dog.”
13

Elizabeth Bennet (Pride & Prejudice)

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  1. Elizabeth Bennet is a character from English society in the 1800s—a time when women were expected to be quiet and subservient. Elizabeth, however, is the opposite of those things: she’s spirited, strong-willed, and outspoken. Furthermore, her journey involves examining and overcoming her own prejudices, making her a well-rounded, realistic character (as well as one of the most beloved heroines in classic literature).
    • Memorable quote: “There are few people whom I really love, and still fewer of whom I think well.”
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14

Harley Quinn (Batman)

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  1. Harley Quinn is no superhero, but that hasn’t stopped her from becoming a fan-favorite character in the DC Comics universe. In her early days, she was just the Joker’s sidekick—but now, she’s a standalone character with her own story arcs and adventures. She’s also not so much a villain as she is a lovably chaotic anti-hero nowadays, as well as a symbol of self-discovery and reclaiming one’s identity.[7]
    • Memorable quote: “Sometimes the only way to stay sane is to go a little crazy.”
15

Sarah Connor (The Terminator)

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  1. “Sarah Connor from the Terminator franchise is an incredible example of a strong female character, and an iconic one, because she undergoes exponential character growth between the first and second movie,” explains Amoriello. This makes her “one of the most memorable female characters of all time.”[8] In the franchise, Sarah goes from damsel in distress to warrior on a mission, determined to protect her son, John Connor, and prevent Judgment Day from happening. This transformation cemented her status as an early feminist icon in film.
    • Memorable quote: “If a machine can learn the value of human life, maybe we can, too.”
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16

Dana Scully (The X-Files)

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  1. Dana Scully isn’t just the female protagonist of The X-Files; she’s also one of the first female leads in a primetime show to be depicted working in a scientific field. That might not seem like a huge deal, but it was actually groundbreaking at the time! She challenged gender stereotypes by being Mulder’s more rational, logical counterpart, becoming a fictional role model for many women.
    • Memorable quote: "The truth is out there, but so are lies."
17

Mary Poppins (Mary Poppins)

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18

Mulan (Mulan)

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  1. Mulan is another great example of a female character who broke through gender barriers—in Mulan’s case, in the name of family and loyalty. She took her father’s place in the Chinese army, training to become a decorated warrior even though society at the time forbade it, and ultimately saved her homeland. Mulan’s story has evolved from Chinese folklore to a modern Disney movie, making her undoubtedly iconic!
    • Memorable quote: “You said you'd trust Ping. Why is Mulan any different?”
19

Alice (Alice in Wonderland)

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20

Xena (Xena: Warrior Princess)

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  1. Xena (the warrior princess) was a pioneer among female action heroes: strong, intelligent, and independent. Many agree that she paved the way for more female protagonists on TV, and the Xena show itself gained a dedicated cult following. Furthermore, Xena’s close relationship with her companion, Gabrielle, has also turned her into an LGBTQ+ icon; many interpret their connection as romantic in nature.
    • Memorable quote: “Making war is simple. Making peace is never easy. If it was, everyone would do it.”
21

Cersei Lannister (Game of Thrones)

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22

Sabrina Spellman (Sabrina the Teenage Witch)

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  1. Sabrina Spellman has been the star of multiple TV adaptations, and through them all, she’s been iconic for her power, magical abilities, and the fact that she tempers them with a strong moral compass. She strives to balance her mortal and magical lives—and she’s become something of a fashion icon as well, given her quirky yet stylish aesthetic.
    • Memorable quote: "I have learned how to live, how to be IN the world and OF the world, and not just to stand aside and watch. And I will never, never again run away from life."
23

Zelda (The Legend of Zelda)

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  1. Princess Zelda may not be the protagonist of most Legend of Zelda games, but it’s still her name in the titles—and with good reason! The truth is, you just can’t have The Legend of Zelda without…well, Zelda! She’s become a beloved female character in a long-running video game series, and gamers everywhere adore her as a wise, mysterious princess who isn’t afraid to act when the situation calls for it.
    • Memorable quote: “What's the matter? I have to be a witch, I have to be a mortal, I have to be a teenager, and I have to be a girl all at the same time. That's what's the matter.”
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24

Eówyn (The Lord of the Rings)

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  1. Eówyn is The Lord of the Rings’ version of a female character who defies female gender roles. Despite being told she can’t fight in the war for Middle-earth, she disguises herself as a soldier and goes to war anyway—killing the Witch-king of Angmar in battle (whom “no man can kill”). Eówyn is someone determined not to be helpless or caged, and she uses this drive to defeat a creature believed to be invincible!
    • Memorable quote: “I am no man.”
26

