The Powerhouses: 20 Best 'Game of Thrones' Female Characters Ranked

Throughout its tenure, Game of Thrones enthralled audiences worldwide with its intricate plotlines, dynamic characters, and shocking twists. Among the show’s many strengths were its compelling female characters, who played pivotal roles in shaping the narrative and captivating viewers. From fierce warriors to cunning strategists, these women left an indelible mark on the series, earning both admiration and acclaim from fans. In this article, we’ll delve into the top 20 female characters from Game of Thrones, celebrating their complexity, resilience, and enduring legacy.

1. Daenerys Targaryen: The Conqueror

Game of Thrones Female Characters wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Daenerys Targaryen, portrayed by Emilia Clarke. As the last scion of House Targaryen, Daenerys emerges as a symbol of hope and liberation in a world plagued by chaos and oppression. Her journey from a vulnerable exile to a formidable queen is marked by moments of triumph and tragedy, culminating in her iconic quest for the Iron Throne. Despite the controversial finale, Daenerys remains a towering figure in the pantheon of Game of Thrones characters, embodying both the allure of power and the perils of unchecked ambition.

2. Cersei Lannister: The Lioness of the Rock

Few characters in Game of Thrones evoke as much fascination and dread as Cersei Lannister, portrayed by Lena Headey. As the cunning and manipulative matriarch of House Lannister, Cersei navigates the treacherous corridors of power with ruthless efficiency, driven by a singular desire for dominance. Despite her morally dubious actions, Cersei’s complexity and vulnerability make her a compelling antagonist, blurring the lines between villainy and tragedy. Lena Headey’s portrayal elevates Cersei to iconic status, solidifying her legacy as one of television’s most memorable characters.

3. Sansa Stark: The Phoenix of Winterfell

Sophie Turner’s portrayal of Sansa Stark traces a remarkable arc of growth and resilience amidst adversity. From her early days as a naive noblewoman to her eventual rise as the Queen in the North, Sansa undergoes a profound transformation, shedding her innocence to embrace her inner strength. Despite enduring unimaginable trauma and betrayal, Sansa emerges as a shrewd and formidable leader, guided by her unwavering determination to reclaim her agency. Turner’s nuanced performance imbues Sansa with depth and complexity, earning her a place among the series’ most beloved characters.

4. Margaery Tyrell: The Mistress of Manipulation

Natalie Dormer’s portrayal of Margaery Tyrell is a masterclass in political intrigue and manipulation. As the consummate player in the game of thrones, Margaery navigates the treacherous waters of courtly politics with grace and cunning, wielding her charm and wit as weapons of influence. Despite facing numerous obstacles and adversaries, Margaery remains unfailingly resilient, always one step ahead of her rivals. Dormer’s magnetic performance brings Margaery to life with captivating allure, cementing her status as one of the series’ most captivating characters.

5. Olenna Tyrell: The Queen of Thorns

Diana Rigg’s portrayal of Olenna Tyrell is a testament to wit, wisdom, and sharp-tongued brilliance. As the matriarch of House Tyrell, Olenna commands respect and fear in equal measure, using her cunning and intellect to outmaneuver her enemies. Whether orchestrating political machinations or dispensing cutting remarks, Olenna leaves an indelible impression on Game of Thrones, shaping the fate of kingdoms with her unyielding resolve. Rigg’s impeccable delivery infuses Olenna with unparalleled charisma, making her a fan favorite and a force to be reckoned with.

6. Arya Stark: The Sword of the North

Maisie Williams’ portrayal of Arya Stark is a testament to resilience, courage, and unwavering determination. From her early days as a spirited tomboy to her transformation into a lethal assassin, Arya’s journey is marked by hardship and triumph. Armed with her trusty sword Needle and a thirst for vengeance, Arya navigates the treacherous landscape of Westeros with steely resolve, leaving a trail of enemies in her wake. Williams’ portrayal captures Arya’s complexity and ferocity with unmatched intensity, earning her acclaim as one of the series’ standout characters.

