Top Female-Centric TV Series of 2017: A Recap
Discover the most prominent female-driven TV shows of 2017, highlighting stories of empowerment, resilience, and diverse perspectives. From comedy to drama, these series showcased women’s complex roles both on and off-screen, marking a milestone year for gender representation in television. Watch acclaimed shows like The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Shameless, The Crown, and Big Little Lies, which provided fresh narratives and celebrated strong female characters. This list serves as an inspiring guide to top-quality entertainment celebrating women’s stories and achievements in television history.

Top Female-Centric TV Series of 2017: A Recap
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2017 marked a significant milestone for women in television, celebrating strong female narratives and leadership both on and off-screen. As feminism gained momentum in societal debates and media, many TV shows spotlighted female characters in empowering roles and showcased women behind the camera. This shift brought about positive change, enriching the diversity and depth of women’s representation in entertainment. From comedic to dramatic genres, these series highlighted women’s stories and their complex, authentic experiences.
Explore some standout female-centered TV shows from 2017.
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel
This comedy-drama is witty, captivating, and centered around a female protagonist—an absolute highlight! You’ll identify its charm within the first ten minutes of the pilot.

Rachel Brosnahan stars as Midge, a Jewish housewife in the late 1950s, navigating her life while longing for more than traditional domesticity. The series depicts her journey of self-discovery, balancing humor and heartfelt moments. With an acclaimed cast and vibrant portrayal of the era, it earned 2 Golden Globe awards and numerous other honors.
Shameless
Centered on the Gallagher family’s struggles in Chicago’s South Side, Shameless offers raw honesty and unfiltered storytelling. While the show explores various family members, a significant focus is on Fiona Gallagher, portrayed beautifully by Emmy Rossum. Rossum’s dual role as actress and director enhances the series’ compelling narrative and character depth. The characters are flawed yet relatable, tackling issues with honesty that resonate with viewers.
The Crown
This historical drama highlights the life of Queen Elizabeth II, portrayed with meticulous detail since its 2016 debut. The second season offers insight into her personal and political challenges, reflecting leadership, resilience, and the weight of power. Awarded multiple Emmys, the series celebrates the strength of women in leadership, inspiring viewers, especially women, through the Queen’s perseverance and dignity amidst crises.
Big Little Lies
Set in an affluent California suburb, this drama series follows three women facing personal and societal struggles. Filled with secrets, betrayal, and psychological complexity, the show evolves from domestic melodrama into a crime thriller. Its stellar cast, led by Reese Witherspoon and Nicole Kidman, delivers nuanced performances that explore female vulnerabilities and resilience. The show redefines female narratives by highlighting diverse, authentic female perspectives that challenge stereotypes.
Additional notable shows from 2017 include:
- Handmaid’s Tale
- 13 Reasons Why
- Grace and Frankie
- Orange is The New Black
- Veep
- How To Get Away With Murder
- Big Mouth
- Bold Type
- GLOW
- The Sinner
- Bomb Girls
- Insecure
- Crazy Ex-Girlfriend
- Better Things
- Harlots
If you haven't yet watched these compelling series, now is the perfect time to enjoy some quality female-centered storytelling on your screen!