Hatch on Galactica-Rumor??

[koenigrules]

I found this to be of interest in the NEWS section of galactica2003 today:

Richard Hatch In Talks About Returning To Battlestar Galactica - Battlestar Galactica 2003 has received confirmation from Hollywood North Report that Richard Hatch may return to Battlestar Galactica. According to Hollywood North Report, both Hatch and Moore have advanced discussions for Richard to appear in the series. Later this week, Hollywood North Report will be presenting interviews from both Hatch and Moore in regards to this subject.

The role Richard Hatch will be playing if he returns is a brand new role in the new upcoming Sci Fi Channel Series Battlestar Galactica. This character of course is not Hatch's familiar role as Captain Apollo. Instead it will be a recurring role in the series with the new character appearing in the third episode of the upcoming Battlestar Galactica TV series.

Originally this story was treated as rumor with the initial source being The Cylon Alliance. Since then, the story has been confirmed. Battlestar Galactica 2003 does hope for a successful negotiation to occur between Hatch and Moore. We hope that this will be role that will be as memorable as his original role as Captain Apollo in 1978. Battlestar Galactica 2003 is hoping that other classic Battlestar Galactica cast members like Dirk Benedict, Anne Lockhart, Terry Carter, Jane Seymour, and Herb Jefferson, Jr., etc. will follow Richard Hatch's lead and play recurring roles in the new Battlestar Galactica TV Series.


Treat this as rumor for the moment, guys, but if it is true- WOW!
KR

[gmd3d]

It would be great to see Hatch on the screen again and there is still room for both shows one on in the small screen and the other in the movies with the orginal crew were it belongs :thumbsup:
thanks for the update koenigrules

[Gemini1999]

I think that I may be unique in my reaction to this story - It seems that Ron Moore is determined to mine TOS for various elements to give the new series a broader appeal to a wider audience. I can understand why Richard and Dirk turned down the initial "cameo" parts, but if Ron Moore wants to offer Richard a recurring role that has enough meat in the part for Richard to be seriously considering it - I say, "Why not?"

I know that Richard is being faced with a lot of criticism for even considering such a role, but he is an actor and such visibility this late in his career would be anything but bad. He's done a lot for BSG fandom over the years, he's gone into debt more than once - most recently to provide a 25 year reunion that was very far into the "red" after it ended.

There are sometimes where I feel like we - as a group of fans should have tried to help him out in such times. We can attempt to raise 10,000 dollars to place some ads, but what about doing the same thing to help with the large debt that he was saddled with?

I do not feel that I have the right to begrudge someone to make a living at what they do does - If Richard wants to take the part and he feels that it would be a good career move for him, then where would I think that I have the power of "script approval" for what he does.

Richard is trying to get a new series idea of his own launched - and it is being done on a shoestring and on the favors of those that really support him. If he needs more money, where do you think it comes from? Do you think that doing all the cons and showing those promos is really going to cover those kind of expenses? Think about it...

For those that say that Richard is "turning his back" to BSG fandom - I say he is doing what it takes to get the job done. If you turn your back to him because of it, it won't really matter - he'll still do the job and get paid for it, regardless of what anyone says.

Well, I think that I've gone on long enough....

Respectfully,
Bryan
________
Bdsm Asian (http://www.****tube.com/categories/229/asian/videos/1)

[gmd3d]

well said Gemini1999 as you said he is an Actor and has to earn a living and I don't think he will be turning his back on BSG but could well be helping the movie
to come to the big screen. wetting are appetites so to speak. there is room for both visions and if we want to see the big screen version there has to be room for both because if there is no room...we are sunk. :cry: :cry: sorry to go on and on.
No Commander Apollo, No Starbuck (with important bits included).No Boomer looking out for Starbuck. :cry: :cry:
This is to much have to go.

:salute:

[GalacticanCajun]

I hope it is a recurring role, one that covers several episodes.

