#12 Lara Croft
Adventure has a name, and it’s Lara Croft. Emerging from the world of video games in the mid-1990s, Lara quickly became one of the most influential female characters in gaming history, inspiring countless players with her intelligence, athleticism, and fearless exploration of dangerous tombs and hidden civilizations. Her impact extended far beyond consoles, turning her into a pop culture icon and paving the way for a multi-billion-dollar franchise that includes games, comics, and films.
Angelina Jolie brought Lara Croft to life in the early 2000s, delivering a performance that balanced physical prowess with magnetic charisma, making her one of the most memorable action heroines on the big screen. Since then, the character has been reimagined by Alicia Vikander, Rachel Appleton, Emily Carey, and Minnie Driver, each adding their own spin while keeping Lara’s bold, adventurous spirit alive. Lara Croft remains a symbol of courage, independence, and the limitless potential of a strong female protagonist.