7. Brienne of Tarth: The Knight of Honor

Gwendoline Christie’s portrayal of Brienne of Tarth embodies valor, integrity, and unwavering loyalty. As the sole female knight in Westeros, Brienne defies gender norms and societal expectations, forging her path with courage and determination. Her quest for honor and duty takes her across the realm, where she faces adversity with stoic resolve and unyielding strength. Christie’s performance infuses Brienne with depth and vulnerability, showcasing her as a beacon of righteousness in a world consumed by darkness.

8. Melisandre: The Red Priestess

Carice van Houten’s portrayal of Melisandre is a testament to mystique, fervor, and unwavering faith. As the enigmatic Red Priestess, Melisandre serves as a vessel for divine intervention, wielding dark magic and prophetic visions to shape the fate of nations. Despite her ambiguous morality and controversial methods, Melisandre remains a formidable presence in the Game of Thrones universe, her actions leaving a lasting impact on the course of history. Van Houten’s haunting performance imbues Melisandre with otherworldly allure, captivating audiences with her mystic allure.

9. Catelyn Stark: The Matron of the North

Michelle Fairley’s portrayal of Catelyn Stark embodies maternal strength, resilience, and unwavering devotion. As the matriarch of House Stark, Catelyn navigates the complexities of power and honor with grace and dignity, her love for her family driving her actions at every turn. Despite facing tragedy and loss, Catelyn remains steadfast in her convictions, her unwavering resolve shaping the destiny of House Stark. Fairley’s nuanced performance infuses Catelyn with depth and humanity, making her a beloved figure in the Game of Thrones saga.

10. Missandei: The Voice of Compassion

Nathalie Emmanuel’s portrayal of Missandei is a testament to grace, empathy, and unwavering loyalty. As Daenerys Targaryen’s trusted advisor and confidante, Missandei serves as a beacon of compassion and wisdom in a world ravaged by conflict. Her unwavering dedication to Daenerys and her cause earns her respect and admiration, her quiet strength shaping the course of history. Emmanuel’s heartfelt performance infuses Missandei with warmth and sincerity, making her a beloved figure in the Game of Thrones universe.

11. Osha: The Wildling Protector

Natalia Tena’s portrayal of Osha embodies resilience, cunning, and fierce independence. As a wildling woman thrust into the heart of conflict, Osha navigates the dangers of Westeros with savvy and resourcefulness, her loyalty to Bran and Rickon driving her actions at every turn. Despite facing insurmountable odds and enduring unimaginable hardships, Osha remains steadfast in her commitment to protect those under her care. Her journey from captive to protector is marked by moments of sacrifice and bravery, her unwavering resolve inspiring those around her. Tena’s portrayal infuses Osha with depth and nuance, capturing the essence of a woman determined to defy the odds and carve her path in a world ruled by chaos.

12. Ros: The Survivor of the Streets

Esmé Bianco’s portrayal of Ros offers a glimpse into the harsh realities of life in Westeros, where survival often hinges on wit and cunning. As a Northern prostitute thrust into the dangerous world of political intrigue, Ros navigates the treacherous landscape of King’s Landing with resilience and adaptability. Her journey from the streets to the highest echelons of power is marked by moments of triumph and tragedy, her sharp intellect and quick wit serving as her most potent weapons. Bianco’s portrayal infuses Ros with depth and vulnerability, portraying her as a survivor determined to defy the odds and seize control of her destiny.

13. Yara Greyjoy: The Ironborn Rebel

Gemma Whelan’s portrayal of Yara Greyjoy captures the spirit of defiance and independence synonymous with the Ironborn. As the fierce and determined daughter of Balon Greyjoy, Yara defies gender norms and societal expectations to carve her path in a world dominated by patriarchal traditions. Her unwavering loyalty to her family and her people drives her actions, propelling her on a quest for redemption and self-discovery. Whelan’s portrayal infuses Yara with strength and resilience, showcasing her as a formidable warrior and a beacon of hope for the Iron Islands.

14. Ygritte: The Free-Spirited Wildling

Rose Leslie’s portrayal of Ygritte embodies the untamed spirit of the Free Folk, fierce and independent amidst a world of chaos and conflict. As a member of the Wildling community beyond the Wall, Ygritte navigates the harsh realities of life with wit and tenacity, her loyalty to her people unwavering in the face of adversity. Her budding romance with Jon Snow offers a glimpse into the complexities of love and loyalty amidst the backdrop of war and betrayal. Leslie’s portrayal infuses Ygritte with warmth and vitality, capturing the essence of a woman determined to live life on her terms, regardless of the consequences.

