Good female role models can be found in many places, but sometimes it’s a character that connects with you most. I want to bring attention to some female characters that helped guide me through life.
I didn’t have many people who felt like role models in my life. I knew people I wanted to emulate somehow, but I didn’t necessarily define them as role models. There were also times when I had a hard time making friends, and watching TV and movies helped me find people who resonated with me. I built stronger connections to these characters than I did the actual people around me.
In no particular order, here are some female characters who influenced me.
1. Dr. Meredith Grey
Show: Grey’s Anatomy
Played by Ellen Pompeo
Meredith is a mother and award-winning general surgeon. She has had a life-long struggle with her mental health but always works through her issues. She is an avid advocate for medical advancement and accessible healthcare.
2. Dr. Cristina Yang
Show: Grey’s Anatomy
Played by Sandra Oh
Cristina is a brilliant, career-driven, award-winning cardio thoracic surgeon. She knew what it took to accomplish her goals and was determined to become the best version of herself.
3. Katara
Show: Avator the Last Airbender
Played by Mae Whitman
Katara grieved her mother but became a master waterbender and healer. She was often seen as a mother figure, always willing to sacrifice for the well-being of her loved ones.
4. Korra
Show: The Legend of Korra
Played by Janet Varney
Korra started strong, talented, and stubborn but became peaceful and spiritual. She worked through her mental health journey and recovered from extreme trauma.
5. Padme Amidala
Movie: Star Wars Universe
Played by Natalie Portman
Padme was a Queen and senator who advocated for peace during war. Despite being constantly underestimated, she made sure her opinion was heard and taken seriously.
6. Ahsoka Tano
Movie: Star Wars Universe
Played by Ashley Eckstein and Rosario Dawson
Ahsoka was introduced as a young, overly confident padawan but became an intelligent, tactical, and wise leader. She had the confidence to choose a different path for herself.
7. Natasha Romanoff aka Black Widow
Movie: Marvel Cinematic Universe
Played by Scarlett Johansson
Natasha is a trained assassin but chooses to use her skills to help others instead. She’s a loving sister and good friend but sacrificed everything to help return millions to their loved ones.
8. Elle Woods
Movie: Legally Blonde
Played by Reese Witherspoon
Elle proved brilliance, etiquette, and kindness are superior despite being greatly underestimated for her appearance.
9. Fa Mulan
Movie: Mulan (1998), Mulan (2020)
Played by Ming-Na Wen, Lui Yifei
Mulan defied traditional gender norms and became a respected warrior and savior of China.
10. Elena Alvarez
Show: One Day at a Time
Played by Isabella Gomez
Elena is unapologetically herself. She balances being Cuban, Christian, and a lesbian with class, knowledge, confidence, and immense self-respect.
11. Jane Villanueva
Show: Jane the Virgin
Played by Gina Rodriguez
Jane refused to compromise her morals or her family to chase her dreams regardless of how challenging that became.
12. Rainbow Johnson
Show: Black-ish
Played by Tracee Ellis Ross
Rainbow balanced race, gender, activism, talent, and beauty with respect and elegance despite her insecurities.
13. Katherine Beckett
Show: Castle
Played by Stana Katic
Kate was a strong leader with quick instincts. She was career-driven and the muscle in her relationship.
14. Princess Merida
Movie: Brave
Played by Kelly Mcdonald
Merida refused to succumb to outdated traditions to please her family. She created her path and took steps to build her best future.
15. Astrid Hofferson
Movie: How to Train Your Dragon Franchise
Played by America Ferrera
Astrid is a warrior who protects those close to her. She is confident and quick to adapt to any situation to support others.