"Happy 30th anniversary to the hit television show, 'Xena: Warrior Princess'"
In Burbank, California, Lucy Lawless and Robert Tapert, executive producers of the iconic television series "Xena: Warrior Princess," attended the Xenacon convention for charity. The event, held three decades after the show's debut, was a celebration of the show's enduring legacy.
During the convention, Lawless shared her thoughts on the show's impact on fans. Many have expressed gratitude for the influence "Xena: Warrior Princess" has had on their lives. The show, a spin-off of "Hercules: The Legendary Journeys," was not originally intended to focus on the relationship between Xena and Gabrielle. Instead, it was an adventure show designed to evoke emotion, with the character's redemption arc being a central theme.
However, the relationship between the two characters became a significant aspect of the show. Initially, the creators did not intentionally explore this relationship, but the audience read into it, and the themes were gradually introduced. This organic development led to the water transfer scene between Xena and Gabrielle, a moment that became a milestone in "Xena" history.
The show also pushed boundaries racially and sexually, a factor that contributed to its controversial nature. The relationship between Xena and Gabrielle was a point of pride in some spaces, yet it was also a subject of controversy. Despite this, the show's impact was undeniable.
Lawless, who played the titular role, was surprised by the show's success. She expressed her honour at being part of a show that has done so much good for people. She acknowledged that the show gave people courage, helped them embrace their imperfections, and allowed them to live fabulous lives.
Tapert, Lawless' husband and co-executive producer, also expressed his gratitude to the fans for tuning in to the show. The interview, conducted by Jasmine Martínez for NPR on a rush deadline, ended with a soundbite of Joseph Loduca's "Main Title" theme from "Xena: Warrior Princess."
The authoritative record of NPR's programming is the audio record, and the interview transcript, provided by NPR, may be updated or revised in the future. Recently, Lawless and Tapert were present in New Zealand at an event celebrating the 30th anniversary of the series "Xena: Warrior Princess."
Thirty years ago today, "Xena: Warrior Princess" began airing on syndicated television, marking the start of a journey that has left an indelible mark on pop culture. The show continues to inspire and resonate with audiences, a testament to its timeless appeal.
