The top 5 best written female characters of the Marvel Cinematic Universe

The Marvel Cinematic Universe
The Marvel Cinematic Universe's leading ladies: The top 5 best written female characters who are fierce, complex, and inspiring (Image via Sportskeeda)

The Marvel Cinematic Universe has grown into a cultural phenomenon, attracting a massive following. With its compelling storylines, incredible special effects, and an ever-expanding cast of characters, the MCU has cemented its place in popular culture as one of the most successful movie franchises ever.

While the franchise is known for its impressive roster of male superheroes, the well-written female characters have captured audiences' attention and left a lasting impression. From the fiercely independent Black Widow to the genius inventor Shuri, the MCU has introduced some of the most complex and powerful female characters in any movie franchise.

These characters have proven that women can be just as capable and compelling as their male counterparts in the superhero genre and have become role models for countless fans around the world.


Black Widow, Shuri, and 3 other best-written female characters of the Marvel Cinematic Universe

1) Peggy Carter

Agent Peggy Carter: A trailblazing spy and a force to be reckoned with (Image via Marvel Studios)
Agent Peggy Carter: A trailblazing spy and a force to be reckoned with (Image via Marvel Studios)

Peggy Carter is a character that embodies the strength and resilience of women. From her first appearance in Captain America: The First Avenger, Peggy quickly became a fan favorite due to her unwavering determination and quick wit.

Her character was not defined solely by her relationship with Steve Rogers but by her skills and abilities as a British agent. Peggy is a strong, independent woman who speaks her mind and is respected by her peers, making her a great role model for fans of the MCU.

Furthermore, Peggy's character development throughout the MCU has been a testament to the strength of her character. From her initial role as an ally of Captain America to her later appearances on Agent Carter and What If? Peggy has been a consistent example of a capable, independent woman.


2) Black Widow

The fearless Avenger: Black Widow (Image via Marvel Studios)
The fearless Avenger: Black Widow (Image via Marvel Studios)

Black Widow is a character who has consistently broken the mold of typical female superheroes. She is not just a pretty face but a highly skilled fighter and a strategic mastermind. Despite her complex past as a former KGB agent, she continues to fight for what is right and for those she cares about.

What sets Black Widow apart from other female superheroes is that she is not defined solely by her s*x appeal or romantic relationships. Instead, she is a well-rounded character with a complex backstory and a unique set of skills.

Her unwavering loyalty to her friends, intelligence, and ability to adapt to any situation has made her an integral part of the Avengers. Scarlett Johansson's portrayal of Black Widow has made her an iconic character in the MCU and a true inspiration for women everywhere.


3) Gamora

The deadliest woman in the galaxy: Gamora of the Guardians of the Galaxy (Image via Marvel Studios)
The deadliest woman in the galaxy: Gamora of the Guardians of the Galaxy (Image via Marvel Studios)

Gamora, portrayed by Zoe Saldana, is a pivotal member of the Guardians of the Galaxy. Her character arc is one of the most intriguing in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, as she is the daughter of the infamous villain Thanos.

Despite her tumultuous past, she has become a hero in her own right, fighting for what she believes in and rebelling against her father's wishes. Her emotional complexity sets her apart from other female characters in the MCU as she grapples with the weight of her past while trying to forge a new path for herself.

Gamora's character is not defined solely by her physical prowess or relationship with Peter Quill but by her agency and emotional depth. Her journey from villain to hero is a testament to the power of redemption, and her struggles with loyalty and identity make her a relatable and compelling character.


4) Shuri

Wakanda's tech genius: Shuri, the mastermind behind the Black Panther's gadgets (Image via Marvel Studios)
Wakanda's tech genius: Shuri, the mastermind behind the Black Panther's gadgets (Image via Marvel Studios)

Shuri is one of the standout characters in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. As the younger sister of T'Challa (Black Panther), she is a genius inventor who creates some of the most advanced technologies in the MCU. Shuri's character is not defined by her physical abilities but by her intelligence and creativity.

She is a relatable and inspiring female character, respected by her peers and beloved by fans. Shuri's role as a brilliant and capable character challenges the traditional gender roles in superhero films.

She is a great role model for young girls interested in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields. Her character is a refreshing addition to the MCU and demonstrates a need for more female characters to break away from the stereotypical gender roles often seen in superhero films.


5) Okoye

Dora Milaje leader and fierce warrior: Okoye, protector of Wakanda (Image via Marvel Studios)
Dora Milaje leader and fierce warrior: Okoye, protector of Wakanda (Image via Marvel Studios)

Okoye is an exceptional character in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Her fierce demeanor and a strong sense of duty make her a standout figure. As the leader of Dora Milaje, she is responsible for keeping the Wakandan royal family safe and protected. Despite being fiercely loyal to her country, Okoye is not afraid to challenge authority or speak her mind when she feels it is necessary.

Danai Gurira's portrayal of Okoye is powerful and engaging, making her one of the most memorable characters in the MCU. She embodies the ideals of loyalty, courage, and conviction while demonstrating that a female character can be complex and multidimensional in an action-packed film.


The Marvel Cinematic Universe has created some of the most well-written female characters in any movie franchise. From Peggy Carter to Okoye, these characters are strong, complex, and multifaceted. They are not defined solely by their physical abilities or s*xuality but by their intelligence, creativity, and emotional depth.

These female characters have become role models for fans worldwide and have shown that women can be just as powerful and capable as men in the superhero genre.

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