Lawless, star of the hit syndicated series "Xena: Warrior Princess," filmed a 30-second public service announcement that aired during the broadcast of the third season premiere of "Xena." In the PSA, Lawless says:

"On 'Xena,' our battles are make believe and no one gets hurt. At the end>of the day, we take off our costumes and we go home. In real life, domestic violence injures and kills. But you can get help -- and you don't need Xena's superhuman powers. You have a weapon that she doesn't -- the telephone. If you or someone you know needs help, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline, 1-800-799-SAFE. Your call will be answered day or night, in English or Spanish. Xena would want you to call. So do I."

"We appreciate Lucy's generosity in donating her time and talents to help us publicize the Hotline number and services," said Fisher. "Lucy is an incredibly strong role model who inspires women to take positive actions in their lives. We felt that she could deliver our message in a way that would increase public awareness of the Hotline."

"As a celebrity, I've been asked to support many causes," Lawless said. "I feel that my role as Xena can be most effectively used to empower people to take charge of their lives. People need to know that they have choices and that the Hotline is there for them."

"The Hotline is here to help callers plan for their safety and that of their children," said Fisher. "If they need to talk about a violent relationship or their growing fear of a partner, I urge them to call the Hotline or their local domestic violence program. People who care are standing by to answer the phones." The Hotline also assists callers who are family members or friends with concerns about a loved one. The Hotline may be reached by calling 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or, for the deaf, 1-800-787-3224 (TTY).

Since the opening of the Hotline on Feb. 21, 1996, staff and volunteers have answered 141,760 calls (through Sept. 25, 1997). The staff and volunteers who answer the phones are trained to provide crisis intervention, information and referrals to local programs. The Hotline has the largest database of local domestic violence programs in the nation.

The National Domestic Violence Hotline was established under the Violence Against Women Act and is funded by governmental, foundation, corporate and individual support.

Sharon

Back to the Lucy Lawless Library

Back to the Xena Picture Library