Back in Time Today
Before prestige dramas and streaming sensations, these pioneering women lit up the television screens of the 1960s—and changed the game forever. Their groundbreaking roles, fierce talent, and unforgettable presence helped redefine what it meant to be a leading lady on TV. From sitcom queens to sci-fi heroines, here are the 20 trailblazing TV women who paved the way for generations to come.
1. Mary Tyler Moore – The Dick Van Dyke Show
Moore’s portrayal of Laura Petrie—stylish, sharp, and independent—was a fresh take on the sitcom wife and laid the groundwork for her own iconic ’70s series. Her character challenged the traditional image of domesticity, offering viewers a more modern and relatable figure. Moore’s comedic timing and elegance made her a standout, and her role became a cultural touchstone. Her influence is still felt, inspiring countless women in entertainment.
2. Diahann Carroll – Julia
Carroll made history as the first Black woman to star in a non-servant role on a major network show, portraying a nurse and single mother with grace and power. Her presence on television was monumental, breaking racial barriers and offering representation. Carroll’s nuanced performance brought depth to the character, making Julia a landmark series. Her legacy endures, as she paved the way for more diverse storytelling in television.
3. Patty Duke – The Patty Duke Show
Playing both teenage cousins—identical, but with polar opposite personalities—Duke flexed serious acting chops and became a teen icon. Her dual role showcased her remarkable range and ability to captivate audiences. Duke’s performance was both charming and complex, as she navigated themes of identity and family. The show’s clever premise and Duke’s talent made it a beloved classic, cementing her status as a cultural figure of the era.
4. Elizabeth Montgomery – Bewitched
As Samantha Stephens, Montgomery played a witch trying to live a normal life—and flipped traditional gender roles upside down with every nose twitch. Her charming portrayal challenged societal norms and offered a new perspective on female empowerment. Montgomery’s role in Bewitched became iconic, blending humor, fantasy, and subtle social commentary. Her character’s independence and strength resonated with audiences, making her a feminist icon of the era.
5. Donna Reed – The Donna Reed Show
Reed’s portrayal of a strong, intelligent, and compassionate housewife offered a progressive twist on the typical ’50s family model. Her character balanced traditional roles with modern sensibilities, resonating with a changing audience. Reed’s warmth and authenticity made her a relatable figure, driving the show’s success and longevity. Her influence extended beyond acting, as she set a standard for complexity and depth in female characters.
6. Anne Francis – Honey West
Francis played TV’s first female private detective in a leading role—complete with a pet ocelot and judo moves to match. Her portrayal was both stylish and groundbreaking, challenging gender norms in a male-dominated genre. Francis brought charisma and wit to the role, making Honey West a memorable character. The series, though short-lived, left a lasting impact on the portrayal of women in action-oriented roles.
7. Lucille Ball – The Lucy Show
Already a household name from I Love Lucy, Ball proved her staying power with The Lucy Show throughout the ’60s. As both star and executive producer, she broke barriers for women behind the scenes. Her comedic brilliance and business acumen made Ball a trailblazer, inspiring countless women to pursue careers in television production. Her influence extended beyond comedy; she championed creative freedom and equity in the industry.
8. Tina Louise – Gilligan’s Island
As Ginger Grant, the glamorous movie star marooned on an island, Louise gave 1960s comedy a dose of Hollywood sparkle. Her character’s charm and allure added a unique dynamic to the ensemble cast. Louise’s performance was both comedic and sophisticated, capturing the imaginations of viewers worldwide. Her role in Gilligan’s Island became iconic, influencing the portrayal of glamorous characters in comedy series for years to come.
9. Barbara Eden – I Dream of Jeannie
Her portrayal of the lovable, magical Jeannie captured audiences with charm, comedy, and a then-controversial costume that challenged TV norms. Eden’s performance was both enchanting and groundbreaking, as she navigated themes of freedom and individuality. Her dynamic with co-star Larry Hagman added depth to the comedic storyline, making I Dream of Jeannie a beloved classic. Eden’s influence remains, as she embodied a unique blend of whimsy and strength.
10. Barbara Feldon – Get Smart
As Agent 99, Feldon wasn’t just a sidekick—she was often the brains of the operation, paving the way for intelligent female spies on TV. Her character challenged stereotypes, offering a blend of wit and competence. Feldon’s portrayal brought a fresh perspective to the genre, making her a standout figure in comedic espionage. Her legacy endures, inspiring future portrayals of women in action-packed and intellectually demanding roles.
