Women’s History Month: 15 most influential women in TV history

Lucy Liu

Since her breakout role as Ling Woo on Ally McBeal (1998), Lucy Liu has transitioned from superstar to respected artist and director. Probably one of the most recognizable faces in Hollywood, the Chinese-American actress was able to transcend the cultural stereotyping and under-representation that plagues the Asian community in Hollywood.

While she often portrays characters that acknowledge or are shaped by their ancestry, her characters are rarely defined by it. She has appeared in numerous hit television shows — notably as a genderbent Dr. Watson in Elementary (2012). She’s also appeared in several blockbuster movies.

Liu not only challenges Asian stereotypes, but also traditional gender roles. She opts for strong, rational, and intimidating characters. She utilizes her naturally dry and restrained delivery to reinforce her strength.

HBO

Lena Dunham

Love her or hate her, Lena Dunham is one of the most unique and outspoken voices in modern entertainment. As a writer/producer/director/actor, Dunham uses her popular TV series Girls (2012) to explore controversial issues of sexism, gender roles, and sexuality.

The show portrays young women who maybe don’t have everything figured out yet. Girls who make bad decisions, who aren’t in their best place in life. According to Dunham, Girls is about the place between Sex and the City and Gossip Girls — where realistic women have realistic problems.

It can be gritty and uncomfortable, and a lot of people dislike Dunham for that discomfort and her outspokenness. Dunham is currently writing an adaptation of a British series called Camping. It stars Jennifer Garner and premieres on HBO.