My favorite type of shows are ones that are entertaining, but also have some sort of feminist theme through them. Here are my five favorites:
"Agent Carter"
My sister introduced this show to me. I have never really been into the Marvel universe, but my sister told me I had to watch this show. She told me it was a must-watch for any feminist, and that Haley Atwell was amazing. She was right! Peggy Carter, the main character, is a strong and brave female agent for the SSR. The show follows her right after World War II, and her journey trying to break down double standards and other gender-related obstacles. She fights crimes, solves cases and always tries to find the moral high ground. She is an amazing example of Second Wave Feminism, and how women in the 1940s paved the way for equality.
"Castle"
This show is probably the first show that I ever "binged-watched." It was back in 2011 when again, my sister recommended I watch this show. "Castle" is technically a crime drama, but it also has a lot of humor to it. Kate Beckett, an NYPD detective, is forced to allow a murder mystery writer follow her around on her cases. Richard Castle, the writer, is very charming and always seems to get on Kate's nerve while tagging along. The show is basically like a modern version of "Agent Carter." You have a female detective prove herself in a workforce full of men, and show that a woman can be tough and brave too. "Castle" is probably one of the shows that got me into female empowerment, and feminism itself.
"Parks and Recreation"
Yes, I know. Everyone knows about this show. But, it honestly is so amazing. Not only is it hilarious, the characters are written extremely well. Leslie Knope, one of the main characters, is a self-proclaimed feminist and has many scenes were she calls out society's flaws. For anyone who does not know, "Parks and Recreation" is filmed documentary style (like "The Office") and follows around the parks department for the city of Pawnee. Just like the last two shows, Leslie Knope is a strong lead that illuminates just how powerful women can be in government. All the while making you fall off your chair laughing.
"Orphan Black"
This is one of the less popular shows on the list. It airs on BBC America and is not for the weak-hearted. This show is for all the science enthusiasts out there who enjoy modern technology and DNA research. The show is about a set of clones who by fate meet again. This creates a whirlwind of problems that involves the government and other outside threats. The reason why this show is so feminist is because it features not one but numerous strong female characters. The actress who plays all the clones, Tatiana Maslany, is a phenomenal actress and showcases female talent. The characters she plays include a female scientist, brave single mom and cop. So if you enjoy thrillers, females in science and a little bit of romance, this show is for you.
"Full Frontal with Samantha Bee"
This is a brand new show that contains the first (yes, first) female late night TV show host. Not only is Samantha Bee brilliant, but the show is well written and confronts social issue tactfully. Plus, it is absolutely hilarious. While, the first few episodes are not perfect, it is definitely a work in progress. I have a lot of faith that this show will go far. I just wish that the show was longer than 30 minutes and on more than once a week!
Honorable mentions: Anything under the production of Shonda Rimes (ex. "Scandal" and "How to Get Away With Murder"). Let's be honest, Shondaland rules the television right now.
I hope you watch one of these shows. (Or maybe all of them.)
