Lawless to Join 'X-Files' This Fall

By Stephen M. Silverman

Monday July 30, 2001 04:48 PM EDT

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Former "Xena: Warrior Princess" star Lucy Lawless, whose popular syndicated action series ended only recently, will next be seen on Fox TV's "The X-Files," reports Variety. The New Zealand-born actress, 33, has signed on for a multi-episode appearance, starting with the series' first two episodes this fall. The season premiere is Nov. 4. There is also the possibility that she will appear in additional episodes, though that decision has yet to be made, says the trade paper. Her character's name and function has not been announced, but said "X-Files" executive producer Frank Spotnitz, "We think we've found an interesting and unexpected way to have her join the family." Meanwhile, over on NBC's "ER," executive producer John Wells has confirmed to Variety that, as expected, the Emmy nominated actor Eriq La Salle (surgeon Dr. Peter Benton) will turn in his hospital scrubs at the end of next season. La Salle, 39, who has been with the show since its 1994 premiere, has been hinting that he might leave when his three-year, $27 million contract expires next May. He is said to be interested in directing and producing.