Despite the mixed reactions to the final season of Game of Thrones, there’s no denying the show featured some of the most remarkable female characters in television history. While not all received the arcs they deserved, and some met their untimely demise, many of these women left a lasting impression on fans. The strength and complexity of Game of Thrones’ female characters make it difficult to rank them based solely on likability, as some of the most hated figures were also the best-written. It’s not just about who’s likable, but who’s deeply layered.
As HBO continues to expand the Game of Thrones universe with spin-offs, it’s clear the show has secured its place as one of the most influential TV series of the new millennium. A significant part of its success lies in its vast cast of multidimensional female characters, each playing a crucial role in the story’s intricate web. These women were more than just background figures; they were proactive players, making the show’s narrative all the more engaging. Among them, some stood out as more nuanced and compelling than others.
20. Myranda (Played by Charlotte Hope)
Myranda may not have been a major character, but she left a lasting mark as one of the show’s most vicious minor villains. As Ramsay Bolton’s lover and accomplice, she shared his appetite for cruelty. Despite her limited screen time, Charlotte Hope’s portrayal of Myranda as devious and sadistic made her a memorable and striking presence.
19. Ellaria Sand (Played by Indira Varma)
Ellaria Sand, portrayed by Indira Varma, was a passionate and fiercely loyal partner to Oberyn Martell. Her quest for vengeance after his death drove her to commit one of the show’s most controversial acts: the murder of Myrcella Baratheon. Ellaria was a divisive figure, but her devotion to her family made her a formidable character.
18. Shae (Played by Sibel Kekili)
Shae, Tyrion Lannister’s lover, was a complex and controversial character. Though she began as a trusted confidante, her betrayal of Tyrion during his trial showcased her vulnerability and poor judgment in trusting the wrong people. Sibel Kekili’s performance made Shae one of the more tragic figures in the series, a victim of power plays beyond her control.
17. Gilly (Played by Hannah Murray)
Gilly, portrayed by Hannah Murray, may have been quiet and unassuming, but she was a resilient and resourceful character. As one of Craster’s wives, Gilly endured a harsh life before escaping with Samwell Tarly. She showed remarkable strength and loyalty, becoming an important figure in Sam’s journey and proving her own survival skills in the harsh world of Westeros.
16. Meera Reed (Played by Ellie Kendrick)
Meera Reed, a loyal and fierce protector of Bran Stark, played a key role in his survival beyond the Wall. Ellie Kendrick’s understated but powerful performance made Meera one of the most underrated characters in the series, with her bravery and determination ensuring Bran’s safety at great personal cost.
15. Lyanna Mormont (Played by Bella Ramsey)
Despite her young age, Lyanna Mormont, played by Bella Ramsey, became an instant fan favorite. Her strong-willed nature and commanding presence made her a standout character from her first appearance. Though she met a tragic end, Lyanna’s bravery during the Battle of Winterfell solidified her as one of the most iconic female figures in Game of Thrones.
14. Ygritte (Played by Rose Leslie)
Ygritte, Jon Snow’s Wildling love interest, was a fierce and independent warrior. Rose Leslie’s portrayal of Ygritte brought warmth and wit to the character, making her more than just a love interest. Her loyalty to her people ultimately led to her tragic death, but her spirit remained a significant part of Jon Snow’s story.
13. Yara Greyjoy (Played by Gemma Whelan)
Yara Greyjoy, played by Gemma Whelan, was a fierce and determined leader of the Ironborn. Her character differed from her book counterpart, but Yara’s loyalty to her family and her bravery in battle made her a fan favorite. Though her storyline didn’t reach its full potential, Whelan’s performance added depth to the character.
12. Ros (Played by Esmé Bianco)
Ros began as a prostitute but quickly rose through the ranks thanks to her intelligence and ability to read people. Played by Esmé Bianco, Ros was a reminder of how the lower classes navigated the dangerous world of Westeros. Her untimely death at Joffrey’s hands was a loss to the series, as she had the potential to become a key player.
11. Osha (Played by Natalia Tena)
Osha, the Wildling who protected Bran and Rickon Stark, was brought to life by Natalia Tena in a standout performance. Osha’s loyalty and resourcefulness made her a key character in the early seasons, helping the Stark boys survive after fleeing Winterfell.
10. Missandei (Played by Nathalie Emmanuel)
Missandei, Daenerys Targaryen’s loyal handmaiden, was a beloved character known for her kindness and wisdom. Played by Nathalie Emmanuel, Missandei’s calm demeanor and loyalty made her a stabilizing force in Daenerys’ camp. Her tragic death in the final season was a blow to fans who admired her strength and resilience.
9. Catelyn Stark (Played by Michelle Fairley)
Catelyn Stark, the matriarch of the Stark family, was driven by her love for her children and her fierce desire to protect them. Michelle Fairley portrayed Catelyn with emotional depth, showing both her strengths and flaws. Her tragic death at the Red Wedding remains one of the series’ most shocking moments.
8. Melisandre (Played by Carice van Houten)
Melisandre, the Red Priestess, was a mysterious and fanatical character. Driven by her faith in the Lord of Light, she played a pivotal role in some of the series’ most significant events, including the resurrection of Jon Snow. Carice van Houten’s eerie and captivating performance made Melisandre one of the show’s most unforgettable figures.
7. Brienne of Tarth (Played by Gwendoline Christie)
Brienne of Tarth, portrayed by Gwendoline Christie, was the embodiment of honor and duty. Her unwavering loyalty and sense of justice made her a beloved character. Brienne’s journey from a misunderstood outsider to a knight of the Seven Kingdoms was one of the most rewarding character arcs in the series.
6. Arya Stark (Played by Maisie Williams)
Arya Stark, played by Maisie Williams, had one of the most transformative journeys in Game of Thrones. From a young girl seeking revenge to the assassin who killed the Night King, Arya’s arc was filled with hardship and growth. Her fierce independence and determination made her a fan favorite.
5. Olenna Tyrell (Played by Diana Rigg)
Olenna Tyrell, played by the legendary Diana Rigg, was one of the sharpest and most cunning characters in Game of Thrones. Her wit and intelligence made her a formidable player in the political landscape of Westeros. Olenna’s final scene, where she confesses to poisoning Joffrey, remains one of the most iconic moments in the show.
4. Margaery Tyrell (Played by Natalie Dormer)
Margaery Tyrell, portrayed by Natalie Dormer, was a master manipulator who used her beauty and charm to navigate the treacherous world of Westeros. Her ambition and intelligence made her a formidable opponent, and her untimely death was a tragic loss to the series.
3. Sansa Stark (Played by Sophie Turner)
Sansa Stark’s transformation from a naive young girl to the Queen in the North was one of the most significant character arcs in the series. Sophie Turner’s portrayal of Sansa showcased her growth into a strong and capable leader, earning her place as one of the show’s most inspiring figures.
2. Cersei Lannister (Played by Lena Headey)
Cersei Lannister, played by Lena Headey, was one of the most complex and ruthless characters in Game of Thrones. Her desire for power and her willingness to do whatever it took to protect her family made her both a villain and a tragic figure. Headey’s performance was a masterclass in portraying a multifaceted character.
1. Daenerys Targaryen (Played by Emilia Clarke)
Daenerys Targaryen, portrayed by Emilia Clarke, was the heart of Game of Thrones. From her humble beginnings to her rise as the Mother of Dragons, Daenerys was a symbol of strength and ambition. Though her character’s final turn left many fans divided, Daenerys remains one of the most iconic figures in television history. Clarke’s portrayal of her evolution from a liberator to a conqueror was one of the series’ defining performances.
