Back when "Once Upon a Time" debuted in 2011, Regina Mills was villainous as villains could get. After four seasons of character growth, it seems that Regina will finally be stepping up as a hero. Viewers will see Regina's heroic transformation unfold when the show returns for its fifth season this Sunday, Sept. 27.

"Regina is going to be the hero. It's really her journey of exploring that. It's an immense amount of responsibility. We'll see her evolving into this role and we'll see where she ends up," star, Lana Parilla, revealed.

However, it seems that the transformation was not the former Evil Queen's idea. Rather, Regina feels indebted to Emma, who sacrificed herself in order to give Regina her happy ending. "If you know Regina, nothing pisses her off more than owing someone," executive producer, Edward Kitsis, said.

Regina will try to help Emma, whom she's gotten close to over the years. According to Parilla, Regina is worried that Emma might not return to her true self after succumbing to the darkness. She's also worried about how these events will affect her son, Henry.

Having faced darkness before, Regina is in a good position to help Emma. She knows and understands whatever Emma is going through right now. Whether or not Emma will be willing to accept her help will be revealed in the first half of the season.

Regina will also have to convince the residents of Storybrooke that she has truly changed her ways. She will take on a leadership position and help save the town from imminent attacks. However, "a lot of people are still frightened of her," Kitsis added.

Thankfully, Regina can rely on Robin Hood for support. Despite having a complicated situation with half-sister Zelena, Regina and Robin remain steadfast in their love for each other. "There's no confusion in my head playing him, he loves Regina and only Regina," Sean Maguire, who plays Robin, said.

Season five of "Once Upon a Time" returns on Sunday, Sept. 27, at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.