Kate Austen is a fictional character from the television series Lost, which aired from 2004 to 2010. She is portrayed by actress Evangeline Lilly. Kate is known for her complex backstory, which includes a troubled past involving crime and relationships. Throughout the series, she is depicted as a resourceful and strong-willed survivor on a mysterious island. In the show, Kate often finds herself torn between her feelings for two other main characters, Jack Shephard and James "Sawyer" Ford. Her character evolves as she confronts her past and navigates the challenges of survival, making her one of the central figures in the ensemble cast.