10 Strong-Willed Disney Princesses Who Are Not Your Typical Damsel In Distress

While the 1989 version of Ariel is also quite interesting herself, the 2023 live-action reimagining has taken the liberty to give the mermaid a much more significant personality. Portrayed by Halle Bailey, Ariel now not only relies on her cute face and pretty voice, but she also takes matters into her own hands: from taking back her voice from Ursula, to stabbing the sea witch with the ship herself. Prince Eric can grab some popcorn while watching his love fighting one-on-one with a giant octopus.

While straying a bit too far away from the real-life story, Pocahontas is still praised by fans for successfully building the image of a strong and determined indigenous woman. She’s also wise and brave, not shying from any action sequence, and even can teach John Smith a thing or two about combat. Oh, and did I mention she’s a really good singer as well?

While blessed with magical blond hair that can heal any type of wound and serve as a traverse item, Rapunzel doesn’t rely too much on it. Right from the start, she was a dreamy young girl who wants to get out of her comfort zone and step into the complicated but intriguing society out there. She may be shy at first, but quickly grows as a person, and even uses her power to save Flynn Rider many times. Sometimes, it feels like Flynn is actually the one who needs protection.

And even without her magical hair, remember, Rapunzel is very proficient with her frying pan.

Modern Disney princesses are strong, but few can match the toughness and determination of Mulan, who even goes out of her way to cross-dress as a man to serve in the military on her father’s behalf. And she’s not just there to make up the numbers, either. 

Mulan is quite skilled in martial arts, as she’s able to hold her own ground against the powerful and ruthless Shan Yu. She’s also a genius strategist, having wiped out an entire Hun army with just a single canon. In conclusion, whatever you do, don’t get on Fa Mulan’s bad side.

Elsa is literally very powerful, as she has the ability to control and create ice at will. With her full power, she can create a whole gigantic ice castle, or even a strong blizzard that can wipe out an entire nation. However, Elsa is also strong mentally, being able to withstand the trauma and anxiety to step up as the new queen of Arendelle, and with Anna by her side, they are an unstoppable force.

Unlike other Disney princesses, Tiana is born into a lower-class family, and has to work her way through the street of Louisiana to make ends meet. She has a strong work ethic and would do everything in her ability to achieve her dream – to open her very own restaurant in the heart of the city. 

Considering black people weren’t very appreciated at the time in the movie, the fact that Tiana is able to open her restaurant is quite a remarkable feat. And since Tiana’s so busy, she doesn’t have time to find her own Prince Charming, not that she needs to.

Just like the title suggests, Merida is fierce, rebellious, and courageous, as she believes she can do anything a man can, much to her mother’s dismay. Being constantly told by Queen Elinor that she needs to act more like a princess and needs to marry to be successful, Merida wants to break free of the shackles, and live as she wants. The Scottish princess has taught us that you can change your own destiny by grabbing it with both of your hands.

While born in Ancient Greece times, Meg is not your ordinary damsel in distress, the character even said this herself during her encounter with Hercules. While under Hades's control, she yearns only for freedom, while also claiming that she needs no men in her life.

This opinion of her has changed since meeting Hercules, as Meg’s cold heart starts to melt thanks to the latter’s affection. She starts having feelings for him, and later even opposes Hades to save her love, at the cost of her own life.

Who said a housewife can’t be a superhero? Helen Parr has done just that, resuming her Elastigirl moniker while still doing housework and taking care of her children at the same time. The hero’s world is fierce and competitive, with the higher rankings mostly men. Helen wants to change that, and with her wits and determination, she manages to climb the ranks to be one of the best superheroes there is. Also, she wields a quite peculiar ability, which leads to some spectacular action scenes.

One very modern and admirable thing about Jasmine is that no matter what happens, she doesn’t yield to the kingdom rules, which force the female royalties to married to a rich person for political purposes, and that she doesn’t hesitate to speak about it. Even before the powerful and vicious Jafar, the Arabic princess still doesn’t budge. Ironically enough, this fiery aspect of Jasmine is exactly what Aladdin likes about her, and decides to win her heart at all cost.

Do you like these princesses over the classic ones? Are we missing any candidates from the list? Let us know in the comment.