Representation in science fiction and fantasy has had a complex and often problematic history, particularly for Black women. So when we get to see black women represented in a genre that has often been closed off to us, we get super excited and protective of the characters and the women who represent them. Here is a list of some of our favorites in no particular order:
Gwen (Merlin)
Gwen is such a standout character and Angel Coulby brought so much depth to Gwen, making her a compelling mix of strength, vulnerability, and nobility. It’s powerful when a character breaks through stereotypes and shows a broader spectrum of what a Black woman can be in fantasy.
Gwen’s journey in Merlin—from a humble maid to the Queen who plays a pivotal role in the kingdom’s destiny—is a testament to the complex and multifaceted roles that Black women can embody on screen. She wasn’t just a supporting character but a central figure whose actions and decisions were crucial to the story’s outcome. Her character arc provided not only emotional depth but also a refreshing and impactful presence in a genre where such representation has been historically limited. Characters like Gwen show that narratives can evolve and expand, allowing for more diverse and empowering portrayals. It’s stories like hers that help pave the way for broader acceptance and understanding.
Zoe (Firefly)
Gina Torres’s portrayal of Zoe Washburne in Firefly is iconic and Zoe is indeed a remarkable character—strong, capable, and deeply nuanced. Her presence on the ship and her dynamic with Wash provided a powerful combination of strength and tenderness.
Zoe’s character defies many of the usual tropes, balancing her role as a formidable leader with her personal life and relationships. It’s not just about being strong; it’s about having depth and complexity, which Gina Torres brought beautifully to the role. Her portrayal demonstrated that a Black woman could be both a fierce warrior and a loving partner, challenging stereotypes and broadening the scope of what’s possible for Black women in sci-fi. Zoe’s relationship with Wash is especially significant because it shows that a character can be both a warrior and a loving partner without losing her agency or strength. It’s a great example of how diverse and rich portrayals can enrich a story, offering multiple dimensions to a character that might otherwise be simplified. Gina Torres’s performance was truly groundbreaking, and Zoe remains a beloved character for many fans, partly because of the way she showcased such a balanced and powerful portrayal.
Abbie (Sleepy Hollow)
Sleepy Hollow had a lot of promise, especially with Nicole Beharie’s portrayal of Abbie Mills. Her character was a standout, blending complexity with strength in ways that were both refreshing and compelling. Abbie was more than just a sidekick or a love interest; she was a fully realized individual with her own backstory, struggles, and growth. Her experiences with her family, especially her mother’s mental illness and her relationship with her sister Jenny, added significant depth to her character. Her humor and resilience were highlights that made her relatable and engaging. The decision to write Abbie out of the show was met with a lot of disappointment from fans, as it undermined the character dynamics and narrative that had been built up. Without her, the show lost a significant part of its core appeal and impact. The drop in quality after her departure and the subsequent cancellation of the series seemed to confirm what many fans had feared: that Abbie’s presence was integral to the show’s success. Nicole Beharie’s performance as Abbie Mills was a standout, and the character’s departure left a void that was never quite filled. It’s a reminder of how crucial strong, well-rounded characters and their portrayals are to the success and integrity of a show.
Martha Jones (Doctor Who)
Martha Jones is an underrated gem in Doctor Who. There was definitely a lot of backlash against Martha when she first appeared, often compared unfavorably to Rose Tyler. But Martha’s storyline deserves a lot more recognition and respect. She was introduced to the Doctor at a time when she was dealing with her own emotional struggles and seeking adventure and escape. The Doctor’s attention and the thrill of traveling through time and space were understandably appealing. The fact that she developed feelings for him wasn’t something to fault her for, especially given how complicated and emotionally charged her experiences were. Martha’s strengths go beyond her feelings for the Doctor. She’s incredibly resourceful, brave, and compassionate, with her own compelling backstory as a medical student who saves lives. Her character also showed resilience in the face of being overshadowed by the Doctor’s previous companions. In the end, Martha’s arc was about her personal growth and self-worth, breaking away from the Doctor’s shadow to forge her own path and make a significant impact on her world. Her final scene, where she walks away from the Doctor to pursue her own life and career, is a powerful testament to her strength and self-respect. Martha’s journey highlights her as a strong, independent character who grows and evolves, proving that she was never the "worst" but rather an essential part of the show's rich tapestry.
Bonnie Bennett (Vampire Diaries)
Bonnie Bennett from The Vampire Diaries is such a compelling character, and it’s incredibly frustrating how her potential was so often underutilized on the show. Despite the show’s tendency to sideline her, Bonnie’s strength, loyalty, and resilience shone through, making her a standout character for many fans. It’s clear that Bonnie’s character had immense potential that wasn’t fully realized. Her role as a powerful witch who often saved the day and her undeniable charisma were frequently overshadowed by the central focus on Elena and Caroline. It’s especially glaring when you compare her to her white book counterpart, who was given more romantic agency and narrative focus. This discrepancy highlights how racial dynamics and representation can impact character development and screen time.