15. Lyanna Mormont: The Fearless Lady of Bear Island

Bella Ramsey’s portrayal of Lyanna Mormont showcases the indomitable spirit of a young leader thrust into the midst of conflict and turmoil. As the Lady of Bear Island, Lyanna commands respect and admiration from allies and adversaries alike, her unwavering courage and determination earning her a place among the realm’s most formidable figures. Her defiant stand against the forces of darkness during the Battle of Winterfell serves as a testament to her bravery and resilience, her sacrifice inspiring those around her to stand tall in the face of adversity. Ramsey’s portrayal infuses Lyanna with strength and conviction, portraying her as a beacon of hope in a world consumed by darkness.

16. Meera Reed: The Loyal Guardian

Ellie Kendrick’s portrayal of Meera Reed embodies the steadfast loyalty and unwavering resolve of a true guardian. As Bran Stark’s steadfast companion, Meera navigates the dangers of the North with courage and determination, her unwavering commitment to protect him driving her actions at every turn. Her selfless devotion to Bran’s cause earns her respect and admiration, her quiet strength serving as a source of inspiration for those around her. Kendrick’s portrayal infuses Meera with depth and vulnerability, portraying her as a woman determined to fulfill her duty, regardless of the personal cost.

17. Gilly: The Survivor of Craster’s Keep

Hannah Murray’s portrayal of Gilly offers a glimpse into the harsh realities faced by women in the unforgiving world of Westeros. As one of Craster’s daughters/wives, Gilly endures unimaginable mistreatment and abuse, her resilience and strength of character shining through in the face of adversity. Her journey from captivity to freedom is marked by moments of courage and defiance, her unwavering determination to protect her son driving her actions at every turn. Murray’s portrayal infuses Gilly with warmth and vulnerability, portraying her as a survivor determined to carve out a better life for herself and her child.

18. Shae: The Betrayed Lover

Sibel Kekilli’s portrayal of Shae offers a poignant exploration of love, betrayal, and sacrifice in the world of Game of Thrones. As Tyrion Lannister’s beloved companion, Shae navigates the treacherous landscape of King’s Landing with a mixture of naivety and street-smarts, her unwavering loyalty to Tyrion driving her actions at every turn. Yet, her ultimate betrayal of Tyrion serves as a tragic reminder of the harsh realities of their world, where love and loyalty often come at a steep price. Kekilli’s portrayal infuses Shae with depth and complexity, portraying her as a woman torn between her desires and her sense of duty, ultimately paying the ultimate price for her choices.

19. Ellaria Sand: The Vengeful Paramour

Indira Varma’s portrayal of Ellaria Sand offers a glimpse into the complexities of love, loss, and vengeance in the world of Game of Thrones. As Oberyn Martell’s passionate paramour, Ellaria’s quest for vengeance drives her to commit unspeakable acts of violence and betrayal, her thirst for retribution consuming her every thought and action. Yet, beneath her fierce exterior lies a woman driven by love and loyalty, her unwavering commitment to Oberyn’s memory shaping her destiny. Varma’s portrayal infuses Ellaria with intensity and conviction, portraying her as a force of nature determined to exact justice in a world ruled by chaos and cruelty.

20. Myranda: The Sinister Ally

Charlotte Hope’s portrayal of Myranda offers a chilling glimpse into the dark underbelly of Game of Thrones. As Ramsay Bolton’s twisted ally, Myranda revels in chaos and carnage, her sadistic nature driving her to commit unspeakable acts of cruelty and depravity. Yet, beneath her malevolent exterior lies a woman driven by a twisted sense of loyalty and devotion, her unwavering commitment to Ramsay’s cause shaping her fate. Hope’s portrayal infuses Myranda with menace and malice, portraying her as a sinister presence in a world consumed by darkness and despair.

In conclusion, the female characters of Game of Thrones are as diverse as they are compelling, each contributing to the rich tapestry of the series with their strength, resilience, and complexity. From noble ladies to fierce warriors, these women defy stereotypes and expectations, carving out their destinies in a world dominated by power and politics. Their legacy endures as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling, inspiring audiences around the world for generations to come.