I never thought I'd be an action star, but now they're going to make little Xena action figures for kids. I still want to be a fine actress one day; … - Lucy Lawless

Growing up, I looked up to real women. I didn't go in for hero worship and I still don't. Everybody has feet of clay.

Up until I came here this week, and I met so many women and young girls who feel, to use their word - and I'm a bit embarrassed, but it's a good word - empowered, by watching. I realized this isn't a burden, this is an honor.

At first, being a female role model really terrified me. But it hasn't turned out to be an awful burden. I get a lot of letters from women who tell me that, after watching Xena, they have bought the Harley-Davidson they always wanted or left an abusive relationship.