There is absolutely no denying the fact that popular culture is today more feminised than it was throughout the twentieth century. Those who have witnessed the turn of the century and the steady women’s march to 2022 and better times in certain fields if not all, know this very well. The role of gender in media and pop culture has gone through a steady revolution in the twenty-first century, and it is all-pervasive. Whether it’s behind the scenes or on screens, on stage or on your mobile device, in mainstream talk shows or virtual fandoms, women and genderqueer people have not only gradually found better representation and acceptance but also immense popularity.
2022 was the year when this path to ruling every aspect of pop culture solidified even more. After two years of slow burns due to the pandemic, women and genderqueer people came back full swing to make their mark in people’s hearts and minds all over the world. Here are a few honourable mentions of women who dominated pop culture in 2022.
Taylor Swift: How To Rule Hearts & Charts
This year belonged to Taylor Swift perhaps more than to anybody else. Earlier in the year, the 32-year-old received an honorary doctorate from New York University and was also honoured at the Tribeca Film Festival, VMAs and the Toronto International Film Festival. In October 2022, Tay released her tenth album, Midnights. The album became the first album since Adele’s 25 to break sales records, and Swift became the first artist in history to take all 10 of the top 10 slots on the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart.
Jenna Ortega: Wednesday’s Woe Went Viral
When Tim Burton’s Wednesday was released in November 2022, the world was immediately enchanted by 20-year-old actress Jenna Ortega as well as the fictional character of Wednesday Addams. Creepy, kooky, spooky and charming at the same time, the actress’ performance received rave reviews from across the globe. Apart from highlighting feminist, inclusive and anti-colonial narratives, the portrayal also included a dance number that has since gone viral.
Every Woman In Black Panther: Wakanda Forever
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever was the much-awaited sequel to Chadwick Boseman’s brilliant stint as the African hero, and was all about the women who slayed every role. Letitia Wright’s Shuri evolved from a tech genius to the titular hero; Angela Bassett’s commanding portrayal of Queen Ramonda, the mother standing strong to protect her family; Lupita Nyong’o’s Nakia continues to be driven by her love for her country; Danai Gurira’s Okoye turned out to be the most elite of the nation’s fighters; and Dominique Thorne was introduced as Riri Williams, or Iron Man’s successor, Iron Heart.
Michaela Jae Rodriguez: History Made, New Paths Paved
History was made at the 2022 Golden Globes when Michaela Jae Rodriguez won Best Actress in a TV Drama for her role of Bianca on FX’s Pose. With this victory, she became the first openly transgender actor to win a Golden Globe. “This is the door that is going to open the door for many more young talented individuals,” she wrote on her Instagram. “To my young LGBTQAI babies WE ARE HERE the door is now open now reach the stars!!!!!”
Iman Vellani: South-Asian Representation Like Never Before
In June 2022, Pakistani-Canadian actress Iman Vellani made her debut as Kamala Khan aka Ms Marvel on Disney+ Hotstar. The 19-year-old was not only the first South-Asian woman but also the first on-screen Muslim to play a superhero. Her appearance created a major buzz around the world, but especially among South Asian girls and women, who found her story relatable and inspiring. Vellani is all set to appear in The Marvels with Brie Larson, Teyonah Parris and Zawe Ashton in 2023.
Emma D’Arcy: The Queer Queen From That Prequel
The Game of Thrones prequel series, House of the Dragon, hit the screens in 2022 and Emma D’Arcy was one of its breakout stars. The 30-year-old British actor plays the older version of Princess Rhaenyra and appeared in only four out of 10 episodes. Yet, their performance was so impactful that they scored their first Golden Globe nomination as Lead Actress in a Drama Series. They are the only actor from the impressive cast the show presented to get a nomination, while the series itself has been nominated for Best Drama Series.
Zendaya: Making History At The Emmys
Zendaya made history at the Emmy Awards 2022 by becoming the first Black woman to win the award for the Outstanding Lead Actress twice. This was her second time winning the award for portraying Rue, a troubled teenager on HBO’s Euphoria. The first time around was in 2020 when her victory made her the youngest actress to win the award. This year, Zendaya beat a tough competition from Sandra Oh, Jodie Comer and Reese Witherspoon among others for the award.