If you’re feeling nostalgic, you might catch yourself thinking back to the movies and TV shows that shaped your younger years. These were the stories that introduced unforgettable characters—some almost larger than life. They came in the form of goddesses, witches, and superheroes, leaving lasting impressions on our culture. These iconic figures became the women many of us admired, feared, or even wished to become.
Here, we’re revisiting 18 legendary female roles from film, stage, and television to see how they’ve evolved over time. Of course, this list is just the beginning—there are countless other characters who could easily belong here. Share your thoughts in the comments: Who would you add? Who might you remove? Let’s lay it all out and celebrate these unforgettable women together.
#1 Wonder Woman
These days, it’s nearly impossible to scroll through your feed, flip a channel, or walk past a movie poster without spotting Gal Gadot suited up as Wonder Woman—shield raised, blocking attacks, and charging fearlessly into battle.
Topping our list is none other than Princess Diana of Themyscira, better known as Wonder Woman. She first appeared in comics back in October 1941, just months before Pearl Harbor, when America was searching for a symbol of hope. With her blend of strength, compassion, and elegance, she became exactly that.
The character was reportedly inspired by Elizabeth Marston, the wife of creator William Marston, and their partner Olive Byrne, making Wonder Woman a powerful figure both on the page and in cultural history as a feminist icon.
Many still recall the classic TV portrayal by Lynda Carter, which defined the role for decades—until Gal Gadot’s unforgettable performance brought the Amazon warrior to a new generation. Along the way, others like Michelle Monaghan, Rosario Dawson, and Lucy Lawless have also stepped into Diana’s boots.