>
> I went straight to the best source I could think of -- MaryD of
> AUSPIX -- http://ausxip.com/
>
> The question and answer --
>
> Mary Hi,
>
> There are a few of us still posting to the alt.tv.xena newsgroup
> and the question has come up about who was originally slated to play Xena.
> I always heard it was Roma Downy, but she got sick or had
> another commitment and backed out.
> Someone disagreed and said it was Vanessa Angel (whom I have
> never heard of).
>
> So I decided to go to someone I KNEW would know -- you.
> A definitive answer would be great!
>
> Thanks,
> David
> .............................................
>
> Hi David,
>
> Yes Roma was offered the role and turned it down and went on to star in
> 'Touched By An Angel.' Vanessa was also offered the role and turned it
> down. Vanessa Angel was on a series called 'Weird Science.'
>
> MaryD
>
> ............................
>
> So it appears they were both offered the role. But from Mary's
> answer, it seems like Roma was asked first, then Vanessa. And Lucy was a
> third choice.
> Sometimes first (or second) isn't always best !! : - D
>
> David
>