So yes, the roles are getting more and more like me. But that's because Xena was so entirely unlike me. Most people aren't really aware of that.

They either overcompensate for the way they feel and are incredibly sycophantic or incredibly brusque in order to prove they don't think you're superior.

The role was very physically challenging and I am not athletic and have never wanted to be. I hate it in fact. I don't go to gyms and for me to have to stay in shape for the role became mind over matter.

I'm gonna walk off wearing the outfit and I'm going to drive home in it.

What's Buffy got? A wooden stake, some garlic. Xena has a full arsenal of weapons.

When you decide to become an opera singer, it's a commitment that allows nothing else to interfere. Even your family - and I have a young daughter - has to take second place.

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.

They're also surprised I'm only 6 feet tall. They expect someone much bigger. They say I'm younger and prettier in person, which I like.

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.