Lucy Lawless - Xena
Did you know that before Lucy Lawless blew up with her titular role on "Xena: Warrior Princess," the Kiwi was doing her fair share of comedy? That’s right, Lawless was one of the cast members of the New Zealand-based sketch comedy show "Funny Business."
Gradually, she moved on to relatively small roles in shows such as "High Tide," "Shark in the Park," and "The Ray Bradbury Theater." Eventually, she managed to reprise the role of Xena on the parent series "Hercules: The Legendary Journeys." After making a huge impact alongside Kevin Sorbo and the rest of the crew, Lawless was asked to return to the role in her own spinoff series, and the rest was history.
Lucy Lawless - Now
There is no denying that Lucy Lawless has never really been able to top her performance as Xena. In terms of her career, that is still her apex mountain until this very day. With that said, Lawless has added many interesting strings to her bow over the years.
The actress has been married to Robert Tapert since 1998, whom she has had two sons with. In more recent times, Lawless has had voice roles in animated movies such as "Minions: The Rise of Gru" and "The Spine of Night." She also had a minor role as the eventual wife of Ron Swanson in "Parks and Recreation."
Renee O'Connor - Gabrielle
Renee O’Connor started her acting career at just 16 years of age. She went on to appear in shows like "Tales from the Crypt," "ABC Afterschool Specials," and "FBI: The Untold Stories" during the early 1990s. After doing a bunch of small TV roles and commercials, Renee hit the jackpot in 1994 when she landed the role of Deianeira in the TV movie "Hercules and the Lost Kingdom."
This performance caught the attention of Rob Tapert and Sam Raimi, the showrunners of "Xena: Warrior Princess," who instantly cast her as Gabrielle in 1995. And boy, did she rock that role for six wonderful seasons!
Renee O'Connor - Now
Similar to co-star Lucy Lawless, Renee O’Connor has never managed to eclipse her performance as Gabrielle in "Xena: Warrior Princess." Despite this, the talented actress has had some lowkey success in film, TV, and theater over the years.
In the latter, she has had roles as Lady Macbeth in "Macbeth," The Wicked Witch of the West from "The Wizard of Oz," and as The Nurse in "Romeo and Juliet." Since the days of Xena, O’Connor has been married twice, having children from both marriages. Her most recent role came in an episode of "My Life Is Murder," which, funnily enough, stars Lucy Lawless in the lead role.
Ted Raimi - Joxer
Ted Raimi is an acting sensation who started his career at just 17 years of age. He first worked on films for big-time brands like General Motors, Ford, and Chrysler in Detroit. His first credited role came in 1977 when he had a small but significant part in the short film "It's Murder!"
Since then, he's been a regular on TV shows like "Twin Peaks," "Alien Nation," and "Baywatch," to name a few. In 1996, Raimi landed the role of Joxer in the iconic show "Xena: Warrior Princess," which was produced by none other than his brother, Sam Raimi. Talk about keeping it in the family! Joxer became an overnight fan favorite.
Ted Raimi - Now
While he might not be as successful as his brother, that was never the point of Ted Raimi. This actor was always happy to help Sam Raimi in his many directorial efforts, whether that be through acting in minor roles in his movies or doing his own thing, lending his voice to various video games.
Naturally, he continued to do work in the "Evil Dead" franchise, reprising his role as Possessed Henrietta in the revival series "Ash vs Evil Dead." In 2022, Ted worked with director Alex Kahuam on the feature "Failure!," which was shot in one single take. Remarkable stuff.
Hudson Leick - Callisto
This might be pretty difficult to believe, but the actress who played the iconic villainess Callisto actually started her career as a model in Japan! Only after deciding to switch things up, Hudson Leick landed her first acting role in 1992 on "CBS Schoolbreak Special."
From there, Leick went on to play a bunch of smaller roles throughout the 90s, including minor parts on "Law & Order," "Knight Rider 2010," "Melrose Place," "University Hospital," and "Hijacked: Flight 285." 1996 saw Hudson finally break through when she was put on the cast of "Xena: Warrior Princess." She slayed (quite literally) in the role of Callisto.
Hudson Leick - Now
Truth be told, Hudson Leick hasn’t exactly reached for the acting stars since her time on "Xena: Warrior Princess" came to an end. She has had some cameos here and there, appearing sporadically in shows such as "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation," "Law & Order: LA," and "Nip/Tuck," to name a few.
But her main calling over the last couple of decades has been in more spiritual matters. Leick practices yoga, and has been teaching her own version of 5Rhythms called "Sacred Dance." Hudson has hosted yoga workshops all around the world, including in the UK and Eastern Europe. She even provides astrological readings!
Karl Urban - Julius Caesar
What about Karl Urban? This awesome actor’s journey began with a recurring role as Rohann Murdoch in the New Zealand series "Shark in the Park." Urban showed up in some pretty cool shows along the way, such as "White Fang," "Homeward Bound," "Shortland Street," "Riding High," and even "Hercules: The Legendary Journeys."
But let's not forget his appearances on "Xena: Warrior Princess!" He first played the role of Cupid in 1996 but then went on to slay as Julius Caesar and Kor. Clearly, he was able to display his versatility in many different roles. But, oh boy, that was just the beginning.
Karl Urban - Now
"Xena: Warrior Princess" was just the tip of the iceberg for Karl Urban’s career. After showing up in a couple of "The Lord of the Rings" movies, the New Zealander’s reputation got bigger and bigger, starring in movies such as "Doom," "Dredd," and "Star Trek."
There is no denying, though, that Urban’s career reached a completely new stratosphere when he landed the role of Billy Butcher in the popular Amazon Prime series "The Boys." It’s also worth mentioning that Urban has since been in a relationship with popular actress Katee Sakhoff, who is one of the leads of Disney+’s "The Mandalorian."
