Xena: Warrior Princess - Where Are They Now?

Hey guys! Remember Xena: Warrior Princess? That show was totally iconic, right? From the late '90s to the early 2000s, Xena and Gabrielle were like, the power couple kicking butt and taking names across ancient Greece. But what happened to the amazing cast after the series ended? Let's dive in and see where everyone is now!

Lucy Lawless (Xena)

Lucy Lawless is Xena. Seriously, it's impossible to think of anyone else in that role. This woman defined female empowerment on television for a whole generation. But what has she been up to since hanging up the chakram? Well, she definitely hasn't slowed down! Lawless has enjoyed a remarkably consistent and varied career. She's popped up in everything from Battlestar Galactica, where she played the intriguing D'Anna Biers, to Parks and Recreation, where she hilariously portrayed Ron Swanson's wife, Diane. Talk about range!

But that’s not all, guys. She’s been a regular on shows like Spartacus, Salem, and Ash vs Evil Dead, proving she’s still got the action chops and a wicked sense of humor. More recently, you might have spotted her in Minions: The Rise of Gru, lending her voice to one of the Vicious 6. And guess what? She even starred in the Acorn TV series My Life Is Murder, where she plays a kick-ass private investigator in New Zealand. How cool is that? Lucy Lawless continues to be a force to be reckoned with, proving that some warriors never truly retire. What’s also awesome is that she's a big advocate for environmental causes, using her platform to make a real difference in the world. So, not only is she a total badass on screen, but she's also a total badass in real life. We love you, Lucy!

Renée O'Connor (Gabrielle)

Gabrielle, Xena's loyal sidekick and eventual soulmate, was brought to life by the wonderful Renée O'Connor. Gabrielle started as a naive farm girl, but she evolved into a fierce warrior and skilled diplomat. Renée O'Connor played this transformation beautifully, capturing Gabrielle's heart and strength. After Xena, O'Connor took a slightly different path than Lawless, focusing more on independent films and theater. She starred in several films, including Boogeyman 2 and Alien Apocalypse. While she may not have been in the mainstream spotlight as much, she's been consistently working and honing her craft.

O'Connor also directed a few projects, showing her talents behind the camera. She directed the film Words Unspoken, showcasing her creative vision. In addition to her acting and directing work, she's also a dedicated acting teacher, helping aspiring actors find their own voice and develop their skills. She's also a mom and seems to really cherish her family life. So, while she might not be slaying monsters every day, she's definitely living a full and rewarding life. And who knows? Maybe one day we'll see her back in a big role, ready to kick some serious butt again! We’re always rooting for you, Renée!

Ted Raimi (Joxer)

Ah, Joxer! The lovable, if somewhat inept, warrior who provided much of the comic relief on Xena. Ted Raimi, brother of the legendary Sam Raimi, played Joxer with so much heart and goofiness that he became a fan favorite. Seriously, who didn't love Joxer? Ted Raimi has had a long and prolific career, often appearing in his brother's films, like the Evil Dead franchise and Spider-Man. He's one of those character actors that you always recognize and are happy to see pop up.

Post-Xena, Raimi has continued to work steadily in both film and television. He's appeared in shows like SeaQuest DSV, Twin Peaks, and Supernatural. He’s also done voice work for animated series and video games. He’s even written and directed some of his own projects. Basically, Ted Raimi is a true entertainment industry multi-hyphenate. He’s also known for being super approachable and friendly with fans at conventions. He always seems to have a smile on his face and is genuinely appreciative of the support he receives. Ted is a reminder that not all heroes wear capes; some wear ridiculously oversized armor and wield a comically large sword – and we love him for it!

Kevin Smith (Ares)

Ares, the god of war, was a complex and compelling villain on Xena, often playing both antagonist and reluctant ally. Kevin Smith (not that Kevin Smith, the director) brought a smoldering intensity to the role, making Ares both menacing and strangely charismatic. Sadly, Kevin Smith passed away in 2002 at the young age of 38. His death was a huge loss to the Xena family and the acting community. He was remembered as a talented actor and a genuinely kind person.

Before his untimely passing, Smith had a successful career in New Zealand film and television. Besides Xena, he also starred in shows like Hercules: The Legendary Journeys and films like Desperate Remedies. His portrayal of Ares remains iconic, and he is greatly missed by fans and colleagues alike. He brought a unique energy to the role that no one else could replicate. His presence on screen was captivating, and he left a lasting impact on the show. Though his time was short, his contribution to the world of Xena will never be forgotten.

What Made Xena So Special?

Xena: Warrior Princess wasn't just another action show; it was something truly special. It combined mythology, action, humor, and heart in a way that resonated with audiences around the world. The show was groundbreaking in its portrayal of strong female characters and its exploration of complex themes. It wasn't afraid to tackle difficult subjects like redemption, forgiveness, and the consequences of violence.

One of the things that made Xena so unique was its willingness to embrace its own campiness. The show never took itself too seriously, and it often poked fun at its own conventions. This self-awareness made it even more endearing to fans. The chemistry between Lucy Lawless and Renée O'Connor was electric, and their on-screen relationship was one of the most compelling aspects of the show. They portrayed a deep and abiding friendship that transcended the boundaries of the screen. Xena also had a huge impact on LGBTQ+ representation on television. While never explicitly stated, the romantic subtext between Xena and Gabrielle was undeniable, and it resonated with many viewers. The show provided a space for queer fans to see themselves represented on screen, and it helped to pave the way for greater LGBTQ+ visibility in media. The show's legacy continues to this day, with fans still celebrating its characters, its stories, and its message of hope and empowerment. It remains a testament to the power of television to inspire, entertain, and connect people from all walks of life.

So, there you have it! A little glimpse into what the cast of Xena: Warrior Princess is up to these days. It's great to see that they've all continued to thrive in their own ways. Xena may be over, but its legacy lives on, and the impact it had on television and popular culture is undeniable. And who knows? Maybe one day we'll get a reboot or a reunion. A girl can dream, right? Until then, we'll always have the memories of Xena, Gabrielle, Joxer, and the rest of the gang kicking butt and saving the world, one episode at a time.