Fans love to get behind a strong leader who is competent in their role by getting the job done. Although women have found equality in TV roles, sci-fi was ahead of the game, showing women in powerful positions in not only our world but in worlds beyond the stars.
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You don't have to be in a traditional leadership role to lead and have others follow, either. Sometimes those intangible leadership qualities are evident to those around them, and they earn respect just by doing what they do best.
Here are some of the toughest chicks in sci-fi, showing that leaders can't be just physically strong, but mentally strong too. Do you have a favorite woman on a science fiction show who belongs on the list? See if your favorite leader made the cut.
If they didn't, tell us your favorites in the comments! While you're here, be sure to catch up on all your favorite sci-fi shows right here on TV Fanatic.
1. Dutch - Killjoys
Born as Yalena to a wealthy family, Dutch's life has been anything but easy. After her family lost everything, she began her combat training at the tender age of eight, making her the strongest killjoy in the RAC. Her strength is only a part of what makes her a good leader. She shows respect to all walks of life and earns the respect she gets back. Plus, she's smart as a whip, making her a valuable leader and partner with the Jaqobis.
2. Olivia Dunham - Fringe
FBI special agent, Olivia Dunham, will go to any lengths to get the job done. Even if that includes dropping acid and locking herself in a deprivation tank. She may be extreme at times, but it works for her. She has a kind heart and is essential to lead the charge in solving the Fringe mystery alongside Peter, Walter, and Astrid.
3. Daenerys Targaryen - Game of Thrones
Starting out as a piece of meat, given to Khal Drogo as payment for an army by her brother, Daenerys Targaryen has come a long way. After Drogo's death, she started to come into her own and, when her dragons are born, the Dothraki proclaimed her as their queen. Her leadership grew in time with her dragon babies.
4. Dana Scully - The X-Files
Scully, the ever-present skeptic, keeping Mulder's feet on the ground. Sometimes. She doesn't just fall in line with whatever Mulder believes about the X-files. If she did, the pair wouldn't discover as many secrets. Luckily, Scully's her own person and is only swayed when all evidence shows faulty.
5. Zoe Washburne - Firefly
Zoe is a lethal fighter and a loyal first mate, but she's not afraid to disobey orders with which she doesn't agree. That doesn't make her a lousy crew member; it means she has her own mind and isn't afraid to use it. Those are good qualities in a leader.
6. River Song - Doctor Who
River Song, aka Melody Pond, was the wife of the Doctor. She not only traveled with the Doctor, she too has Time Lord DNA. Even though she was brainwashed to kill the Doctor, and did, her cunning brought him back. She fought countless enemies, ultimately sacrificing herself for her husband, the Doctor.
