5 TV characters who inspire us to be better
Television is a unique art form, in that we invite characters into our living rooms, where they share their stories and struggles with us. Over the months or years we know them, many of television’s iconic characters can be a source of great inspiration to us. Here are some of our favourites.
1. Derek from Derek
“Kindness is magic” is the motto of this show and its titular character. Played with sweet sensitivity by Ricky Gervais, Ricky is a worker at an aged care facility, and possesses a pronounced childlike naivety and tendencies that suggest he sits somewhere on the autism spectrum. Despite experiencing difficulties of his own, Derek firmly believes being kind is more important than being good looking or clever, and he proves that over and over again with his selfless, joyous acts.
2. Leslie Knope from Parks and Recreation
If you haven’t yet met the permanently positive Leslie Knope of Pawnee, Indiana, then you’re in for a treat. As the Deputy Director of the city Parks Department, Leslie is frequently impeded by red tape, political scandals, apathetic colleagues, and certifiable locals, but doesn’t let anything slow her down. Amy Poehler’s performance as Leslie is endearing and energetic, making it impossible to not be on her side.
3. Alicia Florrick from The Good Wife
In the opening moments of The Good Wife, we discover that Alicia Florrick’s husband, the State’s Attorney for Cook County, has been disgraced and jailed in relation to corruption charges and a sex scandal. After 13 years as a full-time mother, and with no option left to her, Alicia returns to her dormant legal career by securing a job at a prestigious Chicago law firm. Alicia endures the public scrutiny that comes her way following her husband’s scandals, and works hard to prove herself as more than just Peter Florrick’s wife. Julianna Marguiles is outstanding as Alicia.
4. Queen Elizabeth from The Crown
No, she’s not fictional, but, as played by Claire Foy (for the series’ first two seasons), Queen Elizabeth is stoic, thoughtful, and a joy to watch, as she navigates a rapidly modernising world, tends to her fragile marriage, and endures the harsh criticisms invited by a role she never sought.
5. Jane Villanueva from Jane the Virgin
Inspired by her grandmother’s lectures, Jane Villanueva decides to abstain from having sex until she is married. However, thanks to a distracted gynaecologist, Jane becomes pregnant in this wonderful series’ pilot episode. Unmarried, and with a religious family, Jane walks the unusual path ahead of her with grace, and bravery.
Which TV character inspires you most?