For much of cinematic history, famous action roles were synonymous with male characters, especially on major television networks. There were, of course, female-led productions, but the closest audiences got to a female action star was Annie Oakley in 1956. The '70s offered more of a renaissance for powerful women in action roles, with shows like Wonder Woman and Charlie's Angels being huge hits of the time. But, the truth is, it took a while for women-fronted projects to become more commonplace.

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 but also complex and well-rounded individuals, fully able to carry a hit TV show. Since then, viewers have tuned in time and time again, keen to see their favorite spies, assassins, and protectors doing what they do best in high-octane adventures.

10 Nikita (2010-2013)

Nikita Boasts Secrets & Agents

Maggie Q plays the eponymous character, a mysterious woman who has escaped a secret government agency, poised to enact her revenge. As the audience learns more about the character's past, they see the grueling training she went through and the level of toughness that makes her one of the most formidable operatives in her field.

She's a mentor to Alex, has a complicated relationship with fellow agent, Michael, and shows her softer side in various flashbacks to her old life with her deceased 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 ran for 4 seasons, amassing 78 episodes. It drew established names like McG, Melinda Clarke, and Devon Sawa, creating an exciting world of espionage and impressive action. The show also excelled at mixing great stunt work with plenty of relationship drama. As the stakes rose, so did the viewer's devotion to their favorite characters and storylines. Yet Q was the beating heart of Nikita, in every possible way.

9 Blindspot (2015-2020)

"Jane Doe" Is Inked & Ready To Fight

Blindspot's most memorable image must be the shot 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 ink means, it instantly hooked viewers who became desperate to get to the bottom of this mysterious Jane Doe's story. As the audience learns more about Alexander's character, the actress showcases her range throughout.

She is tough when she has to be, vulnerable as she grapples with her past, and can hold her own in a fight. Having originally aired on NBC, Blindspot continues to gain viewership on streaming worldwide. Seeing the lead take on multiple roles including an FBI analyst, and even a former terrorist, gripped viewers as they learned more about those mysterious tattoos, and what they actually signify.

8 Dark Angel (2000-2002)

Dark Angel Is Not Just About 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 modified super-soldier, X5-452, or Max. The story cleverly jumps between the "present day", and Max's memories from the Manticore facility where she gained her powers. There's also some excellent "young casting" with Geneva Locke being the spitting image of Jessica Alba. The overarching sense of danger is palpable, with Max compelled to protect her loved ones and help the innocent.

Cameron's vision and a hefty budget make Dark Angel an action-packed visual feast. Furthermore, Michael Weathely's character awakens a more vulnerable and protective side in Max, as he serves as the series' main love interest. The appearance of Jensen Ackles as her Manticore brother provides an additional layer of trauma for her to unpack. This stylish series, though short-lived, remains an influential one. Many subsequent shows tried to capture the slick feel, murky atmosphere, and sultry strength of Alba's performance.

7 Agent Carter (2015-2016)

A Glimpse Into The Life Of Peggy Carter

Having been introduced as Steve Rogers' strong-willed love interest in Captain America: First Avenger, Hayley Atwell's Peggy Carter navigates life in the 1940s after his "death". The show came at a time when MCU TV shows were in their early stages, showing the benefits of giving an interesting side character their own story, allowing them to grow and demonstrate the many facets of their personalities. Atwell is a scene stealer, even when playing opposite Chris Evans and Tommy Lee Jones; when her time to shine arrived, she did not disappoint.

The historical setting allows for some poignant points about feminism, as well as a film-noir style of action. Additionally, the in-universe references will appeal to fans of the MCU but exist independently of it, allowing new viewers to get immersed in Carter's world. Meanwhile, Atwell is comfortable in this role and it shows. She leads with ease, mixing wit with perseverance, sprinkling her innate charm over each scene. She's a formidable yet elegant fighter and captivating to watch.

6 Sweetpea (2024)

How Far Is Too Far In Sweetpea?

Having felt invisible and overlooked her whole life, Ella Purnell's Rhiannon finally snaps and goes on a self-righteous killing spree in Sweetpea. After the death of her father (and her dog); after her school bully comes back into her life, uncovering a mountain of trauma; and after she gets covered in urine by a man who doesn't notice her, this mild-mannered character transforms before the viewers' eyes. A thought-provoking series, it shows how even the most mild-mannered person can be pushed to their limit.

Purnell does an incredible job of playing a timid, mousy young girl, who's too afraid to stand up for herself. Whether by her sister or her terrible co-workers, Rhiannon constantly gets walked over and cannot do anything about it. When she finally takes her life into her own hands by killing "bad" people, a light turns on. She's stronger, more assertive, and even looks different. The premise resonates with modern viewers viscerally, and the series was a critical success in which Purnell offers a powerhouse performance that's one for the ages.

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 had not been many shows focusing on female spies, and this was the first to strike this chord in such an impactful way. From her many disguises, and spectacular fight scenes to the sizzling chemistry with Vaughn, the show had everything. The ing cast includes the likes of Victor Gerber and Bradley Cooper, who both have their own complex relationships with the lead character, peeling away layers from her hard facade.

Produced by J.J. Abrams, Alias 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 everything with flair and true bravery. She's been an inspiration to future generations, and a template for many spy shows that came after.

4 Hanna (2019-2021)

Hanna Delves Into The Wild

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 girl is played by Esme Creed-Miles, whose rawness lends itself perfectly to the sparse world she finds herself living in. It's a coming-of-age story of sorts, combined with elements of a thriller and dark drama.

The focus of this high-concept show is on its realism. The violence does not hold back, the plot packs a punch, and it's shot in an almost naturalistic way. Big names such as 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-watch for viewers who are drawn to a complicated protagonist with strength of character and perseverance.

3 Xena: Warrior Princess (1995-2001)

Xena Is A Heroine In Every Way

Originally a spin-off of Hercules: The Legendary Journeys, Lucy Lawless burst onto the scene in a way that had not been seen much before. Strong both physically and mentally, she plays a mythological royal heroine in this iconic fantasy series. A bit campy, both historically and geographically fluid, Xena: Warrior Princess doesn't shy away from all-out entertainment. It eventually overtook its predecessor in ratings and reach, and has been shown on networks in over 108 countries worldwide.

Easily a global phenomenon, Xena: Warrior Princess tackled taboo subjects of the time, like homosexuality and modern feminism, by 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 power and divine femininity.

2 Killing Eve (2018-2022)

Eve & Villanelle Have An Unrivaled Dynamic

The chemistry between Sandra Oh and Jodie Comer is electric in the deadly game of cat and mouse seen in Killing Eve. When the world was introduced to Villanelle in her pink Molly Goddard dress and chunky Balenciaga boots, she became a fashion and cultural icon. Her deadpan delivery of the most savage lines, the intense look in her eyes, and the ease with which she could dispose of a body all made her riveting 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 smash hit and awards show juggernaut. It won Golden Globes, BAFTA's, and an Emmy, with both female leads sharing the accolades. The ing cast includes the great Fiona Shaw, whose class and talent further fortified the strength of the acting. As far as agent/assassin love stories go, Killing Eve is 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 landscape of television, and what Buffy Summers did for female-led shows is nothing short of 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 tiny blonde girl would be able to save the world and make it to class on time. But she did so, multiple 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 to this day. Gellar's portrayal of the Californian teenager is gutsy and witty in equal measure, as she navigates the Hellmouth and high school at the same time. She combined a heartbreaking fragility with the kind of strength that could be felt through the screen. Viewers old and new are drawn to Sunnydale by the high-stakes drama, clever writing, and one of the most iconic heroines to ever pack a punch.