‘Xena: Warrior Princess’ Debuted 30 Years Ago: Where Is Lucy Lawless Now? Catch Up With the Icon

Thirty years ago, Xena: Warrior Princess debuted after the character was introduced in the series Hercules: The Legendary Journeys. Lucy Lawless, a New Zealand-born actress who had largely gone under the radar prior to that, instantly hooked viewers with her portrayal of the fierce warrior, which ultimately spawned the spin-off series that has a continued cult following even after its 2001 conclusion. Though Lawless acted during her youth, it was after the birth of her first daughter that she returned to those roots, taking on commercial work and small parts on TV here and there before Xena launched her to fame. While it’s been quite some time since the show has aired, she still holds a piece of the character with her.

“I do very few conventions and things mostly because I’m busy working, but it still exists and I’ve never run from the legacy of Xena and all of that,” the actress told Vice in 2017. “I’m really grateful for what it gave me and the work was fun and created this amazing fan base.” 

Xena wasn’t just a show but a cultural phenomenon. Lawless brought to life a strong, complex and unapologetically fierce character. Through her portrayal, she shattered stereotypes and inspired viewers around the world. Xena wasn’t just a hero—she was a symbol of empowerment and resilience. In its second season, the show became the top-rated drama series on American TV, eventually wrapping after six seasons. But the show lived on, airing in more than 108 countries and being tapped as one of TV Guide’s top cult shows ever. A reboot was attempted in 2015 but canceled before it even made it to air. Xena remains popular today through comic books, video games and fan conventions. From her breakout role as the formidable Xena to her dedicated activism on social and environmental issues, Lawless has carved out a multifaceted career that transcends Hollywood’s boundaries.

Life after ‘Xena: Warrior Princess’ for Lucy Lawless

Beyond the world of Xena, the actress continued to captivate audiences with her versatility and talent. From her role as Lucretia in Spartacus: Blood and Sand (2010) to her memorable appearances in Battlestar Galactica (2005-2009) and Ash vs. Evil Dead (2015), Lawless has proved time and again that she could play diverse characters with depth and authenticity. Lawless also returned to her musical roots, wowing fans with her voice in the 2006 TV show, Celebrity Duets. The actress has also appeared in series such as Parks and Recreation and Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. In more recent years, Lawless has kept busy, making her directorial debut with 2024’s Never Look Away. The documentary film about photojournalist Margaret Moth was new territory for Lawless, but an experience she welcomed with open arms. As for whether or not she’ll direct again any time soon, Lawless told POV Magazine she is “horribly hooked now.” She continued, “I can’t wait to jump back into that moat of sharks because you’re problem solving on so many levels every day. It’s very addictive. I’m working on three projects at the moment in different stages of development, but I really believe in them.”

That isn’t to say she’s putting acting aside. Lawless has also been enjoying her time on the screen over the last several years in the series My Life Is a Murder. Yet, it’s not just her on-screen performances that define Lucy Lawless. She has also become a vocal advocate for numerous social and environmental causes.

Lucy Lawless as an advocate

Whether speaking out on climate change, championing women’s rights, or supporting LGBTQ+ rights, Lawless has used her platform to effect positive change in the world. Lawless has said she’s more of an activist than she is an actress.

“You put your body and your time on the line for causes that you believe in because you want to leave the world better off. You put your body on the line when you show up for a protest on Queen Street. Showing up is really critical to indicate to the politicians that you are serious about this,” she told RNZ. “The activism, you want to be part of some good change…but show business? I don’t care,” she continued. In addition to her professional accomplishments and advocacy work, Lawless is also a dedicated mother and partner. Balancing the demands of a high-profile career with family life isn’t easy, but Lawless does so with grace and determination. She has been married to producer Robert Tapert for the last 25 years and has three kids. At 57 years old, though the Xena days have gone by, Lawless shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon. As she continues to evolve personally and professionally, the Xena star remains an enduring figure in the entertainment industry. Whether she’s wielding a sword on-screen or fighting for social justice off-screen, one thing is clear: Lucy Lawless is a true warrior in every sense.