Bonnie’s ability to rise above the poor writing and character treatment is a testament to her strength and to the talent of Kat Graham, who brought so much depth to the role. Bonnie’s loyalty to her friends, her immense magical power, and her determination to overcome obstacles made her an essential part of the show, even if the writing didn’t always reflect that. In the face of being sidelined, Bonnie’s character growth and moments of heroism are a powerful reminder of how strong and multifaceted she is. She’s a testament to the strength of her character and to the resilience of characters who endure despite being underappreciated. Bonnie’s journey as a powerful witch and her ability to rise above the challenges thrown at her make her a favorite and an inspiration for many fans.
Uhura (Star Trek)
Nyota Uhura is truly a groundbreaking character with a legacy that continues to inspire and resonate today. Nichelle Nichols’s portrayal of Uhura on Star Trek was revolutionary not just for its time, but it remains influential in how we view representation in science fiction.
Nichols’s role as the starship Enterprise’s communications officer was remarkable for several reasons. First, she broke significant barriers by portraying a Black woman in a high-ranking, respected role in a futuristic setting. Uhura was not just a side character or a token presence; she was integral to the team and a symbol of progress and equality. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s encouragement for Nichols to stay on the show underscores the profound impact of her role. King saw Star Trek as a positive representation of racial equality, which was significant during a time when such portrayals were rare. Nichols’s role was groundbreaking not only for its visibility but also for its representation of a future where people of all races could hold positions of respect and authority. Her influence extends beyond her own role. Nichols’s impact can be seen in how she inspired future actors and characters within the Star Trek universe, such as Sonequa Martin-Green’s Michael Burnham in Star Trek: Discovery. Martin-Green’s character continues the legacy of strong, complex Black women in the franchise, demonstrating how Uhura’s trailblazing work has paved the way for new generations. Uhura’s enduring significance is a testament to the power of representation and the importance of having diverse characters who break stereotypes and offer new possibilities. Her legacy is not just in the character she portrayed but in the doors she opened for others in the realm of science fiction and beyond.
Michonne (The Walking Dead)
Michonne Grimes is a truly remarkable character in The Walking Dead universe, and her journey is both compelling and deeply impactful. Her evolution from a solitary, ruthless warrior to a central figure in the series highlights her resilience, strength, and capacity for growth as well as the brilliance of Danai Gurira. Initially introduced as a lone survivor with a dark past, Michonne's character arc takes her through significant transformations. After the loss of her boyfriend and son, she becomes a formidable warrior, honing her skills with a katana and navigating the harsh realities of the post-apocalyptic world. Her early interactions with Andrea, particularly during their time in Woodbury, are pivotal in showing her vulnerability and humanity, breaking through the hardened exterior she had developed. Michonne’s entry into Rick Grimes’s group marks a turning point. Despite initial mistrust, she quickly proves her value and becomes a core member of the team. Her bond with Rick, as well as her role as a surrogate mother to Carl and Judith, showcases her capacity for loyalty and leadership. Her relationship with Rick evolves into a deep partnership, culminating in their eventual marriage and co-leadership of the Alexandria Safe Zone. The emotional weight of Michonne’s journey is further highlighted by the profound losses she endures, including Carl’s death, and the challenges of raising her children while dealing with the constant threats of their world. Her decision to leave her family in search of Rick, driven by newfound hope and evidence of his survival, underscores her determination and love. Michonne's eventual return home to her children and Rick symbolizes a powerful and fulfilling conclusion to her story arc. Her character is a testament to the strength and resilience of a woman who has faced unimaginable hardship and still managed to hold onto hope and love.
Michonne Grimes stands out not only for her combat skills and leadership but also for her emotional depth and the complex, rich narrative that defines her character.