Liz Lemon (30 Rock)

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  1. There aren’t many comedy protagonists on this list, but Liz Lemon is definitely iconic enough to be mentioned—if only for the amazing jokes that still get quoted (and tossed around in GIFs) despite the show ending in 2013. Liz won fans’ hearts by being super relatable; she’s a working woman, she’s trying (and failing) to “have it all,” she loves eating night cheese in a Slanket, and she hates the word “lovers” unless it’s between the words “meat” and “pizza.”
    • Memorable quote: “Guess who's got two thumbs, speaks limited French, and hasn't cried once today? This moi!”
27

Leslie Knope (Parks and Recreation)

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  1. While we’re talking about comedy protagonists, let’s mention Leslie Knope, too—the lead in Parks and Recreation. Leslie is iconic as a shining example of what politicians should be: passionate, honest, and genuinely dedicated to the community she works with. Leslie is the embodiment of unwavering optimism, representing the power of positivity in the face of everything the world can throw at you!
    • Memorable quote: “There’s nothing we can’t do if we work hard, never sleep, and shirk all other responsibilities in our lives.”
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28

Regina George (Mean Girls)

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  1. It’s hard to forget Regina George’s introduction in Mean Girls. “Evil takes human form in Regina George,” says Janis Ian. “One time, she punched me in the face. It was awesome,” says another student. She’s the ultimate mean girl and queen bee of high school, but she’s iconic largely because of her hilarious one-liners! “Get in, loser, we’re going shopping.” Also, she’s dead-set on not making “fetch” happen.
    • Memorable quote: "Stop trying to make fetch happen. It's not going to happen!"
29

Trinity (The Matrix)

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30

Ellie (The Last of Us)

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  1. Ellie is famous for her complexity and nuance as a character, as well as her representation as a lesbian protagonist. Throughout the games (and show), she struggles with not only her trauma, but also her increasing tolerance for violence and bloodshed. As a survivor, she sometimes does ruthless things to get by, and her character arc explores the true cost of vengeance.
    • Memorable quote: “I'm just a girl. Not a threat.”
31

Lisa Simpson (The Simpsons)

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32

Mystique (X-Men)

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  1. Mystique—the shapeshifting mutant from the X-Men franchise—is both anti-hero and icon for many reasons. On a physical level, she’s very visually distinct and memorable, as her “default” form is a deep blue with bright red, contrasting hair. Symbolically, Mystique represents the struggle to find one’s identity, as well as the struggle for all marginalized groups to find acceptance in the world.
    • Memorable quote: "We're government agents now. We should have secret code names. I want to be called Mystique."
34

Elle Woods (Legally Blonde)

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  1. “Elle Woods from Legally Blonde is an iconic female character because she embodies the quintessential feminine stereotypes on the surface while also subverting misogynistic tropes,” explains Amoriello. Elle is beautiful and girly, but also intelligent and hardworking, she notes. “Where most romcoms would have the woman do everything to win over the guy, she starts off that way only to realize she’s too good for him,” which makes her “an empowering character in a film that was vastly ahead of its time.”[10]
    • Elle proves that women with traditionally “feminine” traits and clothing (including a love of the color pink) don’t need to change themselves to be successful. In fact, she ultimately succeeds because of her femininity—not despite it.
    • “Plus, she delivers so many quotable lines that help add to her character’s legacy,” adds Amoriello.[11]
    • Memorable quote: “If I’m gonna be a partner in a law firm by the time I’m 30, I’m going to need a boyfriend who’s not such a complete bonehead.”
36

Katara (Avatar: The Last Airbender)

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  1. Katara is more than the official waterbending master of Team Avatar. Her huge heart and deep emotions (not to mention the openness with which she displays them) make her the emotional and moral center of the group. She’s a kind and nurturing person, yet also struggles to find a balance between mercy, vengeance, and strength. And, of course, she’s one of the greatest waterbenders in centuries. What’s not to love?
    • Memorable quote: "I will never, ever turn my back on people who need me!"
37

Arwen Undómiel (The Lord of the Rings)

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38

The Bride (Kill Bill)

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  1. The Bride—also known as Beatrix Kiddo—is an icon from the Kill Bill movies for many reasons. Viewers came to admire her character arc, which is one of survival, strength, and revenge. More than that, she exemplifies a female action hero—she has agency, and uses it to topple her enemies. Plus, her bright yellow tracksuit makes her instantly recognizable, even to people who haven’t seen the movies!
    • Memorable quote: “I roared and I rampaged and I got bloody satisfaction.”
39

