Xena began as a spinoff character from the television series Hercules: The Legendary Journeys, but she quickly outstripped her predecessor in popularity and has since become a feminist icon for her unapologetic heroism. Played by Lucy Lawless, Xena has been credited as paving the way for a new generation of female action heroes such as Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Max of Dark Angel, and Sydney Bristow of Alias. By opening doors for female action heroes on television, Xena also strengthened the stuntwoman profession.
Watch Xena: Warrior Princess free at the NBC website.