The 7 Essential Lucy Lawless TV Shows: From Xena’s Warrior Cry To Her 2024 Crime Drama Return

Lucy Lawless has redefined the modern television icon, transitioning effortlessly from the ancient battlegrounds of fantasy epics to the gritty realism of contemporary crime dramas. As of December 15, 2025, her career is experiencing a vibrant resurgence, proving the New Zealand actress remains one of the most versatile and in-demand stars in the industry. Her enduring legacy is built on powerful, complex characters who command attention, whether wielding a chakram or a detective’s notebook.

The latest and most exciting update for fans is the confirmed return of her hit series, My Life Is Murder, which premiered its fifth season in June 2024 on Acorn TV and BBC. This role as the sharp-witted, not-so-retired detective Alexa Crowe showcases a new, grounded dimension to her acting prowess. Furthermore, a massive surprise for her dedicated fanbase is the news that she will be reprising her iconic Roman role in the upcoming sequel series, Spartacus: House of Ashur, a testament to her enduring impact across multiple genres.

Lucy Lawless: Full Biography and Profile

• Full Name: Lucille Frances Lawless (née Ryan) MNZM
• Date of Birth: 29 March 1968
• Birthplace: Mt Albert, Auckland, New Zealand
• Profession: Actress, Producer, Director, Singer, Activist
• Known For: Xena in Xena: Warrior Princess, D'Anna Biers in Battlestar Galactica, Lucretia in Spartacus, and Alexa Crowe in My Life Is Murder.
• Career Start: Began her career in New Zealand television and theatre in the late 1980s.
• Current Status: Starring in My Life Is Murder (Season 5, 2024) and confirmed for the sequel series Spartacus: House of Ashur.

The Warrior, The Senator’s Wife, and The Cylon: Lawless’s Defining Genre Roles

Lucy Lawless’s television career is a masterclass in genre hopping, but she is perhaps most revered for her work in science fiction, fantasy, and historical drama. These roles often require a high degree of physical commitment and a nuanced performance to balance strength with vulnerability, a combination Lawless has perfected.

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1. Xena: Warrior Princess (1995–2001)

No discussion of Lucy Lawless is complete without acknowledging her career-defining role as Xena. Originating as a three-episode antagonist on Hercules: The Legendary Journeys, the character of Xena quickly became a cultural phenomenon, leading to her own spin-off series. The show, produced by Sam Raimi and Rob Tapert, ran for six seasons and cemented Lawless as an international superstar and a feminist icon. The series explored themes of redemption, complex female relationships (notably with her companion Gabrielle), and mythology, making it a cornerstone of 90s television. The impact of the series is so profound that rumors and fan concepts for a *Xena* reimagining continue to circulate, though Lawless’s focus has shifted to new projects.

2. Spartacus (2010–2013) and Spartacus: House of Ashur (Upcoming)

Following the conclusion of Xena, Lawless took on one of her most complex and terrifying roles: Lucretia, the manipulative and ambitious wife of Batiatus, the owner of the gladiator school. Her performance in Spartacus: Blood and Sand and its subsequent seasons was lauded for its intensity, showcasing the dark, seductive, and ruthless side of Roman high society. Lawless herself has called Lucretia one of the "scariest and best roles" she has ever done.

In a major development, Starz announced that Lawless would return as Lucretia in the new sequel series, Spartacus: House of Ashur. This return is set to explore an alternate timeline, demonstrating the enduring power of her character and the show's universe. This news, confirmed in late 2024, has generated immense excitement among fans of the historical epic.

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3. Battlestar Galactica (2005–2009)

Transitioning into the world of hard science fiction, Lawless joined the critically acclaimed reboot of Battlestar Galactica as D'Anna Biers, one of the elusive Number Three Humanoid Cylons. Initially appearing as a Colonial reporter doing an exposé on the fleet, her character was later revealed to be a key Cylon model. This role showcased her ability to embody a quiet, unsettling menace, a stark contrast to the overt heroism of Xena. Her 10-episode arc was crucial to the series' mythology, especially in exploring the religious and existential questions central to the show.

From Comedy to Horror: Lawless’s Versatility in Modern Television

Lawless has consistently sought out roles that challenge audience expectations, proving she is far more than just a genre star. Her work in comedy and horror-comedy demonstrates a remarkable range, adding depth to her filmography.

4. My Life Is Murder (2019–Present)

The most current chapter of Lawless’s career is the Australian/New Zealand crime drama My Life Is Murder, where she stars as the main character, Alexa Crowe. The series, which has become a cozy crime favorite, sees Alexa using her sharp instincts as a former police detective to solve complex murders in contemporary Melbourne and Auckland. The show’s return for Season 5 in June 2024 highlights its popularity and Lawless’s successful pivot to a modern, less physically demanding but equally engaging role.

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5. Parks and Recreation (2012–2014)

In a delightful and unexpected turn, Lawless took on the recurring role of Diane Lewis-Swanson, the eventual wife of the stoic and libertarian Ron Swanson, in the beloved NBC sitcom Parks and and Recreation. Diane, a no-nonsense single mother, was one of the few characters capable of matching Ron’s intensity while also bringing out his softer side. Her performance demonstrated a perfect comedic timing and a grounded realism that anchored one of the show’s most important romantic storylines.

6. Ash vs Evil Dead (2015–2018)

Lawless returned to the horror-comedy genre, reuniting with producers Sam Raimi and Rob Tapert, in the Starz series Ash vs Evil Dead. She played Ruby Knowby, a mysterious and ruthless figure who is later revealed to be the daughter of Professor Raymond Knowby and a powerful villainess. Her character's arc was a thrilling, bloody, and often hilarious addition to the *Evil Dead* universe, showcasing her willingness to dive into over-the-top, action-packed roles.

7. Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. (2014) and The X-Files (2001)

To round out her incredible run of television appearances, Lawless made notable guest appearances in other major fan-favorite series. She appeared as Agent Isabelle Hartley in the second season of Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., a formidable and experienced S.H.I.E.L.D. agent. Earlier in her career, right after Xena concluded, she had a two-episode stint on the iconic sci-fi series The X-Files. These roles, though brief, underscored her status as a go-to actress for bringing gravitas and star power to established franchises.

From the enduring mythos of Xena to the present-day mysteries of Alexa Crowe, Lucy Lawless’s television filmography is a rich tapestry of unforgettable characters. Her recent career choices, including the highly anticipated return of My Life Is Murder Season 5 in 2024 and the surprising news of her *Spartacus* reprisal, confirm that her reign as a television powerhouse is far from over. Fans worldwide eagerly await the next chapter in the career of this versatile and iconic New Zealand actress.