Marise Wipani, Star of Xena: Warrior Princess, Dies at 61 on Her Birthday
Beloved actress Marise Wipani has passed away at the age of 61. She died on her birthday, surrounded by friends and family. The news was shared on her personal Facebook page, where her loved ones left a heartfelt message.
“Marise passed peacefully today on her 61st birthday surrounded by family and friends,” the message read.
In a bittersweet touch, it included a quote from Marise herself, filled with her signature humor:
“She just wanted to say… I have shuffled off this mortal coil. Good byyye, good luuuck, good God! ! ! Quote from Driving Miss Daisy.”
The cause of her death hasn’t been made public.
Tributes from those who knew and loved her
The announcement sparked an emotional wave of tributes from her co-stars, friends, and fans. Jay Laga’aia, who worked alongside Marise on the British drama Soldier, Soldier, wrote a touching goodbye.
“You are so young and I will miss you,” he said. “We have worked together over the years and I was always so pleased to have you on set. Travel well my sister, love you always.”
Veteran director Ian Mune, who cast Marise in the 1985 film Came a Hot Friday, shared his own memories. “Your presence and performance added a whole layer to that movie arising from your truth and honesty. It was what always struck me whenever we met. Fly high, Princess.”
Others described her as a “rock star” and a woman of warmth and humor. One friend posted, “Devastated to hear this. She was always such a rock star and incredibly funny. We lost a beautiful woman today.”
Another wrote, “Heart broken but you’ll never be forgotten sis… I will miss you and cherish your memory. Thank you for our final conversation last night, for giving me some of your precious final moments. Moe moe ra xoxox.”
From beauty queen to household name
Marise’s journey to fame began unexpectedly. She was spotted by a Miss New Zealand pageant producer who urged her to enter. She gave it a shot, and it opened doors.
In the early 80s, she landed roles on the Billy T. James Show. But her big break came in 1985 when she played Esmerelda in Ian Mune’s Came a Hot Friday. Audiences loved her presence.
By the late 80s, Marise became a familiar face across New Zealand as the Lotto Lady. She hosted the national Lotto draw from 1987 to 1991, winning hearts with her charm and smile. Her live broadcasts with co-host Doug Harvey became a regular part of many Kiwi households.
Lighting up the screen in New Zealand and beyond
After Lotto, Marise focused fully on acting. In 1988, she played Suzie in the Aussie crime film Grievous Bodily Harm. In 1993, she joined the popular British show Soldier, Soldier, further cementing her place in the industry.
During the mid-90s, she appeared in both Hercules in the Maze of the Minotaur and Hercules: The Legendary Journeys. These roles made her a known face among international fantasy fans. Then in 2001, she landed the part of Kanae in Xena: Warrior Princess—one of the roles she’s best remembered for.
Her other credits include Bonjour Timothy (1995), Channelling Baby (1999), and Jubilee (2000). She also appeared in the 2007 TV series Rude Awakenings and played Rebecca Short in Shortland Street in 2008, which turned out to be her last acting credit.
A quiet final chapter, but never forgotten
In the years that followed, Marise took a step back from acting. She worked in production behind the scenes and also helped run a local café. Despite stepping away from the spotlight, her impact on those around her never faded.
Her laughter, kindness, and unforgettable talent touched many lives. She may have lived her final years more quietly, but the legacy she left behind will keep her memory alive.
Rest in peace, Marise Wipani.
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