Adrienne Wilkinson - Eve
There is no doubt Eve is one of the coolest characters in "Xena: Warrior Princess." Adrienne Wilkinson plays the long-lost daughter of Xena and Marcus and displays some pretty funny jokes and warrior skills in equal measure.
Before her role as Eve, Wilkinson had already made a splash in the acting world, appearing on shows such as "Sweet Valley High" and "Chicken Soup for the Soul." She even had a small role in "Saved by the Bell: The New Class," but blink, and you might miss it! As soon as she was cast in her defining role, Eve quickly became a fan favorite, largely due to her smart, witty lines and ferociousness.
Adrienne Wilkinson - Now
It's not as if Adrienne Wilkinson hasn’t done anything since she called time on her role as Eve. In fact, this talented actress has been extremely busy, lending her voice to animated roles in shows such as "Star Wars: The Clone Wars" and "Star Wars: Rebels."
Wilkinson has also had a successful career voicing roles in video games, being credited in "Saints Row," "Rise of the Tomb Raider," and many more. She also created her very own interview YouTube series called "From the Mouth of Babes." Outside of work, Wilkinson does many charitable efforts, including animal welfare and literacy programs.
Alexandra Tydings - Aphrodite
After graduating from Brown University, Alexandra Tydings made her acting debut in the early 1990s. And in 1993, she was really on a roll, having landed five roles in the first year of her career. She appeared in movies such as "Angst," "Alice," "Queerbait," "Walking on Sunshine," and "Red Shoe Diaries."
By 1996, Tydings had landed the role of Aphrodite on "Hercules: The Legendary Journeys," which allowed her to make the natural leap into a recurring role on "Xena: Warrior Princess." Tydings played Aphrodite for six amazing seasons, from 1996 to 2001, and made several guest appearances on the show after that.
Alexandra Tydings - Now
It’s safe to say that Alexandra Tydings hasn’t exactly built upon the momentum that came from her time in the Xena and Hercules extended universe. She did have a couple of minor TV appearances, showing up on "Sheena" and even in the final season of "The Wire."
In place of her acting career, Tydings has written and directed a multi-media piece called "The Trial of Hanna Porn," for which she won the award for Best of Fringe at the Charm City Fringe Festival. She also directed (and wrote) an independent film called "Rainbow Bridge." Both pieces advocated for pro-choice opinions.
Marton Csokas - Borias
A native of New Zealand, Marton Csokas has been through a rollercoaster ride of a career in acting. His journey started in 1990, landing his first acting role as Terry Mercer on an episode of "Shark in the Park." He then proceeded to appear in various TV shows, including "The Ray Bradbury Theater," "Shortland Street," and "Hercules: The Legendary Journeys."
Csokas also appeared in short films such as "A Game with No Rules" and "Twilight of the Gods" before finally landing the role of Borias on "Xena: Warrior Princess" in 1997. Csokas’s good looks and raw talent helped him evolve into a familiar name in the world of entertainment.
Marton Csokas - Now
The turn of the millennium was a pretty eventful time for Marton Csokas. He managed to have minor roles in some of the most major film franchises, including "The Lord of the Rings," "Star Wars," and "XXX." In more recent times, Csokas has appeared in movies such as "The Last Duel" and "The Amazing Spider-Man 2."
He has also done his fair share of TV, having appeared in shows such as "Sons of Liberty," "Into the Badlands," and "The Luminaries." It’s also worth noting that at one point since Xena, Csokas was in a relationship with Eva Green, of all people.
Danielle Cormack - Ephiny
Danielle Cormack is a talented actress from New Zealand who started her career with a bang! She first appeared in the popular TV series "Gloss" from 1987 to 1989. She then joined the cast of the New Zealand soap opera "Shortland Street" in 1992.
Cormack went on to play small roles in various TV shows like "Overnight" and "High Tide," as well as movies like "Snap," "A Game with No Rules," and "The Last Tattoo." However, her career took a turn for the best when she landed the role of Ephiny on "Xena: Warrior Princess" in 1995. Cormack always made her stunning presence felt on screen.
Danielle Cormack - Now
While she hasn’t managed to hold down much of her film acting career, Danielle Cormack has kept things steady in the TV department over the years. Since "Xena" ended, the actress has appeared in more than 20 shows, having a main role in the series "Wentworth."
For this role, she won the Logie Award for Most Oustanding Actress. She has also had memorable roles in shows such as "Secret City" and "The Secrets She Keeps." Cormack has also been a pretty prolific theater actor over the years. Some of her most recent productions in New Zealand and Australia that she’s featured on included "Whose Afraid," "Hedda," and "Blessed Union."
Bruce Campbell - Autolycus
Bruce Campbell's journey into the entertainment industry began in his teenage years when he met his buddy Sam Raimi in high school. Together, they made short films like "It's Murder!" and "Within the Woods." Fast forward a few years, and Campbell had landed a regular role on "The Adventures of Brisco County, Jr."
It wasn't long until his charm and wit caught the attention of the producers of "Hercules: The Legendary Journeys," leading to his iconic role as Autolycus. And, of course, this paved the way for his unforgettable appearance on "Xena: Warrior Princess." Bruce Campbell's incredible talent and friendship with Sam Raimi are what brought him into our lives in the first place.
Bruce Campbell - Now
It's fair to say that a moment hasn’t gone in the last 30+ years when Bruce Campbell wasn’t busy in some kind of acting role. In the last decade alone, he has made the most of his "Evil Dead" reputation, appearing in the Fede Alvarez rendition and also the 2023 movie "Evil Dead Rise."
Campbell even found his way into the Marvel Cinematic Universe, appearing in a post-credits scene in "Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness." Since 2014, Campbell has hosted his very own horror film festival, which usually takes place annually in August. He has been married to Ida Gearon since 1992, and the couple live in Jacksonville, Oregon.
