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This article was co-authored by wikiHow staff writer, Glenn Carreau. Glenn Carreau is a wikiHow Staff Writer, currently based in Los Angeles. With over four years of experience writing for several online publications, she has covered topics ranging from world history to the entertainment industry. Glenn graduated with honors from Columbia College Chicago, earning a B.A. in Interactive Arts and Media and a minor in Professional Writing. Today, Glenn continues to feed her lifelong love of learning while serving wikiHow's many readers.
This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources.
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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’ve compiled a list of the most iconic and beloved female characters of all time, from classic literature to modern cinema (and everywhere in between).
Iconic Female Fictional Characters
Some of the most iconic female characters in film, TV, and beyond include:
- Princess Leia (Star Wars)
- Hermione Granger (Harry Potter)
- Ripley (Alien)
- Katniss Everdeen (The Hunger Games)
- Mulan (Mulan)
- Lara Croft (Tomb Raider)
- Olivia Pope (Scandal)
- Wonder Woman (DC)
- Dorothy Gale (The Wizard of Oz)
- Daenerys (Game of Thrones)
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Of all the female characters in the Star Wars franchise, Leia arguably remains the most iconic—and a very famous character in cinematic history altogether! She’s 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!”
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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.”
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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. She’s 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.[1] X Research source- Memorable quote: “I got you, you son of a b*tch.”
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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.”
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Katniss is the protagonist of The Hunger Games, and one of her most iconic moments occurs early on in the very first book (or movie). She volunteers to take her sister’s place in a deadly competition, and that act of deep love and sacrifice is what defines her journey for the rest of the trilogy. Katniss is strong and resourceful, but also a reluctant hero, and her relatability has made her a fan-favorite character.- Memorable quote: “Fire is catching. And if we burn…you burn with us!”
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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.[2] X Research source
- 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.”
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Lara Croft is the star of the Tomb Raider video game series—a series that has, over the years, been brought to film, TV, and beyond. Lara herself is a big deal because of the way she’s grown and been reinvented over the years. She was a pop culture sex symbol when the Tomb Raider games first took off, and since then, she’s also become a symbol of strength and female power (especially in the male-dominated gaming industry).- Memorable quote: “If I don’t survive, none of us will.”
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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). Due to The Wizard of Oz’s fame, Dorothy has appeared in too many adaptations, spin-offs, and other pop culture media to count!
- Memorable quote: “Toto, I’ve got a feeling we’re not in Kansas anymore.”
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The Game of Thrones TV series might be over, but nobody will be forgetting the Mother of Dragons anytime soon. In both the books and the show, she makes a name for herself by taking control of her life and overcoming the abusive figures in it, evolving into a strong and self-reliant queenly figure capable of toppling nations. And, of course, her three dragons only add to her mystique!- Memorable quote: “I will take what is mine with fire and blood.”
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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.”
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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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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![3] X Research source
- Memorable quote: “I am one of the Vuvalini! Of the Many Mothers! My initiate mother was K.D. Concannon. I am the daughter of Mary Jabassa. My clan was Swaddle Dog.”
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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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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.[4] X Research source
- Memorable quote: “Sometimes the only way to stay sane is to go a little crazy.”
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As the female protagonist of The Terminator, 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 is what makes her truly remarkable—and what 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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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."
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Mary Poppins is the cheerful (magical) nanny most notably portrayed in Disney’s 1964 film; thus, she’s most iconic for her songs in the movie! After all, songs like “A Spoonful of Sugar” and “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” have charmed audiences for generations, alongside the image of Mary Poppins herself flying along with an umbrella and an enchanted carpet bag.- Memorable quote: “In every job that must be done, there is an element of fun. You find the fun, and the job's a game!”
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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?”
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Alice (of Alice in Wonderland fame) has been a unique and beloved character since Lewis Carroll originally released his books. She became a symbol of creativity and imagination as well as societal change and feminism. With so many movies and shows featuring Alice (and Wonderland) having been created over the years, it’s no wonder that this character is so enduring and famous.- Memorable quote: “I knew who I was this morning, but I’ve changed a few times since then.”
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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.”
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Cersei is one of the most recognizable and well-written female villains out there! She may not be good, but she’s an undeniably interesting character—someone Game of Thrones viewers always loved to hate. Cersei is absolutely ruthless and cunning, a trained politician, and does horrendous things in the name of power and respect, yet she’s also driven by love for her children and family.- Memorable quote: "When you play the game of thrones, you win or you die. There is no middle ground."
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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.
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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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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.”
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Marge Gunderson of Fargo is a fascinating and underrated character; she’s a strong character who still manages to be openly kind, gentle, and empathetic. She’s also pregnant for most of the movie! While her “niceness” is sometimes mistaken for weakness, Marge continually proves naysayers wrong; she’s good at her job and a police officer with genuine integrity.- Memorable quote: “I'm not sure I agree with you a hundred percent on your police work, there, Lou.”
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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!”
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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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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!"
