Lately presidential election It’s a reminder of how little independent and ambitious women are valued, but online media has made this clear for years.

Too many movies and TV shows portray independent female characters as the enemy, which causes the audience to root against them and limits what women think they can do.

“The Proposal” portrays Margaret Tate as a control-freak boss who lacks humanity and lets nothing disrupt her high-profile position. In reality, she is a dedicated, business-oriented woman who has earned her position and does not side with incompetent employees.

Inside “Breaking BadWhen Skyler White discovers her husband’s drug dealing enterprise, she is portrayed as a stubborn wife rather than a concerned mother who is reasonably outraged by her husband’s web of lies.

If these characters were male, they would be seen as self-sufficient and strong, rather than difficult and heartless. Women in films are expected to have qualities such as empathy and compassion; these virtues are rarely tasked with the development of male characters.

This can be seen in the TV series “Suits”, which stars the characters Harvey Specter and Samantha Wheeler. Although both are known as tough lawyers at a prestigious firm, Specter is portrayed as a charming character while Wheeler is often portrayed as a troublemaker.

The tendency in the media to view a high-profile woman as annoying and a high-profile man as powerful is representative of the sexism that is still prevalent on and off screen today.

Despite the progress made, women are still less salary, less respect And fewer opportunities than their male counterparts. Women working full time 84% What men earn on average. They also rarely hold leadership positions, even though they are more likely than men to have a higher education degree. University of Virginia.

But there are some notable exceptions. “Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again” alternatively serves not just as a comedy, but also as a positive representation of a strong, independent woman.

New graduate Donna Sheridan decides to start her own life, away from all familiarity. She travels around Europe, meeting various men and, somewhat carelessly, leaving them behind.

His quirky and individualistic traits could easily make him appear cold-hearted. Instead, his character is complemented by a cheerful and humorous personality, portraying him in a positive light.

Many films characterize Sheridan casually taking men on bicycles, but the depth and nuance of her character allow her to escape this inappropriate label.

The 2019 version of “Little Women” sees Jo March rejecting a life by the rules and an engagement to Theodore Laurence. March’s character may be considered difficult, but she still maintains her status as an inspiring feminist icon.

Sheridan and March’s free-spirited roles are rare examples of how an independent woman should be portrayed with nuance, respect and grace. In a world determined to tear women down, there is a need for more of these beloved female characters.

Entertainment has the power over perspective. By instilling stereotypes into the social consciousness, movies and shows perpetuate sexism and can stall progress towards equality.

In order for there to be a real change, there must first be a change in the media.