Timothy Omundson - Eli
You might not recognize Timothy Omundson's name just yet, but you've definitely seen him on your TV screen! Before he landed the role of Eli on "Xena: Warrior Princess," he made brief appearances on some classic shows like "Seinfeld," "Married... with Children," and "Frasier."
He also dabbled in film with credits in "Dead of Night" and "Starship Troopers." However, it wasn't until Xena that Omundson had a chance to really shine. He appeared in six episodes between 1999 and 2000, and fans couldn't get enough of him! With his undeniable talent and charming smile, fans were sure that Timothy Omundson was destined for greatness.
Timothy Omundson - Now
Timothy Omundson has managed to keep himself very busy since his recurring role on "Xena: Warrior Princess" came to an end. A prolific character actor, Omundson has appeared on TV a lot over the last two decades, with main roles in shows such as "Judging Amy," "Psych," and "Galavant."
He has also guest-appeared on famous shows like "24," "Lucifer," and "Supernatural," to name a few. Omundson has had two kids with his wife Allison Cowley. In 2017, the actor, unfortunately, suffered a major stroke, which reportedly affected his ability to walk. Despite this, he has continued to act during his recovery.
Claire Stansfield - Alti
Get ready to be wowed by the multi-talented Claire Stansfield! Although born in London, this starlet grew up in Toronto, Canada. She first got into the world of entertainment as a model before training at London's Central School of Speech and Drama. Stansfield then set her sights on Hollywood and quickly landed her first acting gig in 1986 on an episode of "Hot Shots."
She went on to score roles in popular shows like "Twin Peaks," "The Flash," and "Sibs," as well as movies like "The Doors" and "Red Shoe Diaries." Her undeniable talent and stunning looks made her a fan favorite, and it wasn't long until she graced our screens as the fierce Alti on "Xena: Warrior Princess."
Claire Stansfield - Now
It is safe to say that Claire Stansfield might have one of the most mysterious fates since her time on "Xena" came to an end. Amazingly, she doesn’t have one single acting credit since her role as Alti. This is bizarre, especially when you consider the kinds of shows she was appearing on during the 90s.
Despite this, Stansfield did reportedly create her own designer clothing company by the name of C&C California. She founded it with her friend, theater actress Cheyann Benedict (hence the name C&C). In 2005, the company was acquired by Liz Claiborne. Besides that, the only other thing we know about Claire is that she has a private Instagram account.
Jennifer Sky - Amarice
Say hello to the stunning Jennifer Sky! This talented actress and model began her career in the fashion industry at the young age of 15 before making the switch to acting just two years later. Her career quickly took off, with appearances on iconic TV shows such as "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," "Pacific Blue," and "General Hospital," where she played the unforgettable Sarah Webber.
However, it was her role as Amarice on "Xena: Warrior Princess" that truly solidified her place in Hollywood. Sky's undeniable talent and beauty captured the hearts of viewers, making her a fan favorite on the show.
Jennifer Sky - Now
Funnily enough, although Jennifer Sky landed a lead role as Cleopatra “Cleo” in the show "Cleopatra 2525," the show only lasted for two seasons. So it seems that Jennifer Sky will still be best remembered for her six episodes as Amarice in "Xena: Warrior Princess."
Since then, Sky has appeared on shows such as "Charmed" and "CSI: Miami," as well as the finale of "Columbo." In 2013, Sky was featured in an article in "The New York Times" titled “My Life as a Warrior Princess.” The article compared and contrasted her negative experiences working as a teenage fashion model to the much better conditions she experienced working on "Xena: Warrior Princess."
William Gregory Lee - Virgil
William Gregory Lee may have only been on "Xena: Warrior Princess" for a short time, but it was a big stepping stone for his acting career! Before landing the role of Virgil, Lee was popping up on TV screens in small roles on shows like "Beverly Hills, 90210," and "The Young and the Restless."
But it was his stint on "Xena" that really helped put him on the map. With only six episodes under his belt, Lee's portrayal of Virgil was certainly memorable. After his time on the show, Lee went on to appear in a variety of other TV shows and movies, cementing his status as a rising star in Hollywood.
William Gregory Lee - Now
While 20+ years have passed since his role as Virgil, this hasn’t stopped William Gregory Lee from staying busy in both film and TV. Around the same time, he also had a brief appearance in the Jessica Alba-led "Dark Angel." Lee also appeared on renowned shows such as "Dante’s Cover," "Justified," and even "The Walking Dead."
And it’s not just on TV where you might have seen him. In recent times, Lee managed to show up in a huge blockbuster, playing the role of aerospace engineer Gordon Cooper in the film "First Man," directed by Damien Chazelle. Virgil fans were amazed to see him after all this time.
Tsianina Joelson - Varia
Tsianina Joelson may have only appeared on "Xena: Warrior Princess" for a short time, but she made a lasting impression with her portrayal of Varia from 2000 to 2001. Before she became an actress, Joelson won the prestigious title of Miss Coos County in 1993.
Afterward, she went on to be featured in popular films such as "Bring It On," "Boys and Girls," and "Held for Ransom" during the early 2000s. Joelson also co-hosted a hip MTV series called "The Daily Burn" in 1998, showcasing her dynamic personality and charm. With her talent, style, and natural beauty, Tsianina Joelson is undoubtedly one of the most talented actresses in the entertainment industry.
Tsianina Joelson - Now
Other than an appearance in the sequel to "American Pie," there hasn’t been that much that Tsianina Joelson was featured in as an actress over the last couple of decades. She did show up in low-budget movies such as "Hollywood Division," "The Rain Makers," and "According to Greta."
Since then, Joelson really hasn't made any splashes in the acting world and lays relatively low on social media too. In 2004, she married Michael Lohmann, who she has been raising a family with and is still with until this very day. It seems like Joelson simply wanted to take a step back from acting.