11. Nichelle Nichols – Star Trek
Nichols’ Lieutenant Uhura was not just groundbreaking for her race, but also for portraying a woman in a high-ranking position on a futuristic starship. Her role was a beacon of progress and diversity, offering a vision of equality in the cosmos. Nichols’ performance was both dignified and empowering, inspiring future generations. Her influence extends beyond entertainment, as she became a symbol for civil rights and representation.
12. Marlo Thomas – That Girl
As aspiring actress Ann Marie, Thomas played one of TV’s first single, independent career women—helping set the stage for characters like Mary Richards. Her character defied traditional expectations, embracing ambition and self-reliance. Thomas’ performance was both spirited and relatable, capturing the zeitgeist of a changing era. That Girl resonated with audiences, becoming a cultural touchstone for women seeking independence and adventure.
13. Shirley Booth – Hazel
Booth’s Emmy-winning role as a witty and resourceful housemaid gave domestic characters surprising agency and heart. Her portrayal was both humorous and heartfelt, challenging stereotypes of domestic workers. Booth’s character navigated family dynamics with intelligence and charm, making Hazel a beloved figure. Her performance brought depth to a seemingly simple role, breaking new ground for character-driven storytelling in television sitcoms.
14. Yvonne Craig – Batman
As Batgirl, Craig was a crime-fighting icon in purple spandex—bringing feminism to Gotham long before it was trendy. Her character was both fierce and fashionable, challenging traditional gender roles in superhero narratives. Craig’s portrayal was empowering and dynamic, inspiring young viewers with her strength and independence. Her role in Batman left a lasting legacy, paving the way for more female superheroes in popular culture.
15. Cloris Leachman – The Donna Reed Show / Lassie
Versatile and charismatic, Leachman brought humor and drama to a wide range of roles throughout the decade. Her performances showcased her adaptability and depth, making her a standout talent. Leachman’s roles were both varied and compelling, offering audiences a glimpse into her impressive range. Her work in The Donna Reed Show and Lassie contributed to her legacy as one of television’s most beloved and enduring figures.
16. Sally Field – Gidget / The Flying Nun
Field’s youthful energy and comic timing made her a relatable face for a new generation of viewers—long before her Oscar-winning days. Her performances in Gidget and The Flying Nun were both spirited and engaging, capturing the essence of 1960s youth culture. Field’s characters navigated life’s challenges with humor and grace, resonating with audiences. Her early roles set the stage for a remarkable career, showcasing her talent and versatility.
17. Diana Rigg – The Avengers
As Emma Peel, Rigg embodied brainy, badass cool—easily holding her own alongside her male counterparts in leather catsuits and quick wit. Her character was both stylish and formidable, challenging gender roles in action television. Rigg’s portrayal was iconic, blending intelligence and elegance seamlessly. Her work in The Avengers left a lasting impression, influencing the portrayal of strong, independent women in action series.
18. Peggy Lipton – The Mod Squad
With her laid-back cool and fashion-forward style, Lipton helped redefine the youth drama while portraying one of TV’s earliest undercover female cops. Her character was both stylish and courageous, navigating complex societal issues with poise. Lipton’s performance was both engaging and groundbreaking, capturing the spirit of the 1960s. The Mod Squad became a cultural phenomenon, inspiring future generations of youth-oriented dramas.
19. Tina Cole – My Three Sons
As Katie Miller, Cole added a smart, sweet presence to one of the longest-running sitcoms of the era—and helped modernize the show’s family dynamic. Her character was both endearing and progressive, resonating with audiences seeking relatable family narratives. Cole’s performance was both subtle and impactful, contributing to the show’s enduring popularity. Her role in My Three Sons showcased her talent and charm, leaving a lasting legacy.
20. Imogene Coca – It’s About Time
A comedy pioneer, Coca’s return to TV in the late ’60s brought her legendary comedic skills to a new generation of viewers. Her performance in It’s About Time was both whimsical and engaging, showcasing her timeless talent. Coca’s comedic style was both unique and influential, leaving a lasting impact on television comedy. Her work in the series reaffirmed her status as an entertainment icon, inspiring future comedians.