Empowering Women on Screen: Key Highlights of Female-Centric Television in 2017

2017 was a milestone year for female-centric television, showcasing diverse stories of women overcoming challenges, leading with strength, and redefining gender roles. From comedy to drama, the year introduced acclaimed series like The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, The Crown, and Big Little Lies that highlighted female empowerment and complex characters. These shows played a significant role in shifting cultural perceptions about women, inspiring audiences worldwide and paving the way for more inclusive content in television. This review covers the most influential series of 2017, emphasizing their contributions to gender representation and storytelling excellence.

Empowering Women on Screen: Key Highlights of Female-Centric Television in 2017

2017 proved to be an extraordinary year for female representation in television. As the global movement towards gender equality and feminism gained substantial momentum, television studios and creators responded by producing an abundance of content that spotlighted complex, diverse, and powerful female characters. This shift signaled a significant cultural moment, as on-screen women were no longer confined to traditional roles or stereotypes but were portrayed as multifaceted individuals with agency, resilience, and influence.

Throughout 2017, viewers were treated to an impressive roster of female-centric TV series spanning various genres—from comedy and drama to thriller and historical fiction. These shows not only garnered critical acclaim and numerous awards but also contributed to changing perceptions and inspiring audiences worldwide. The increase in female-led narratives reflected broader societal conversations about gender equity, representation, and empowerment, making 2017 a landmark year for women in television.

Highlighting the Most Impactful Female-Focused TV Series of 2017

The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel

Set against the backdrop of late 1950s New York City, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel quickly became a cultural phenomenon. Starring Rachel Brosnahan as Midge Maisel, the series chronicles the journey of a housewife who discovers her innate talent for stand-up comedy amidst traditional societal expectations. This witty and compelling show expertly blends humor with meaningful themes of female emancipation and independence. Its vibrant portrayal of the era’s cultural nuances, combined with sharp writing and exceptional performances, earned it multiple accolades, including two Golden Globe Awards. By showcasing a woman’s pursuit of her dreams against considerable societal odds, the series served as an inspiring narrative about finding one’s voice and breaking barriers.

Shameless

Set in Chicago’s tough South Side neighborhood, Shameless presents an unflinching look into the chaotic yet captivating lives of the Gallagher family. Centering on Fiona Gallagher, portrayed with depth and nuance by Emmy Rossum, the series explores themes of resilience, independence, and flawed human experiences. Fiona’s character embodies female strength amid adversity, navigating relationships, financial hardships, and personal growth. Rossum’s involvement behind the scenes as a director, together with the series’ raw storytelling, makes Shameless a powerful portrayal of realistic female struggles, triumphs, and complexities. Its honest depiction contributes significantly to the dialogue on women’s diverse experiences in contemporary society.

The Crown

Netflix’s The Crown offers a dramatized yet meticulously researched portrayal of Queen Elizabeth II’s reign, capturing her political challenges, personal sacrifices, and leadership qualities. The series emphasizes female leadership, resilience, and grace in navigating the demands of monarchy and state affairs. Throughout its seasons, The Crown underscores the difficulties faced by women in positions of power, illustrating their capacity to balance duty with personal life, often under intense scrutiny. By portraying a female monarch with dignity and strength, the series not only celebrates women’s leadership but also provides a nuanced perspective on the sacrifices and resilience required to uphold their responsibilities.

Big Little Lies

Based in an affluent Californian community, Big Little Lies dives into the layered lives of women confronting complex family dynamics, secrets, and internal conflicts. The series, featuring stellar performances from Reese Witherspoon and Nicole Kidman, delves deeply into themes of female empowerment, psychological depth, and societal expectations. What begins as a domestic drama gradually transforms into a suspenseful thriller, revealing the layers of women’s lives, desires, and vulnerabilities. Its compelling storytelling challenges stereotypes and highlights the strength found in vulnerability, friendship, and honesty. The series remains a standout depiction of modern womanhood and resilience.

Additional Noteworthy Series from 2017 include:

Handmaid’s Tale - A dystopian take on women’s rights and rebellion

13 Reasons Why - Exploring trauma, mental health, and female perspectives

Grace and Frankie - Celebrating aging and friendship among women

Orange is The New Black - Female narratives set in a prison environment

Veep - Political satire with strong female leadership

How To Get Away With Murder - Female-led legal drama

Big Mouth - Animation with themes of adolescence and female sexuality

Bold Type - Spotlight on young women pursuing careers in media

GLOW - Female wrestlers breaking stereotypes

The Sinner - Psychological thrillers featuring complex female characters

Bomb Girls - WW2-era story of women working in munitions factories

Insecure - Modern exploration of Black women’s friendship and personal growth

Crazy Ex-Girlfriend - Romantic comedy addressing mental health and identity

Better Things - A raw depiction of a single mother’s life

Harlots - Historical drama about women’s lives in 18th-century London

For viewers seeking inspiring, diverse, and empowering stories centered on women, 2017 provided an abundance of options to binge-watch and find inspiration in real and fictional narratives alike. This year solidified the importance and popularity of female-driven stories, setting a new standard for inclusive and representative television programming.