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Newsletter 06 (1998)
This interview is property of the DXF (German Xena Fan Club). Copying this in any way without written permission is prohibited. All rights are (c) by the DXF 1998.
Exclusive Interview with Reneé O'Connor (Gabrielle)
When you were chosen to play Gabrielle, did you foresee how popular it would make you and what an impact the show would have on popular culture?
No, not at all. It's still a bit amazing for me to see how popular the show has gotten. The show's concept was so unique, and there had never been a show about a woman hero quite on the same level as Xena, that no one really expected the show to create such a large and diverse following.
How much did you as an actress influence Gabrielle's development from an annoying sidekick to the full-fledged partner of Xena she is today? Did you know from the very start that you wanted to make more out of your role?
I think I always hoped that the character of Gabrielle would be something more than just comic relief, or the annoying companion offsetting Xena's persona. But everyone knew that it was a character development that had to be believable and evolving. Even though I was maybe pushing a little harder and faster than the writers wanted to go, I think they were right to keep the pace toward Gabrielle's maturity more deliberate.
In what direction would you like to see Gabrielle develop? Even closer ties with Xena or emotionally more independent? Would you like her to become more of a fighter or more of a philosopher?
Because of Xena's strength, Gabrielle has been given the gift of self-confidence and independence. She is now an opinionated, strong-willed young woman with definite ideals. I believe that Gabrielle should become a philosopher, but she has a long road ahead of her in order to reach enlightenment.
Can you talk the writers into things you'd like to play? Would you ever say "No" to a storyline or a scene that you thought was not in tune with Gabrielle's character?
I instinctually want to protect Gabrielle and to keep her righteous. However, this is not in Gabrielle's best interest, because she grows in maturity through the errors of her judgement. I never say "no" to the challenges the writers present to Gabrielle.
Do you and Lucy ever discuss storylines or in what way to approach certain scenes?
Not often, but yes when it's a scene that one or both of us are not sure about the best way to do it.
While playing a scene are you in any way influenced by possible internet (or otherwise) discussions or fan reactions it might provoke?
Yes and no. Everyone associated with the show is both aware and sensitive to certain "fan perceptions", and while it is sometimes a subconscious awareness, I try not to let it influence me too much. I enjoy being able to play this character based on my personal instincts about Gabrielle, without having to stop and think, or gage how that may or may not be critically received by the fans.
Will Xena and Gabrielle ever truly understand each other? Or is it important for the dynamic of their relationship that there will always be a little mystery left?
Xena and Gab's relationship will remain dynamic as each character continues to evolve and to seek her "own peace of mind." They will never completely understand each other.
Xena and Gabrielle's relationship is, of course, one of the great friendships in television history (if not the greatest...). Do you see yourself as a pioneer in that field, since there haven't really been any (credible) female friendships on television before?
No, not a pioneer really - and I have to somewhat disagree that Xena and Gabrielle represent the only credible female friendship that TV has ever offered. It is definitely one of the more unique though, because while we represent totally fictional characters in a historic time period - we have created a very strong friendship based on some very real moral and ethical situations that are applicable to modern times and women in the 90's.
Do you consider the so-called subtext an integral part of X:WP or is it just an accidental by-product which is a result of your and Lucy's incredible on-screen chemistry?
It's funny because the subtext was actually unintentional when the show first started. But ever since about the latter part of the first season, it is certainly a recognized aspect of the show that the staff acknowledges, and sometimes plays to - including Lucy and myself.
Have you ever thought about a possible scenario for the end of Xena:Warrior Princess? How would you like to all end?
I haven't really thought about it much. I'm having too much fun trying figure out what Gabrielle's going to do next. But it would be great if Gabrielle and Joxer got married, and uhhh...just kidding. I guess we'll have to wait and see what they have planned for us. I've learned not to try and guess what Rob Tapert's imagination will come up with.
How do you see your future after Xena:Warrior Princess?
I'd like to do some different roles, maybe try my hand at directing some small productions. It's hard to say, I really enjoy acting, and Xena has been such a great learning and growing experience for me as an actress. This role/job will be a hard act to follow, so to speak.
Finally a question you've probably answered at least a thousand times (I have to ask it anyway): What is it like to work with Lucy Lawless? What kind of woman is she?
Lucy is an intellect with heart. She is one of the most generous people I have known in my lifetime, and it is a delight to work beside her.
Reneé
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