There is no doubt that 2018 has been a great year for the female lead, from the first female Doctor to Jenna Coleman’s performance in The Cry, women are taking over.  

To celebrate, why not revisit some of TV’s strongest women?

The Doctor

It’s no surprise Jodie Whittaker’s debut as the 13th incarnation of the renegade Time Lord drew in record audiences. From the moment she crashes onto our screens, Whittaker owns the role. 

Doctor Who is on iPlayer

(c) Instagram


Ellie Miller 


Olivia Colman is due to make her debut on The Crown, so now’s a good time to sink your teeth into her brilliant performance as DS Ellie Miller, who doesn’t let anything stand in her way.

Broadchurch is on Now TV

(c) Instagram

Nola Darling


DeWanda Wise’s unapologetic artist Nola, tar of Spike Lee’s series based on his 1986 film, pulls no punches. Confident and powerful, Nola knows what she wants and won’t be dictated to.

She’s Gotta Have It is on Netflix

(c) Instagram

Issa Dee


Writer and actor Issa Rae’s brilliantly relatable performance as Issa has earned her two Golden Globe nominations. See what all the fuss is about on Insecure.

Insecure is available on Now TV. 

(c) Instagram

Sarah Lund

Sofie Gråbøl’s portrayal of a Danish detective unbothered by male expectations is even more memorable than the jumpers that have given the character serious cult status.

The Killing is on Arrow TV

(c) Instagram


The Independent