Melinda Clarke - Velasca
Melinda Clarke played the role of Velasca on “Xena: Warrior Princess,” a powerful warrior who was very reserved emotionally. With that said, the character did develop a lot as the show progressed. Clarke was incredible in the role, playing it with a level of fierceness and intensity rarely seen these days.
Not your run-of-the-mill villain, Velasca added plenty of intrigue and nuance to the show, including memorable battles against Xena. Before her role as Velasca, Clarke had already appeared on shows such as "Days of Our Lives" while also showing up in movies like "Spawn" and "Return of the Living Dead 3."
Melinda Clarke - Now
Melinda Clarke’s career post "Xena" has been deeply rooted in TV. In fact, shortly after her two-episode spell, she appeared on shows such as "Seinfeld," "Star Trek: Enterprise," and "CSI," to name a few. Clarke developed a whole new fan base with her role as Julie Cooper in "The OC."
She even ended up appearing on "Entourage," playing a character called Melinda Clarke, but not as herself, strangely enough. In more recent times, she has had main roles on shows such as "Nikita." "OC" fans were excited to tune in to her podcast "Welcome to the OC, B*****s!," which ran from 2021-22.
Darien Takle - Cyrene
Darien Takle, who played Xena's mom Cyrene, has quite the acting resume! Her film debut was way back in 1972 with "Gone Up North for a While." She kept the ball rolling throughout the next few decades with roles in "The Lost Tribe," "Second Time Lucky," and "Possession" in the '80s.
Then she moved on to roles in "Typhon's People" and "Heavenly Creatures" in the early '90s. Her biggest role, of course, came in 1995 when she joined the cast of "Xena: Warrior Princess." It is safe to say that Takle has been keeping audiences entertained for quite some time!
Darien Takle - Cyrene
It would basically be a huge understatement to say that Darien Takle’s acting career hasn’t exactly been eventful since her eight-episode run on "Xena: Warrior Princess." In fact, she has just about a dozen acting credits to her name since departing the show. Probably the highlights of those credits include her appearance in a TV movie called "Deceit" and appearing on one episode of the TV series "Power Rangers Dino Fury."
Her most recent acting credit came in an episode of the show "My Life Is Murder." It seems that Takle has had more success on stage, having been an active member of the Auckland Theatre Company back in her home country of New Zealand.
Charles Mesure - Michael
Charles Mesure is a man of many talents. The English-born Australian actor studied at the National Institute of Dramatic Art, where he honed his craft and developed his passion for acting. He quickly landed a role on the New Zealand show "City Life," where he spent two years captivating audiences as Ryan Waters.
Mesure then went on to join the cast of "Xena: Warrior Princess," where he took on three roles over three years: Darnelle, Mercer, and Archangel Michael. His time on the show helped cement his status as a beloved actor and earned him fans all over the world.
Charles Mesure - Now
He might be one of the most successful actors in this, but Charles Mesure certainly wasn’t one of the least either. This New Zealand performer managed to keep fairly steady in terms of acting credentials as the years progressed. Shortly after "Xena: Warrior Princess," Mesure landed a main role on the New Zealand series "Street Legal," writing seven of the show’s episodes along the way.
But probably Mesure’s most memorable career move came in his role as Ben Faulkner on the hit series "Desperate Housewives." Despite not having an acting credit since 2018, he is relatively active on social media, regularly posting on Twitter.
Kathryn Morris - Najara
Najara is a character in "Xena: Warrior Princess," played by the lovely Kathryn Morris. She's a pacifist who thinks violence is never the answer. Well, until she changes her mind and starts throwing punches. Oops! Before joining the "Xena" crew, Kathryn had been in a bunch of cool shows and movies.
On the small screen, she appeared in shows such as "Sweet Justice" and "L.A. Firefighters" and was a lead on the series "Pensacola: Wings of Gold." Morris also showed up in flicks such as "As Good as It Gets" and "Cool as Ice." But her career really took off after "Xena."
Kathryn Morris - Now
Kathryn Morris did a great job playing Najara, even if she did change her mind about the whole non-violence thing. After "Xena," she went on to star in a crime drama called "Cold Case," where she solved mysteries and looked cool doing it. Over the course of seven years, she starred in a whopping 156 episodes.
Outside of acting, Morris developed a relationship with "Cold Case" co-star Johnny Messner. Since then, the couple had twin sons, Jameson and Rocco, who were diagnosed with autism at three years of age. Morris started the initiative "The Savants" to “revolutionize how the world lives on and off the spectrum.”
Erik Thomson - Hades
Hades is one of the coolest characters in "Xena: Warrior Princess," and that's not just because he's the god of the underworld. He's got a great sense of humor, an awesome wardrobe, and a charm that could woo anyone — including Xena herself. Eric Thomson, the actor who played Hades, had a pretty interesting career before taking on the role of the god of death.
He's appeared in a bunch of TV shows, including "Hercules: The Legendary Journeys," "Charmed," and "Beverly Hills 90210." But it’s widely agreed upon that his portrayal of Hades is what really sets him apart. With his deep voice, slick hair, and sharp wit, Thomson brought Hades to life in a way that's still remembered fondly by Xena fans to this day.
Erik Thomson - Now
It would be fair to say that Erik Thomson has never quite eclipsed his role as Hades since the show ended. With that said, the Scottish-born New Zealander has stayed relatively active in the world of acting up until this very day. Thomson eventually relocated to Australia and settled down with fellow actress Caitlin McDougall, and had two children: a daughter called Eilish and a son called Magnus.
They currently reside in Port Willunga, South Australia. It was Down Under that Thomson was most prolific, having lead roles in three shows: medical drama "All Saints," family comedy "Packed to the Rafters," and comedy-drama "800 Words."
