The Marvel Comics character that actress Lucy Lawless, ("Xena: Warrior Princess", "Spartacus: War Of The Damned") will play in Season 2 of ABC's "Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D." has now been revealed:
Lawless will play espionage agent 'Contessa Allegra de Fontaine', originally created by writer, illustrator Jim Steranko, debuting in Marvel's first "Nick Fury, Agent of S.H.I.E.L.D." feature in "Strange Tales" #159 (Aug 1967).
Originally a member of the rich European elite and citizen of Italy, the Contessa was contacted by 'S.H.I.E.L.D.', to enter a training program to become an agent, following the death of her parents.
The Contessa first encountered S.H.I.E.L.D. executive director, Nick Fury, aboard S.H.I.E.L.D.'s airborne headquarters, the 'Helicarrier', towards the end of her training, impressing Fury by tossing him head-over-heels with a judo throw after he said a sexist remark about female agents.
The two eventually became lovers, with their relationship continuing for many years.
As a result of the Contessa's remarkable talents and skills in many areas, she quickly became a leading member of S.H.I.E.L.D. She was also at one point appointed as the leader of S.H.I.E.L.D.'s 'Femme Force'.
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