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While many female characters in Trinity’s time were love interests and sidekicks, Trinity stood out as a formidable hacker and action hero. She’s just as tough as Neo (the protagonist), and she’s portrayed with both strength and vulnerability in the movie.[5] X Research source- Memorable quote: “I believe if you are really serious about rescuing him, you are going to need my help. And since I am the ranking officer on this ship, if you don't like it...I believe you can go to hell. Because you're not going anywhere else.”
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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.”
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In a household prone to absurd tomfoolery, Lisa Simpson is the family’s resident intellectual, as well as its moral compass! Where characters like Homer and Bart are vehicles for chaos, pranks, and silliness, Lisa is more hopeful and down-to-earth. She’s always advocating for important causes—from environmentalism to feminism—and actually trying to make the world a better place.- Memorable quote: “Don’t you think we ought to attack the roots of our social problems instead of jamming people into overcrowded prisons?”
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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."
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Within the Star Wars universe, Padmé was a skilled politician and ally to the Jedi order. She was first Queen and then a Senator for her homeworld of Naboo, and she was a tireless advocate for peace and justice despite Palpatine’s increasingly dark influence on galactic government. Beyond that, Padmé serves as a symbol of hope—and her very iconic style only adds to her notoriety.- Memorable quote: “So this is how liberty dies…with thunderous applause.”
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Elle Woods is another example of a female character who challenges stereotypes, specifically the “dumb blonde” stereotype. As she attends Harvard Law School and grows into a talented, competent lawyer, she also 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.
- 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.”
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The lovable, fast-talking Lorelai Gilmore touched the hearts of millions during the run of Gilmore Girls. She’s a well-written, complex character, having escaped from her wealthy but strict parents and become a mother while still young. She’s also part of a very unique, groundbreaking mother-daughter dynamic, as she and Rory (her daughter) are best friends as much as parent and child.- Memorable quote: "And if eating cake is wrong, I don't want to be right."
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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!"
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Arwen is a powerful symbol of love and sacrifice in The Lord of the Rings. She may not have a huge role in the overall plot, but her love for Aragorn is still an important emotional beat in the story. She actively chooses mortality and love over eternal life, putting all of her hope and faith in that love despite the dire circumstances.- Memorable quote: "I would rather share one lifetime with you than face all the ages of this world alone."
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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.”
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Audrey Hepburn’s character, Holly Golightly, quickly became a fashion icon after the release of Breakfast at Tiffany’s, as did Hepburn herself! Holly’s little black dress, pearls, and oversized sunglasses became a popular and absolutely timeless look in Hollywood—and her fashion choices in the movie still influence fashion trends in the present day.- Memorable quote: “I'm like cat here, a no-name slob. We belong to nobody and nobody belongs to us. We don't even belong to each other.”
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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.”
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Lucille Ball’s portrayal of Lucy Ricardo on I Love Lucy made the show an enduring fixture of comedy TV—even today! She was a master of physical comedy, and her comedic timing was superb. As Lucy Ricardo, Ball redefined America’s perception of what female comedians could do on television.- Memorable quote: “Here I am with all of this talent bottled up inside of me, and you’re always sitting on the cork.”
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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.”
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Jessica Rabbit is an animated icon—and the ultimate paradox. She’s hypersexualized and portrayed as a “femme fatale”-type character in Who Framed Roger Rabbit, yet she defies that stereotype through her personality; she’s witty, smart, and very devoted to her husband, Roger. She’s iconic because she embodies subversive femininity—a sex symbol, yet her character also makes fun of femme fatale sex symbols.- Memorable quote: “I’m not bad; I’m just drawn that way.”
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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.”
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Annalise Keating of How to Get Away with Murder fame is an icon on many levels, famous for breaking television barriers as a Black woman who is powerful and incredibly smart, yet also flawed and morally grey. To add to that, Keating is also a bisexual character. She became a complicated antihero—a space mainly occupied by white male characters before she came along.- Memorable quote: “Prayers are for the weak. I’ll stick to beating your a** in court.”
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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.”
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Storm’s “icon” status comes from being one of the first major Black female superheroes. Of course, her powers don’t hurt, either; she’s able to manipulate weather, wind, air pressure, and even lightning. She’s classified as an Omega-level mutant, meaning her powers are incredibly strong—more so than most mutants. And with those abilities, she has inspired Marvel fans around the world!- Memorable quote: "Are you ready to do what you need to do when the time comes?"
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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.”
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Before Carrie Bradshaw and Sex and the City, “sex” was much more of a taboo concept on TV. In the show, Carrie existed as a modern depiction of a woman navigating life, love, and her career while maintaining her own independence; thus, she became a symbol of empowerment for women!- Memorable quote: “The most exciting, challenging, and significant relationship of all is the one you have with yourself.”
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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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About This Article
This article was co-authored by wikiHow staff writer, Glenn Carreau. Glenn Carreau is a wikiHow Staff Writer, currently based in Los Angeles. With over four years of experience writing for several online publications, she has covered topics ranging from world history to the entertainment industry. Glenn graduated with honors from Columbia College Chicago, earning a B.A. in Interactive Arts and Media and a minor in Professional Writing. Today, Glenn continues to feed her lifelong love of learning while serving wikiHow's many readers.
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Updated: November 10, 2025
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Categories: Celebrities
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