In the mid-1990s Xena: Warrior Princess introduced a sword and sandals series that defied traditional genres and would inspire many female heroes to follow. The show follows Xena (Lucy Lawless), an infamous warrior who is trying to make up for the terrible things she did in the past by helping people that can’t protect themselves. She is joined by Gabrielle (Renee O’Connor) who begins as a farm girl, but grows to become a warrior in her own right. Xena’s sharper edges and Gabrielle’s moral compass balance each other and the pair become devoted companions.

The show was created by John Schulian and Robert Tapert, and debuted 30 years ago on September 4, 1995. It set the stage for a historical fantasy that is based primarily on Greek history and mythology, but also borrowed from Medieval Europe, Indian, Egyptian, and Chinese traditions. Xena and Gabrielle interacted with fictional characters like Homer and had a hand in participating in historical events like the fall of Troy.

Xena was an action-adventure/fantasy show in which Xena fought her way through many foes and out of many no-win scenarios. The situations made for serious moments, but the show also employed slapstick humor and comedic gags that kept it from settling into a particular genre. While the setting and situations were far in the past, the show dealt with modern themes like redemption, interpersonal connections, and equality.

Xena: Warrior Princess became a cult hit, loved for its genre defying style, its strong female hero, and the relationship between Xena and Gabrielle. It was a spinoff of Hercules: The Legendary Journeys, but overtook the flagship series in the ratings. The show has inspired fan conventions, comic books, novels, and video games. Lawless and O’Connor continue to do fan appearances and conventions around the world.