Lucy Lawless needs no introduction. The name alone conjures images of leather armour, a chakram, and a battle cry that defined 90s television. But two decades on from her era-defining role as Xena, Warrior Princess, Lawless is commanding a new arena: the director's chair.
In an exclusive and refreshingly candid interview, Lawless discusses her journey from in front of the camera to behind it, revealing a drive and vision that rivals that of her most famous character. She is currently in post-production for her feature directorial debut, The Longest Sunday—a poignant family drama set in her native New Zealand.
More Than a Warrior: Embracing a New Creative Chapter
For Lawless, directing wasn't a sudden whim but a natural evolution. "I've been creeping towards the director's monitor for 30 years," she confesses, her voice still brimming with the same energy fans remember. She describes the role as a perfect synthesis of her skills: leadership, storytelling, and a deep understanding of an actor's process.
The Longest Sunday is a passion project, a world away from the epic battles of Xena. It’s a testament to her desire to tell grounded, human stories. "It's about the small betrayals and the great loyalties of family," she explains, highlighting a shift from mythic heroism to intimate, emotional conflict.
Confronting Hollywood's Double Standards
Never one to shy away from the truth, Lawless speaks openly about the challenges facing women in the industry. She addresses the pervasive ageism and sexism with her trademark wit and defiance.
"Men are allowed to be philosophers and kings on screen, while women are too often relegated to the role of the mother or the crone," she states. Her mission? To champion complex, authentic roles for women of all ages, both through her own performances and now through her work as a director.
A Legacy Beyond the Chakram
While she embraces her future as a filmmaker, Lawless reflects on the enduring legacy of Xena with genuine gratitude. She acknowledges the character's profound impact on LGBTQ+ representation, something she is incredibly proud of, even if it was ahead of its time for network television.
She may have traded her armour for a director's viewfinder, but the spirit of the warrior remains. Lucy Lawless is still fighting—but now her battles are for creative control, authentic storytelling, and a more inclusive industry, proving her true strength lies not in a weapon, but in her unwavering voice and vision.
