First Female ‘Equalizer’: Why Queen Latifah’s Role Is a Game-Changer for TV and Film

Queen Latifah’s portrayal of Robyn McCall in the CBS series The Equalizer, which premiered on February 7, 2021, marks a groundbreaking moment in Hollywood’s evolving landscape of diversity and inclusion. As the first female to take the helm of the “Equalizer” franchise, previously led by Edward Woodward in the 1980s TV series and Denzel Washington in the films, Latifah brings a fresh and powerful perspective to a role traditionally occupied by men. With the series renewed for a fifth season as of April 2024, this reimagining not only breaks gender barriers but also challenges racial representation in action-packed crime dramas.

Background and Character Development

The original The Equalizer TV series (1985-1989) followed Edward Woodward as a former intelligence officer who helps people in need with his unique set of skills. The franchise later expanded into films starring Denzel Washington as Robert McCall, a similar character who seeks justice for those who can’t protect themselves. In 2021, the CBS reboot reimagined McCall’s character as Robyn McCall, played by Queen Latifah. Robyn is a former CIA operative who becomes an enigmatic figure, using her skills to defend the underserved while balancing life as a single mother.

Latifah’s involvement in the show extends beyond acting; she is also an executive producer. This allowed her to influence the development of Robyn McCall’s character, ensuring it was tailored to her strengths and background. An article from USA Today emphasizes that the role was “created for Queen Latifah,” meaning that Robyn was conceived from the outset as a Black woman, not as a generic role filled in later with diverse casting. This deliberate approach underscores the series’ commitment to authentic representation in an era where diversity in media is a key focus.

Breaking Barriers in Gender and Race

Queen Latifah’s casting is a major step toward gender equality in the action genre, which has historically been dominated by male protagonists. Action films and TV shows, particularly in the crime and thriller genres, have long centered on male leads. However, with the rise of successful female-led action series such as Alias and Jessica Jones, the demand for strong female protagonists has only grown. Research shows that a significant portion of the audience for shows like Killing Eve—which features a female lead—are women, further indicating a shift toward greater representation in action genres (Parrot Analytics).

Additionally, Latifah’s role as a Black woman in a lead position is especially significant. She joins the ranks of trailblazers like Viola Davis, Kerry Washington, and Teresa Graves, becoming one of the few Black women to lead a major network drama. This marks an important shift in the historically underrepresented world of Black women in action-packed television. According to the UCLA Hollywood Diversity Report, people of color remain underrepresented in leading roles in both broadcast and digital platforms, making Latifah’s portrayal even more monumental. Her role can serve as an inspiration for more casting of women of color in prominent roles, which would broaden the scope of storytelling in Hollywood.

Impact on the Audience and Industry

The inclusion of Latifah as a lead in The Equalizer has already demonstrated its positive impact on both the audience and the entertainment industry. Research from UCLA and Forbes reveals that shows with diverse casts and storylines tend to achieve higher viewership and commercial success. Shows like Creed III and John Wick: Chapter 4, featuring diverse leads, have seen significant box office boosts, illustrating a broader appetite for inclusive representation in the media. The Equalizer, with its diverse cast and Latifah’s powerful performance, aligns with these trends, suggesting that diverse content resonates with a wide audience.

Queen Latifah herself has spoken about the timeliness of the series, noting that The Equalizer addresses issues of racial and social inequities, particularly through scenes discussing systemic problems like disproportionate incarceration rates for Black people. This adds depth to the show, making it not just an action series but a platform for social commentary, reflecting the broader calls for racial justice that have grown in intensity over the past few years.

Controversies and Public Reception

Despite the praise, Latifah’s casting has not been without controversy. Some critics and fans, as seen on platforms like Quora, have expressed doubts, citing her “lack of gravitas” compared to previous male leads like Edward Woodward and Denzel Washington. Additionally, on social media, there have been discussions about Latifah’s age and whether she fits the stereotypical image of an action hero, with some critics arguing she is too old for the role. However, these criticisms have been countered by positive reviews, with The Guardian describing her performance as “farcical fun,” suggesting that her portrayal brings a fresh and enjoyable dynamic to the show.

Broader Implications for Future Trends

The success of The Equalizer and Queen Latifah’s continued involvement could set a powerful precedent for future productions. This could lead to more opportunities for women, especially women of color, to lead action-packed dramas, fostering a more inclusive and diverse entertainment industry. The success of female-driven series in international markets, such as Korean dramas, also highlights a growing trend toward independent female leads who become the backbone of successful narratives.

Moreover, Latifah’s role is likely to inspire young girls and people of color to pursue careers in entertainment, not just in front of the camera but also behind the scenes. Her position as both an actress and executive producer may serve as a model for others in the industry, contributing to a more diverse creative workforce.

Conclusion

Queen Latifah’s portrayal of Robyn McCall in The Equalizer represents a pivotal moment for Hollywood, as it challenges longstanding gender and racial stereotypes within the action genre. Through her work, Latifah is not only breaking barriers but also shaping the future of television, offering audiences a powerful and authentic representation of both strength and vulnerability. As the entertainment industry continues to evolve, Latifah’s role as the first female “Equalizer” sets a precedent that will likely inspire future generations of storytellers and audiences alike.