Jay Laga'aia - Draco
There were many terrific New Zealanders who starred in "Xena: Warrior Princess" at varying lengths. And while Jay Laga'aia only showed up in a handful of episodes, his appearances will never be forgotten. The talented actor showed up as Draco, a warlord who also had a fling with Xena at one point in her life.
In fact, he had been hit by Cupid's arrow, which explains why he fell in love with the warrior princess. Before "Xena," Jay was a member of the band The Consorts and made a couple of one-off appearances on local TV shows such as "The Other Side of Paradise."
Jay Laga'aia - Now
Believe it or not, but Jay Laga'aia left such a big impression on the "Xena" fans that even George Lucas himself couldn't help but admire. He snapped him up for a small role as Gregar Typho in both "Star Wars" movies "Attack of the Clones" and "Revenge of the Sith."
Since then, Jay has also been pretty prolific in TV, having main roles in shows such as "Street Legal," "Bed of Roses," and "Jay's Jungle." Outside of his career, Jay has been happily married to Sandra Jane for more than 30 years, and the couple have had a whopping eight kids together!
Alexis Arquette - Caligula
When you come from a family as famous as the Arquettes, you're bound to have some serious talent running through your veins. The apple certainly didn't fall far from the tree, as far as Alexis Arquette was concerned. Having already shown up on both the big and small screens, Alexis was no stranger to acting by the time she ended up on "Xena."
She showed up in two episodes, playing Caligula, of all people. Prior to "Xena," she showed up on shows such as "Roseanne," "Felicity," and "Friends." She even had a pretty unforgettable cameo in "Pulp Fiction," getting unceremoniously vanquished by Vincent and Jules (spoiler alert!).
Alexis Arquette - Now
There is no denying that Alexis Arquette was one of the most high-profile celebrities to undergo gender-reaffirming medical treatment. Born under a different name, the world would start to know her as Alexis. However, the acting opportunities seemed to dry up a little, and truth be told, Alexis didn't have many serious roles during the remainder of her life.
Though she did famously have a noteworthy cameo in the music video for Robbie Williams's single "She's Madonna." Sadly, after living with HIV for about three decades, Arquette passed away from cardiac arrest caused by myocarditis in 2016. She was 47 years old.
Jacqueline Kim - Lao Ma
Lao Ma is one of the coolest characters in "Xena: Warrior Princess," played by the amazing Jacqueline Kim. She's the ruler of the Kingdom of Lao and is basically a total boss. She teaches Xena about the power of love and compassion and makes us all want to be better people.
Before playing Lao Ma, Jacqueline Kim had already made a name for herself in Hollywood with roles in movies like "The Mighty Ducks" and "Volcano." But it was her role in "Xena" that really made her stand out. Fans loved her as Lao Ma, and she quickly became one of the show's most memorable guest stars.
Jacqueline Kim - Now
Jacqueline Kim’s career looked to be steadily gathering pace after her brief time on "Xena: Warrior Princess" came to an end. She appeared sporadically in a couple of high-profile TV shows, including "ER" and "The West Wing." Kim also continued to act in a bunch of other cool projects, including the films "Brokedown Palace" and "The Operator."
She even co-founded a theater company and has been recognized for her work in promoting diversity in Hollywood. Her most recent film endeavor actually came behind the camera. In 2015, she co-wrote and produced the film "Advantageous," which starred the likes of Ken Jeong, Jennifer Ehle, and James Urbaniak.
Kate Elliott – Yakut
Yakut is one of the coolest characters in "Xena: Warrior Princess," played by the awesome Kate Elliott. She's the leader of the Northern Amazon tribe and is basically a total badass. She's smart, strategic, and knows how to handle a sword.
When it comes to a warrior princess, what else do you want? Before playing Yakut, Kate Elliott was born in raised in Auckland and already started to make waves in the New Zealand entertainment industry. She had appeared in the TV film "House of Sticks." But it was her role in Xena that really put her on the map.
Kate Elliott - Now
After "Xena: Warrior Princess" ended, Kate continued to act in a number of interesting projects, including the TV show "Outrageous Fortune" and the movie "30 Days of Night." She's also an accomplished author with several fantasy novels under her belt. We're pretty sure she's a superhero in real life too.
Elliott has also had an eventful personal life, having been married and divorced twice – once to New Zealand band Pluto’s lead singer Milan Borich. In 2019, she came out as queer to her daughter. And during the same year, she landed a lead role in the crime drama series "The Gulf."
Stephen Lovatt - Hades/Phlanagus
Stephen Lovatt is a New Zealand actor who has had a fantastic career in film, television, and theater. He graduated from the New Zealand Drama School and has since appeared in "The Ray Bradbury Theater" and "Typhon's People."
In 1994, he played Dr. Ethan Zol on the popular soap opera "Shortland Street" for a couple of months before moving on to other projects like "High Tide" and "Mysterious Island." His big break came in 1996 when he joined the cast of "Xena: Warrior Princess." Despite only being on the show for a short time, Lovatt left a lasting impression on fans with his unforgettable performances.
Stephen Lovatt - Now
Since his time on "Xena: Warrior Princess," Stephen Lovatt’s acting career has been steadily pushing along up until the present day. He famously played Max Hoyland on the popular Australian soap opera "Neighbors." Also, he had an impactful role as Tullius in the series "Spartacus: Gods of the Arena," which acted as a prequel to the popular historical series "Spartacus."
Lovatt ended up in a minor role on the show "Ash vs Evil Dead," which also included "Xena: Warrior Princess" co-star Lucy Lawless. One of his more recent roles came as Dr. Emmett Whitman in the New Zealand medical soap opera "Shortland Street."
Meighan Desmond - Discord/Sturgina
Meighan Desmond, a New Zealand actress, made her mark in the late 90s by starring in popular TV shows such as "Young Hercules," "Hercules: The Legendary Journeys," and "Xena: Warrior Princess." She began her career in acting with a role on the New Zealand soap opera "Shortland Street" in 1992.
