The Xena: Warrior Princess reboot at NBC is dead in the water.

First announced back in December 2015, with Emmy-winning producer Javier Grillo-Marxuach (Lost) writing the pilot, and Xena co-creators Rob Tapert and Sam Raimi overseeing the project, the reboot (which would have cast a new actress in the role) was set up as a modern reimagining of the iconic series, Hunger Games-style.

One of Grillo-Marxuach’s main interests for the show revival was to openly explore the relationship between Xena (played by Lucy Lawless in the original series) and Gabrielle (Renée O’Connor). Something the 1995-2001 syndicated series never really did.

Following Javier Grillo-Marxuach’s departure from the network a few months back (which was in April) over creative differences, NBC Entertainment president Jennifer Salke just announced that the reboot, in its current shape and form, is no longer moving forward at the network. Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter, Salke said:

“Nothing is happening on that right now. We looked at some material; we decided at that point that it didn't warrant the reboot. I'd never say never on that one because it's such a beloved title, but the current incarnation of it is dead.”

Even though NBC isn’t going ahead with Javier Grillo-Marxuach’s vision, Salke says it doesn't mean they are closing the door on rebooting Xena down the line, add,ing “I need someone to come in with a point of view about what they want to do.” Considering pretty much every fan-favorite franchise gets a second look these days, you'd have to think it's only a matter of time before this one gets back on the radar.

For what it's worth, Lawless seems to be game to return if they want her — so how about a straight-up revival series?

What do you think of NBC axing the planned modern revival of Xena: Warrior Princess?

(via THR)