Holly Golightly (Breakfast at Tiffany’s)

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40

Scarlett O’Hara (Gone with the Wind)

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  1. Not only is Scarlett O’Hara an incredibly famous female character, but she’s also a controversial one. In fact, O’Hara’s “icon” status is largely because she’s complicated and flawed—not just a pretty face with a one-dimensional personality. Throughout the story, she struggles to protect her family’s land; she’s determined and resilient, yet she can also be selfish and myopic. This made her stand out compared to other female characters of her time!
    • Memorable quote: “Great balls of fire. Don't bother me anymore, and don't call me sugar.”
42

Eleven (Stranger Things)

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  1. Eleven—a character with psychic powers as a result of extreme experimentation and torture—is one of the most beloved characters on Stranger Things. Her journey as a character has resonated with many viewers; over the seasons, she’s grown from a traumatized child to a young woman with greater understanding and control of her powers.
    • Memorable quote: “Friends don’t lie.”
43

Jessica Rabbit (Who Framed Roger Rabbit)

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44

Ciri (The Witcher)

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  1. Cirilla Fiona Elen Riannon—or just Ciri—is a major character in The Witcher (its books, games, and the TV series). Her incredible powers allow her to travel between universes and manipulate time itself. She’s also the center of a prophecy, and a royal whose bloodline is tied to more than one throne. Yet the most compelling thing about her is the way she works to overcome the grief and trauma in her life and strives, more than anything, to secure her own independence.
    • Memorable quote: “No. I will flee no more.”
46

Lisbeth Salander (The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo)

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  1. Lisbeth Salander is yet another female character who subverts traditional female roles. Her journey in The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is all about defying patriarchal rules that prevent justice from being served; she uses her hacking skills and smarts to see justice done, without the need for a male protector.
    • Memorable quote: “I am insane. I am f***ing insane. That’s why this works.”
48

Rachel Green (Friends)

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  1. Rachel’s “icon” status is mainly due to the massive influence she had on ’90s fashion and hair styling. In fact, her layered hairstyle on the show Friends was named “The Rachel,” and turned into a cultural phenomenon, with women clamoring to adopt the look for themselves. Rachel also became a style icon for “working girls” of the ’90s as the character herself became more professionally successful!
    • Memorable quote: “I’m gonna go get one of those job things.”
50

Natasha Romanoff/Black Widow (Marvel)

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  1. Natasha Romanoff is one of the few original Avengers without superpowers. She doesn’t have a hammer that channels lightning or super soldier serum in her veins, but she remains a formidable warrior and integral member of the team. Given her smarts, independence, and resourcefulness, it’s no wonder she’s become a symbol of empowerment in her own right.
    • Memorable quote: “I’ve got red in my ledger. I’d like to wipe it out.”

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References

  1. Lexi Amoriello. Film Expert. Expert Interview
  2. Lexi Amoriello. Film Expert. Expert Interview
  3. https://avp.fandom.com/wiki/Ellen_Ripley
  4. https://www.dc.com/characters/wonder-woman
  5. Lexi Amoriello. Film Expert. Expert Interview
  6. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1392190/characters/nm0000234/
  7. https://www.dc.com/characters/harley-quinn
  8. Lexi Amoriello. Film Expert. Expert Interview
  9. https://daily.jstor.org/trinity-real-hero-of-the-matrix/
  1. Lexi Amoriello. Film Expert. Expert Interview
  2. Lexi Amoriello. Film Expert. Expert Interview

About This Article

Lexi Amoriello
Co-authored by:
Film Expert
This article was co-authored by Lexi Amoriello and by wikiHow staff writer, Glenn Carreau. Lexi Amoriello is a writer, editor, and film content creator, as well as the founder of Movie Recs By Lex, where she specializes in personalized movie recommendations. Lexi has provided customized movie recommendations to over 4,000 people, based on their four favorite films on Letterboxd. She also reviews new releases, does deep dives about classic films, and creates a variety of film-related content. She studied screenwriting at the University of the Arts and earned a BA in English with a concentration in writing and a minor in film studies from William Paterson University. She also founded the New Jersey Film Critics Circle and was nominated for a Webby Award in 2025. This article has been viewed 6,255 times.
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Co-authors: 4
Updated: February 25, 2026
Views: 6,255
Categories: Celebrities
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