In 1998, Desmond was featured in the movie "When Love Comes Along." From 1997 to 2007, Desmond played two roles, Discord and Sturgina, on "Xena: Warrior Princess," which kept her quite busy fighting on our screens. With her talent and dedication, Desmond has become a well-known name in the entertainment industry.
Meighan Desmond - Now
Despite being one of only five actors to have played the same character on all three "Hercules" shows (the others being Kevin Smith, Jason Hoyte, Michael Hurst, and Erik Thomson), Meighan Desmond doesn’t really have that many more impressive acting credentials to her name.
After "Xena," Desmond seems to have only one other acting credit, appearing on an episode of the show "Mataku." It is also mentioned on IMDB that Desmond worked as a construction office assistant on the live-action remake of the popular Disney movie "Mulan." And who are we to question IMDB? Other than that, she keeps all her social media accounts private.
Mark Ferguson - Multiple Characters
There have been a handful of actors out there who weren't necessarily known for playing one main role in "Xena: Warrior Princess." Instead, they ended up showing up on the show sporadically, playing a different character on virtually every episode they were in. Mark Ferguson was a prime example of a performer who did just this.
Starting from his time on the "Hercules" shows up until his final appearance on "Xena" in 1999, Ferguson played a staggering six different characters. These were: Hades, Prometheus, Craesus the Centaur, Krykus, Dagnine, and John Smythe. Before "Xena," Ferguson was best known for playing Darryl Neilson on the show "Shortland Street."
Mark Ferguson - Now
While he hasn't been signing up for many acting roles since the turn of the century, Mark Ferguson has still been keeping himself fairly busy in the world of entertainment. Bar one noteworthy exception. The Australian actor did have a minor role as Gil-galad in "The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring."
Beyond that, though, he's been better known for hosting a couple of popular reality TV shows, such as Australia's edition of "Big Brother" and "The Mole." Ferguson's most recent acting role came in the TV series "Spartacus: War of the Damned," in which he played the character Dominus.
Anthony Ray Parker - Bacchus & Mephistopheles
Bacchus and Mephistopheles were two wild and wicked characters from "Xena: Warrior Princess" who always managed to stir up trouble wherever they went. Bacchus was known for his love of wine and revelry, while Mephistopheles was a mischievous demon who loved to cause chaos. Anthony Ray Parker played both characters with great energy and enthusiasm, bringing a unique blend of humor and danger to each role.
Before "Xena," Parker had an extensive career in film and television, including roles in "The Matrix," "The Frighteners," and "Hercules: The Legendary Journeys." He was the perfect choice to play these larger-than-life characters, and his performances always left audiences entertained and wanting more.
Anthony Ray Parker - Now
Despite his reputation as having played Dozer in "The Matrix" and his credentials in "Xena: Warrior Princess," Anthony Ray Parker just hasn’t been able to catch a break in TV or film since then. His reputation in New Zealand has stayed relatively steady, but that’s about it.
Parker’s most recent TV appearance came in the hit HBO series "Euphoria," albeit in a one-off role. Outside of acting, Parker has had two sons and a daughter, and he owned a café in New Zealand by the name of Club Physical. Elsewhere, Parker has advertised for RealStew, a browser app, and he has also been an advocate for suicide prevention.
Gina Torres - Cleopatra
Cleopatra is the ultimate queen in "Xena: Warrior Princess," played by the fabulous Gina Torres. She's the boss lady of Egypt and a total force to be reckoned with. Cleopatra is smart, sassy, and stylish, always rocking the latest Egyptian-inspired fashion trends. Before landing her role as Cleopatra, Gina Torres had already established herself in Hollywood.
She had appeared in a bunch of cool TV shows, including the popular crime procedural "Law & Order," "M.A.N.T.I.S.," "One Life to Live," and "The Gregory Hines Show," to name a few. But her fortunes took a turn for the best after her appearances in the Hercules TV universe.
Gina Torres - Now
Gina Torres is certainly one of the most successful actors to come out of "Xena: Warrior Princess." After the show ended, Gina continued to slay in the entertainment industry, with roles in shows like "Suits" and "Hannibal." She's also lent her voice to a bunch of animated projects, including the awesome "Star Wars Rebels" and "The Legend of Vox Machina."
In recent times, Torres has had main roles on noteworthy shows such as "Pearson" and "9-1-1: Lone Star." She has also appeared briefly on shows such as "Riverdale" and "Angie Tribeca." In 2020, she was a Grand Marshal of the 2020 Rose Parade.
Rose McIver - Daphne
Daphne is a sweetheart in "Xena: Warrior Princess," brought to life by the talented Rose McIver. She's the kind of girl you want as your BFF — brave, loyal, and always there to lend a hand (or a sword) when you need it. Before landing her role as Daphne, Rose McIver was already making waves in the entertainment industry.
She'd appeared in a bunch of cool shows and movies, including the series "Shortland Street," "City Life," and "Riding High." She was already a well-known face for Hercules fans, appearing in many of the original TV movies, as well as "Hercules: The Legendary Journeys."
Rose McIver - Now
After "Xena" ended, Rose continued to slay on the small and big screens, with roles in shows like "Masters of Sex" and "iZombie." She also had a role in cheesy Netflix movies such as "A Christmas Prince" and "A Christmas Prince: The Royal Baby."
In recent times, McIver has played the main role in the short-lived comedy "Woke," as well as playing Samantha “Sam” Arondekar in the popular sitcom "Ghosts." In her personal life, McIver has worked as an ambassador for Emirates Airlines and has a deep passion for writing, citing inspiration from the likes of Kafka and John Steinbeck.