Michael Burnham (Star Trek Discovery)
Sonequa Martin-Green's role as Michael Burnham in Star Trek: Discovery is historic and significant for several reasons. By becoming the first Black woman to lead a Star Trek series, she has made a profound impact on the franchise and its representation. Michael Burnham's journey from being a mutineer to becoming the Captain of the USS Discovery is a central theme of the show. Her character embodies resilience, intelligence, and a deep commitment to Starfleet’s ideals. Her rise to captaincy not only marks a major milestone in the series but also reflects a broader commitment to diversity and inclusion within the Star Trek universe. Star Trek has always been known for its progressive vision, but Discovery takes this further by featuring a Black woman in a lead role and portraying her as a complex and capable leader. Michael Burnham's character is multifaceted, grappling with her past, her relationships, and her responsibilities, which adds depth and relatability to her role. Sonequa Martin-Green's passion for the Star Trek franchise and her role as Michael Burnham is evident. Her dedication to the character and the series has resonated with fans, enhancing the show's connection to its audience. Her performances and engagement with the fan community have reinforced the positive impact of her portrayal. Martin-Green’s groundbreaking role is not just about representation within Star Trek but also about influencing the broader landscape of television and media. Her leadership role helps pave the way for more diverse characters and stories, challenging and expanding the boundaries of who can lead and how they are portrayed.
Overall, Sonequa Martin-Green's contributions to Star Trek: Discovery have been transformative, enriching the franchise with a new dimension of representation and storytelling. Her role as Michael Burnham stands as a testament to the power of diversity in media and the importance of strong, multifaceted characters.
Whoopi Goldberg (Star Trek Next Generation)
Guinan, as portrayed by Whoopi Goldberg in Star Trek: The Next Generation, is a fascinating and multi-dimensional character. Her role as the enigmatic and wise bartender of Ten Forward was much more than a casual position; she was a crucial and deeply insightful presence on the USS Enterprise-D.
Centuries of Wisdom: Guinan’s long life as an El-Aurian granted her a unique and broad perspective, which enriched her interactions with the crew. Her extensive experiences and understanding of the universe provided invaluable counsel, making her more than just a background character. The relationship between Guinan and Captain Jean-Luc Picard is particularly intriguing. Their connection, which dates back to a meeting in 19th-century San Francisco, adds layers of depth to their interactions. This historical link adds an element of continuity and shared understanding between them, allowing Guinan to offer Picard advice that is both personal and profound. Guinan’s complex nature is evident in her reactions to characters and situations. Her deep-seated aversion to Q and the Borg reflects her personal history and experiences, adding a rich layer to her character. While her dislike of these entities might cloud her judgment at times, it also highlights her emotional depth and the impact of her long life on her perceptions. Despite her official role as a bartender, Guinan’s advice was highly respected by the crew. Her insights were sought in critical situations, whether it was dealing with the existential threat of the Borg or debating the nuances of Data’s humanity. This respect underscores her role as a pivotal figure in guiding the crew through their challenges.
Guinan’s character, portrayed by Whoopi Goldberg, also represents an important moment in television history by providing a strong, complex Black woman in a science fiction series. Her presence and role helped to broaden the scope of representation in the genre, and she remains a beloved and influential character for many fans. Overall, Guinan’s character brings a rich blend of wisdom, mystery, and emotional depth to Star Trek: The Next Generation. Her interactions with the crew, especially Picard, and her role as a confidante and advisor make her an essential part of the series’ narrative.
Iris West-Allen (The Flash)
Iris West-Allen in The Flash is a character who has faced significant challenges in terms of how she’s been written and represented. It’s a testament to the strength and depth of the character—and the performance of Candice Patton—that she has managed to shine despite these obstacles. Iris has often been underutilized in the series, with her role frequently being overshadowed by the show's focus on Barry Allen and the larger superhero elements. The CW’s track record with writing women of color has often been criticized, and Iris’s portrayal has sometimes fallen victim to these broader issues. Additionally, as a race-bent version of a classic comic book character, Iris has had to navigate the challenges of being part of a contentious adaptation while facing the backlash and scrutiny that can come with it.
Despite these challenges, Iris has proven to be a standout character. Her dedication to her work as a journalist, her commitment to the team, and her bravery in dangerous situations showcase her strength and heroism. Her role as a leader and her ability to provide crucial support to Barry and the rest of Team Flash highlight her value beyond just being a love interest.
Over time, Iris has grown into one of the more compelling characters on the show. Her journey from being sidelined to becoming a central figure with her own significant contributions and leadership moments is a testament to her resilience and the character’s potential. Her commitment to fighting alongside her team and her development as a character who holds her own in a world of superpowered beings is commendable. Iris’s role is also important in terms of representation. She serves as a powerful example of a Black woman who is integral to a superhero narrative, even when the show’s writing doesn’t always do her justice. Her presence in the series is a significant step forward in diversifying the types of characters and stories portrayed in mainstream media. Iris West-Allen, as portrayed by Candice Patton, embodies bravery, leadership, and dedication. Her ability to remain a strong and integral character despite the challenges she faces in terms of writing and representation speaks to the depth and strength of her role.
That's it. Some of our favorite black female characters in science fiction. Did your favorite make the list? Drop a comment.
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