Must-Watch TV Series: Empowering and Entertaining Picks for Women

Must-Watch TV Series: Empowering and Entertaining Picks for Women

Introduction

Television has evolved significantly over the years, and we now have a plethora of TV series that cater specifically to women, showcasing diverse and empowering stories. These shows not only entertain but also inspire, empower, and provide a platform for women’s voices to be heard. Whether you’re looking for strong female leads, thought-provoking themes, or simply a show that will make you laugh, there is something for everyone. In this article, we have compiled a list of must-watch TV series that are both empowering and entertaining for women across the globe.

1. “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel”

Set in the late 1950s and early 1960s, “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” follows the journey of Miriam “Midge” Maisel, a housewife turned stand-up comedian. This Amazon Prime original series, created by Amy Sherman-Palladino, brilliantly showcases Midge’s transformation from traditional societal expectations to embracing her own ambition and talent. With sharp wit, captivating performances, and a stunning visual aesthetic, this show presents a powerful female character who challenges gender biases and breaks free from societal norms.

2. “Orange Is the New Black”

“Orange Is the New Black” is a groundbreaking Netflix series based on Piper Kerman’s memoir of the same name. The show delves into the lives of women in a minimum-security federal prison, highlighting diverse perspectives and exploring intersectional issues such as race, sexuality, and socioeconomic disparities. With an ensemble cast of incredibly talented actresses, this series empowers women by giving voice to their experiences and shedding light on the systemic flaws within the prison industrial complex.

3. “Killing Eve”

“Killing Eve” is a thrilling drama series that centers around the complicated relationship between an MI5 investigator, Eve Polastri, and an international assassin, Villanelle. This BBC America production flips traditional spy thriller narratives by presenting complex and layered female characters in the forefront. The show explores themes of empowerment, obsession, and the blurred lines between good and evil. With remarkable performances by Sandra Oh and Jodie Comer, “Killing Eve” offers a refreshing take on the genre and challenges the traditional gender roles often seen in spy dramas.

4. “Big Little Lies”

Based on the best-selling novel by Liane Moriarty, “Big Little Lies” is a riveting miniseries that follows a group of mothers in Monterey, California, whose lives become intertwined through a series of events. With an outstanding ensemble cast including Reese Witherspoon, Nicole Kidman, Shailene Woodley, Laura Dern, and Zoë Kravitz, this show tackles themes of domestic violence, motherhood, and female friendship. “Big Little Lies” not only showcases women in complex roles but also provides a platform to address important social issues that impact women’s lives.

5. “Fleabag”

“Fleabag” is a witty and irreverent British comedy-drama created by and starring Phoebe Waller-Bridge. The show revolves around the eponymous character, Fleabag, as she navigates life in London while dealing with personal losses, relationships, and her own self-destructive tendencies. With its raw and authentic portrayal of a flawed yet relatable female protagonist, “Fleabag” resonates with women from all walks of life. Waller-Bridge’s outstanding writing and performance earned her numerous accolades and critical acclaim, solidifying the show as a must-watch for women seeking both entertainment and empowerment.

6. “The Handmaid’s Tale”

Based on Margaret Atwood’s dystopian novel, “The Handmaid’s Tale” depicts a totalitarian society called Gilead, where women are subjugated and reduced to reproductive servants. This Hulu series follows the journey of Offred, a handmaid, as she navigates the oppressive regime and seeks to regain her freedom. The show uses a futuristic setting to explore themes of feminism, religious extremism, and the importance of agency. With powerful performances by Elisabeth Moss and an engrossing narrative, “The Handmaid’s Tale” serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of women’s rights and the need to fight against oppression.

7. “Jane the Virgin”

“Jane the Virgin” is a heartfelt and humorous comedy-drama that revolves around the life of Jane Villanueva, a young woman whose life takes an unexpected turn when she becomes accidentally artificially inseminated during a routine gynecological visit. This satirical telenovela-inspired show addresses important topics such as family, love, sexuality, and female empowerment. With its diverse and inclusive cast, “Jane the Virgin” showcases a strong, independent female lead who navigates life’s challenges with grace, resilience, and a touch of humor.

8. “The Crown”

“The Crown” is a critically acclaimed historical drama series that chronicles the reign of Queen Elizabeth II from her early years as a princess to the present day. This Netflix original show provides a captivating insight into the behind-the-scenes lives of the British royal family. With a focus on Queen Elizabeth II’s struggles, triumphs, and constant battle to assert her authority in a male-dominated world, “The Crown” explores themes of feminism, duty, and personal sacrifice. Claire Foy and Olivia Colman deliver remarkable performances as Queen Elizabeth II, capturing the strength and vulnerability of this iconic female leader.

9. “Insecure”

Created and starring Issa Rae, “Insecure” is a critically acclaimed HBO series that explores the lives of two best friends, Issa and Molly, as they navigate the challenges of modern-day relationships, careers, and personal growth. This refreshing and relatable show addresses important themes such as race, identity, and self-acceptance. With its smart writing, honest depiction of female friendships, and superb performances, “Insecure” resonates with women from various backgrounds and offers a fresh perspective on the complexities of life in the 21st century.

10. “Jessica Jones”

“Jessica Jones” is a Marvel superhero series that follows the life of Jessica Jones, a former superhero turned private investigator. This Netflix show stands out for its complex and flawed female lead, who battles her inner demons while fighting against various antagonists. “Jessica Jones” tackles dark and sensitive topics such as trauma, abuse, and recovery. With its gritty storytelling and powerful performances by Krysten Ritter and Rachael Taylor, this series presents a nuanced and empowering portrayal of a female superhero.

Conclusion

Television has become a platform for captivating storytelling that both entertains and empowers women. From comedies to dramas, these must-watch TV series offer a diverse range of female characters, exploring themes of empowerment, resilience, and social issues. Whether you’re looking for a thought-provoking drama or a light-hearted comedy, these shows provide a wonderful escape with relatable and inspiring female protagonists. So, grab your popcorn, take your seat, and get ready to be entertained and empowered by these exceptional TV series.

FAQ

1. Are these TV series suitable for all age groups?

While most of these series are suitable for adult audiences, some may contain mature themes and content. It is advisable to check the content ratings and reviews for each show before watching.

2. Where can I watch these TV series?

These TV series are available on various streaming platforms such as Amazon Prime, Netflix, HBO, BBC America, and Hulu. Each show may require a subscription to the respective platform.

3. Can men also enjoy these TV series?

Absolutely! While these shows are curated with a focus on empowering women, they offer compelling storytelling and complex characters that can be enjoyed by people of all genders.

4. Are there any other TV series that can be added to this list?

Certainly! This list is not exhaustive, and there are many other TV series that empower and entertain women. Feel free to explore and share your favorites with us.