Michelle Ang - Akemi
Akemi is a total badass in "Xena: Warrior Princess," played to perfection by the talented Michelle Ang. She is an ideal team member — tough, independent, and not afraid to get her hands dirty. Before landing her role as Akemi, Michelle had already made the rounds in the entertainment industry, appearing in all sorts of cool stuff.
She first appeared in the TV show "Young Entertainers" and was also a lead in the show "The Tribe." Lee was a total Aussie icon thanks to her work on the drama series "Neighbours," which she worked on around the same time as "Xena."
Michelle Ang - Now
After "Xena," Michelle continued to kick butt on screen, with roles in shows like "Fear the Walking Dead" and "Top of the Lake." She's also worked on some indie projects that have gotten rave reviews, like the film "Fallout." Basically, Michelle Ang is a force to be reckoned with.
And quite literally, since she recently voiced the first-ever female clone of Jango Fett. Her name is Omega, and she’s a great character in the animated series "Star Wars: The Bad Batch." When she is not acting, Ang is alternating between New Zealand and America and spending time with her son.
Selma Blair - Cyane
Cyane is one tough cookie in "Xena: Warrior Princess," and Selma Blair does a fantastic job bringing her to life. She's the kind of leader you want in your corner — strong, independent, and always ready for a fight.
Before she took on the role of Cyane, Selma had already made her mark in Hollywood with roles in movies like "Scream 2" and "Cruel Intentions." Blair also appeared in movies such as "Legally Blonde" and "Hellboy" during the years following her time on "Xena." She was known for her ability to play complex characters and bring a depth of emotion to every role.
Selma Blair - Now
After "Xena: Warrior Princess," Selma continued to work in the industry, appearing in a range of movies and TV shows. She even had a hilarious cameo in the movie "A Dirty Shame," which is worth checking out if you're a fan of John Waters-style filth.
She starred alongside Charlie Sheen, of all people, in the sitcom "Anger Management" and even portrayed Kris Jenner in "The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story." Selma is also passionate when it comes to raising mental health awareness. She also opened up about her own experience with multiple sclerosis. She recently competed in the hit reality competition "Dancing With the Stars."
Tony Todd - Cecrops
Cecrops is one of the more memorable characters in "Xena: Warrior Princess," with his distinctive goat-like appearance and rough demeanor. He's not the friendliest guy around, but he does help Xena and her crew on a few occasions. Tony Todd, the actor who played Cecrops, is a well-recognized face who has shown up in many TV shows and films over the years.
Before he played Cecrops, he was best known for his roles in horror films like "Night of the Living Dead" and "Candyman." Despite his intimidating appearance, Tony Todd is actually a pretty nice guy in real life and has a great sense of humor. He even once joked that he could never do a romantic comedy because he's too scary-looking!
Tony Todd - Now
What you’ll notice about Tony Todd is that he has been consistently working since his appearance on "Xena: Warrior Princess." Whether it be on the big or small screen, Todd just isn’t interested in taking breaks. In more recent times, the seasoned actor has shown up in a lot of B movies.
He's also lent his voice to many animated shows, such as "Dota: Dragon’s Blood" and the animated series "The Flash." He even played Venom in the video game "Spider-Man 2." Diehard fans would have been giddy when they saw Todd make a nostalgic cameo as the iconic Daniel Robitaille, better known as the Candyman in the revival movie of the same name.
Meg Foster - Hera
Hera is one sassy goddess in "Xena: Warrior Princess," and Meg Foster brings her to life with style and flair. She's not one to be messed with, and her piercing blue eyes will give you chills! Before becoming the fearsome Hera, Meg Foster had already made her mark in Hollywood and TV.
In the decades leading up to her time on Xena, Foster appeared in shows such as "Bonanza," "Mod Squad," "Hawaii Five-O," "The Twilight Zone," "Murder, She Wrote," "Miami Vice," and many more. Meg Foster was known for her striking features and her ability to play strong, independent characters.
Meg Foster - Now
It’s safe to say that Meg Foster has continued to work in the industry at a pretty steady pace, popping up in movies like "Jeepers Creepers 3" and TV shows like "Star Trek: Discovery." She has also appeared in popular shows such as "Pretty Little Liars" and "Twin Peaks."
Her most recent movie roles have come in B-flicks such as "Hellblazer," and "There’s No Such Thing as Vampires." Foster had been previously married to fellow actor Stephen McHattie, with whom she had a son by the name of Christopher. Outside of the acting world, Meg Foster is a passionate animal lover and has used her platform to advocate for animal rights.
Robert Trebor - Salmoneus
Salmoneus is the charismatic merchant and conman of "Xena: Warrior Princess," with a heart of gold and a talent for making a quick dinar. He's always on the lookout for his next business venture and has a knack for finding himself in trouble. But even when things get tough, he never loses his sense of humor or his loyalty to his friends.
Robert Trebor brought Salmoneus to life with his impeccable comedic timing and larger-than-life personality. Before joining the cast of "Xena," Trebor had an extensive career in theater and television, but it's his portrayal of Salmoneus that fans will always remember him for. His performances always brought a smile to viewers' faces, and his character's shenanigans were the perfect counterpoint to the show's more serious moments.
Robert Trebor - Now
We’re not going to lie; Robert Trebor hasn’t been the most prolific actor since his sporadic appearances on "Xena: Warrior Princess." The character actor did have some guest appearances in movies such as "The Devil’s Rejects" and "Raise Your Voice." His most recent role came in the Coen brothers-directed "Hail, Caesar!," in which he played the producer of the fictional movie.
Trebor’s main success has come elsewhere, including on the stage, starring in the one-man show “The Return of Brother Theodore.” Trebor also wrote a critically acclaimed novella called "The Haircut Who Would Be King." There is no denying that Trebor has many strings to his bow.
Paul Norell - Multiple Characters
Another actor who is known for having shown up on "Xena: Warrior Princess" many times in different roles is the wickedly talented character actor Paul Norell. Throughout his time on the show, he appeared as the characters Gillis, Falafel, Peddler, Statius, and a Random Street Vendor too.
