Tokyo, Nairobi, Stockholm: Female characters who challenged the patriarchy in 'Money Heist'

'Money Heist' continues to make waves around the world for its gripping storyline. The Spanish show is also lauded for its well-etched characters. Speaking of which, the show has five unique female characters, who challenged the patriarchal dominance in the gang. Let’s take a look at these women:

Portrayed by Úrsula Corberó, Tokyo is one of the most emotional and active members of the group. She becomes a part of the gang when the Professor finds her in the middle of running away from the police after a failed robbery. Throughout the heist, one can see her frustrations rooted in the dominance displayed by the male members of the heist. Tokyo’s impulsive decision making, along with her wit, allows her to take a stand for herself and also for the group, which benefits them in the long run.

Remember when Nairobi said “Empieza el matriarcado”(Let the matriarchy begin) during the heist...that speaks volumes about how the members were conditioned to listen to Berlin, the head and the most experienced member of the heist. Portrayed by Alba Flores, Nairobi, who served as the quality manager of the group, often found herself shunned in moments, despite being able to voice her opinion with conviction. When she was in charge of the heist, she ensured less bloodshed too and fewer disparities in the gang.

Even though Alicia fought on the other side, she brought a sense of charm, wit and sensibility while negotiating with the Professor. In a man’s world, she managed to catch the Professor, despite being challenged by her co-workers for having a troubled marriage, being a widow, and carrying a child. Even though she was shattered when her department pushed her to take the blame of Rio’s illegal imprisonment and torture, she stood up, called out the officers, and escaped to work alone. Portrayed by Najwa Nimri, Sierra is surely a well-defined female cop.

Just like Alicia, there were times when Raquel had to give in to the male-dominated system. She is a resilient and powerful woman in a world of men, but when it comes to her private life she is emotional and sensitive. Played by Itziar Ituño, she was given the investigation responsibilities of the heist, before she was forced to resign for failing to foil the robbery. While Raquel fought bravely, her failures were often focused on due to her troubled marriage, and her relationship with her daughter.

Also known as Stockholm, Monica Gaztambide is a woman true to her beliefs and virtues and has a strong sense of individuality. While she was working as the secretary of the Royal Mint of Spain, she had an affair with the director, which led to her getting pregnant. She could have easily aborted the child, but her strong will power and, of course her bonding with one of the robbers, Denver, allows her to decide otherwise. After being held hostage by the robbers, and falling in love with Denver, she chooses to join the gang and take part in the heist.