Science Fiction (and Fantasy) on Television

External Links

Official Hercules and Xena Site

Once upon a time, there was a son of an Earth woman, fathered by the great God Zeus. And his name was Hercules. And he spoke in the modern idiom, thus making him very popular amongst the television viewers.

Well you would, wouldn't you?

Yes, it is probably down to Hercules that we got a whole series of mythical characters who talk like we do and occasionally make those anachronistic comments that appear to fuel their popularity. Biggest spawn of the Hercules series is Xena: Warrior Princess (although Lucy Lawless who is Xena actually appeared as another warrior first in the Hercules series). Now let's be fair - Xena turned out to be a little bit better of a series in the end. Of course Hercules also appeared in the Xena series.

Hercules himself is played by Kevin Sorbo who really made the character, as apart from hi impressive physique, it is really Kevin's personality that shines through this ancient legend and it is his acting ability that presents us with more than just a big guy with a sword. Latterly Kevin has of course gone on to Captain the Andromeda. Hercules also made Kevin Sorbo, who prior to this had made no great impression.

The beginning of the Hercules series is where his stepmother, the Goddess Hera, zaps his wife and children, who disappear in a puff of smoke. Hercules is a teeny bit upset about his family getting fried so turns his back on good, but of course it isn't long before he is convinced to follow a righteous path to honour his family and not blame Zeus for everything bad. So off he goes to save everyone from bad people and things.

The Hercules series itself was preceded the year before (1994) by a series of TV movies. The first of these, 'Hercules and the Amazon Women' introduces the famous partnership of Hercules and Iolaus and the type of heroism they represent. Anthony Quinn played Zeus, and Lysia, one of the main Amazonian warriors controlled by Hera, is none other than Lucy Lawless - showing the potential that led to Xena.

Accompanying Hercules on his journeys and worthy of separate mention is Iolaus (Michael Hurst). Heroes always need a good sidekick!

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