But truth be told, Norell was probably better known for his time on "Hercules: The Legendary Journeys" simply due to the fact that he showed up in more episodes on that show than he did on "Xena." Prior to this, Norell had a role in the 1990 movie "An Angel at My Table."
Paul Norell - Now
It would be fair to say that Paul Norell hasn't exactly set the acting world on fire since his time playing multiple characters on both the "Hercules" and "Xena" shows came to an end at the turn of the millennium. With that said, he did have a pretty significant role in the final installment of "The Lord of the Rings" film franchise — "The Return of the King."
He played none other than the King of the Dead, who helped the people of Middle Earth defeat Sauron's army in the climactic battle. Norell has also appeared in shows such as "Shortland Street" and "The Amazing Extraordinary Friends" over the years.
Paris Jefferson - Athena
Athena in "Xena: Warrior Princess" is the ultimate boss lady. She's the goddess of wisdom, warfare, and craftsmanship — talk about a triple threat! She's got the brains, brawn, and beauty to back it up. Paris Jefferson's portrayal of Athena is spot-on. She perfectly captures the goddess's sharp mind and strategic thinking.
And let's not forget that commanding voice — it's enough to make anyone tremble. Even though Athena and Xena don't always see eye to eye, Paris Jefferson epitomized what a goddess could be like through her awesome performance. Before she took on the role of Athena, she graced our TV screens in popular shows like "The Bill" and "Strauss Dynasty."
Paris Jefferson - Now
Paris Jefferson's disappearance from the small screen after her brief time on "Xena" came to an end can be explained by the fact that she starred in numerous leading roles in theater, including the Spoleto Festival in the US and The Cate Theatre in Dublin, Ireland. Since then, though, Paris Jefferson has had a small resurgence on TV.
She most notably had some runs on shows such as "Departure" and "Y: The Last Man." The Australian actress has worked all over the world, in countries such as the US, France, Ireland, and Canada, amongst others. In 2018, won Best Actress in a Leading Role at the BIFF Awards for her role in "Sunset Contract."
Kevin Sorbo - Hercules
Hercules, son of Zeus and the strongest man in the world (well, in the Xena universe at least), was the protagonist of his own show before crossing over to "Xena: Warrior Princess." Kevin Sorbo, who played the demigod hero, had a pretty diverse career before stepping into the sandals of Hercules. He worked as a model, did some commercials, and appeared on shows such as "Murder, She Wrote," and "The Commish."
But it was his portrayal of Hercules that truly catapulted him to fame, making him a household name and earning him legions of fans worldwide. With his rippling muscles and rugged good looks, Sorbo perfectly embodied the ideal of a noble warrior who stands up for justice and fights for the underdog.
Kevin Sorbo - Now
While it’s well-established that Kevin Sorbo also starred in the sci-fi series "Andromeda" after his time, Hercules came to an end; it’s not exactly breaking news. In more recent times, the talented actor has shown up on shows such as "Key & Peele," "Supergirl," and "Don’t Trust the B----- in Apartment 23." Sorbo has also done a few voice roles in video games, most notably in the "Skylanders" franchise.
It’s worth noting, though, that Sorbo’s career has been somewhat stop-start over the last couple of decades due to the long-lasting effects of the aneurysm he experienced on the set of "Hercules." Outside of acting, Sorbo is very charitable and is a spokesman for the non-profit A World Fit for Kids!
Michael Hurst - Iolaus
Iolaus is a loyal friend and companion of Hercules in the series "Xena: Warrior Princess." He is a skilled fighter and a humorous character who often lightens the mood in tense situations. As a young boy, he dreamed of becoming a hero like Hercules and eventually got his wish. He is played by New Zealand actor Michael Hurst, who is also known for his directing and writing work on the show.
Before "Xena," Hurst had already established himself as a successful actor in New Zealand and Australia, with roles in various TV series and films. In "Xena," his character Iolaus became a fan favorite, leading to his appearance in multiple episodes and even a spin-off series, "Young Hercules."
Michael Hurst - Now
While he hasn’t exactly set the acting world alight since showing up as Iolaus in the "Hercules" franchise, that isn’t to say that Michael Hurst hasn’t kept himself busy. With a couple of successful voice roles under his belt, including in the animated series "Power Rangers: Ninja Storm," Hurst is certainly a versatile performer.
He has also directed episodes on many TV shows, including "Ash vs Evil Dead," "Westside," "800 Words," and "Step Dave," to name a few. In 2018, the Variety Artists Club of New Zealand presented Hurst with a Scroll of Honor for his contribution to entertainment in New Zealand.
Kevin Smith - Ares
Ares is the Greek God of War and a recurring character in "Xena: Warrior Princess," portrayed by Kevin Smith. Ares is often portrayed as a seductive and cunning deity who tries to manipulate Xena and others to do his bidding. However, he also has a soft spot for Xena and often helps her out of trouble.
Kevin Smith played Ares throughout the entire run of the series, and his portrayal of the character was praised for its depth and complexity. Before playing Ares, Kevin Smith was a well-known actor in his home country of New Zealand, having appeared in a number of popular television shows and films. He had also worked as a radio host and had a successful career as a stand-up comedian.
Kevin Smith - After Xena
We are including Kevin Smith on this list because casual fans might not be aware of the following: the talented actor who appeared in an episode of "Xena: Warrior Princess" as Ares sadly passed away in 2002. He was filming a martial arts flick called "Warrior of Virtue 2" in China when he tragically fell off a prop tower and succumbed to his injuries.
Before his untimely passing, Smith had appeared in a handful of New Zealand shows and was no stranger to the theater scene. He was survived by his wife, Suzanne, and their three sons, Oscar, Tyrone, and Willard.