March is here, which means it's time to celebrate Women’s History Month—a perfect opportunity to shine a spotlight on the incredible women of Star Wars, both on-screen and behind the scenes. As a Wookieepedia administrator (and lifelong Star Wars fan), I’ve spent years cataloging the lore, dissecting stories, and appreciating the depth of the galaxy we all love. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that the women of Star Wars are just as crucial to its success as the Jedi, Sith, and starships that populate it.
So, let’s talk about the women who have shaped this universe, both in-universe and in real life—the heroines, villains, scoundrels, and visionaries who have given Star Wars its heart.
Leia Organa: The Original Rebel
We can’t start this discussion without the woman who set the standard for Star Wars heroines: Leia Organa. Played by the legendary Carrie Fisher, Leia wasn’t just a princess—she was a leader, a fighter, and a diplomat. From the moment she stood up to Darth Vader in A New Hope, she proved that she was no damsel in distress.
Leia’s journey—from rebel leader to general in the Resistance—showed resilience, intelligence, and a take-no-nonsense attitude that made her an icon. Fisher’s portrayal imbued Leia with wit and wisdom, and her legacy continues to inspire generations of fans.
Padmé Amidala: A Queen and a Warrior in Her Own Right
Often overshadowed by her tragic fate, Padmé Amidala (Natalie Portman) was a powerhouse in the Star Wars prequels. As the Queen of Naboo, she demonstrated diplomacy and bravery, unafraid to fight for her people. Her role in galactic politics and her resistance against tyranny made her one of the franchise’s most underrated characters. She wasn’t just Anakin Skywalker’s love interest—she was a leader who fought for democracy and, ultimately, paid the price for it.
Ahsoka Tano: From Padawan to Powerhouse
Ahsoka Tano has one of the most compelling arcs in Star Wars history. Introduced in The Clone Wars animated series, she started as Anakin’s headstrong Padawan and grew into one of the most skilled Force wielders in the galaxy. Voiced by Ashley Eckstein and later portrayed in live-action by Rosario Dawson, Ahsoka became a fan-favorite, earning her own series and cementing her status as a central figure in the franchise. She walked away from the Jedi Order, proving that true strength comes from defining one’s own path.
Jyn Erso: The Unsung Hero of the Rebellion
Rogue One gave us one of the most compelling standalone stories in Star Wars history, and at the heart of it was Jyn Erso, played by Felicity Jones. A reluctant hero turned fearless leader, Jyn’s sacrifice set the stage for the Rebellion’s greatest victory. She wasn’t a Jedi, but her courage in the face of overwhelming odds made her just as important. Without Jyn, Luke Skywalker never would’ve destroyed the Death Star.
Rey: A New Era of Hope
Rey’s journey in the sequel trilogy was a major turning point for Star Wars. Played by Daisy Ridley, Rey emerged as the central figure of the Skywalker saga’s final chapters. While her story arc remains a point of debate among fans, there’s no denying her significance. A scavenger who rose to become the last Jedi, Rey’s resilience and determination make her a worthy successor to the heroes who came before her.
The Villainous Side: Asajj Ventress and Captain Phasma
Not all impactful women in Star Wars fight for the light. Asajj Ventress, introduced in The Clone Wars, was a fierce and complex character. Initially a Sith assassin under Count Dooku, she evolved into something far more nuanced, eventually becoming an antihero fans couldn’t help but root for. Her tragic yet powerful story arc made her one of the best-developed female characters in the franchise.
On the First Order’s side, we have Captain Phasma, played by Gwendoline Christie. Though her screen time in the sequel trilogy was limited, Phasma represented a shift in how female villains were portrayed in Star Wars—a towering, intimidating presence wrapped in chrome armor, commanding respect and fear.
The Women Behind the Scenes
"I feel like this is a really exciting time to sort of change the landscape of the way women are perceived. And it's really exciting to have a female director leading this and trusting that it will be… We will be represented in the right way, because [Deborah Chow is] on it."
- Indira Varma, the actress who portrayed Tala Durith, about filming the Obi-Wan Kenobi series
Of course, Star Wars wouldn’t be what it is without the women working behind the camera. Deborah Chow and Bryce Dallas Howard have directed some of the best episodes of The Mandalorian and Ahsoka, proving that women are shaping the future of Star Wars storytelling in exciting ways.
Looking to the Future
The future of Star Wars continues to bring us incredible female characters. With series like Andor's second season on the horizon, we can expect even more strong, complex women taking the lead. Whether they’re Jedi, Sith, pilots, or scoundrels, the women of Star Wars continue to prove that the galaxy is better with them in it.
So, this Women’s History Month, let’s celebrate the heroines, villains, and visionaries of Star Wars—because without them, it just wouldn’t be the same galaxy we love.
