Evelyn Renee O'Connor is an American actress , producer and director best known for playing the role of Gabrielle on the TV series Xena : Warrior Princess .
Reneé O'Connor ( born Evelyn Reneé O'Connor on February 15 , 1971 in Katy , Texas ) is an American actress , producer and director best known for playing the role of Gabrielle on the TV series Xena : Warrior Princess from 1995 to 2001 .