[Eric Paddon]

I personally am sorry to hear of this rumor. I think after what Moore has done and did, to trash the legacy of what the original series actors did in bringing their parts to life, it would have been far better for them to have steered clear of this altogether.

I am one of those who firmly believes that the Moore series succeeding dooms any remote hope there is of there being a movie revival and that the best hope for a movie revival can only happen by demonstrating that the audience is not there for a "reimagined" Galactica and that Moore did the wrong approach to the material.

[ernie90125]

Dear Eric,

I totally, totally agree with you. Totally. I have long had the concern that with the mini on course that their won't be another Galactica....

Can anyone else think of another example of a re-imagined and continuation running side be side ?

I also have concern for new fans, that if they don't know about Galactica at all and they try to find out they could be very confused trying to sort through :

The original series.
Galactica 1980, which most people disregard.
The Second Coming which sadly didn't come.
The re-imagined series, which some people like, and others don't.
The continuation movie, which has nothing to do with the mini, even though they could both find themselves being on the same channel, having the same character/ship names....and then some of the same actors ?????

I too believe that Richard Hatch has every right to make his own decisions about his parts, his careers etc. But personally in his shoes, I would decline such a role....

It's a tricky one....!

Ernie90125

[CommanderTaggart]

Ernie90125 wrote:


Can anyone else think of another example of a re-imagined and continuation running side be side ?

Octopussy

Never Say Never Again

[braxiss]

I think that I may be unique in my reaction to this story - It seems that Ron Moore is determined to mine TOS for various elements to give the new series a broader appeal to a wider audience. I can understand why Richard and Dirk turned down the initial "cameo" parts, but if Ron Moore wants to offer Richard a recurring role that has enough meat in the part for Richard to be seriously considering it - I say, "Why not?"

I know that Richard is being faced with a lot of criticism for even considering such a role, but he is an actor and such visibility this late in his career would be anything but bad. He's done a lot for BSG fandom over the years, he's gone into debt more than once - most recently to provide a 25 year reunion that was very far into the "red" after it ended.

There are sometimes where I feel like we - as a group of fans should have tried to help him out in such times. We can attempt to raise 10,000 dollars to place some ads, but what about doing the same thing to help with the large debt that he was saddled with?

I do not feel that I have the right to begrudge someone to make a living at what they do does - If Richard wants to take the part and he feels that it would be a good career move for him, then where would I think that I have the power of "script approval" for what he does.

Richard is trying to get a new series idea of his own launched - and it is being done on a shoestring and on the favors of those that really support him. If he needs more money, where do you think it comes from? Do you think that doing all the cons and showing those promos is really going to cover those kind of expenses? Think about it...

For those that say that Richard is "turning his back" to BSG fandom - I say he is doing what it takes to get the job done. If you turn your back to him because of it, it won't really matter - he'll still do the job and get paid for it, regardless of what anyone says.

Well, I think that I've gone on long enough....

Respectfully,
Bryan






very well said.
i do not like the new show and will not watch it, but if mr. hatch wants to do it and the role is well written more power to him and good luck.
mr. hatch has supported fandom and like it or not we need to support him.

[ernie90125]

Dear Commander Taggart,

Please can you tell us more about these examples, as I am not familiar with them ?

Any lessons to be learned from them that could help BSG ?

Ernie90125

[Micheleh]

This sounds like aanother Hinman piece. I admire that guy, in a way... he should run for office. He can take two maybe's and a might, a dash of I heard and a tiny truth, and spin them into a plausible sounding construction. That takes creativity. ;)

Yes, Richard had a meeting with Moore, there's your fact. The rest is indeed rumor at this point.

Like I said st CA, personally speaking, if he is in a role, all it could do is let the uninformed audience know that something else did come before, and it's up to us to educate them, and let them know that if they want somehting good, promote a continuation movie. I think it could be a good move.

[gmd3d]

ernie90125 wrote
Can anyone else think of another example of a re-imagined and continuation running side be side ?

No.. but I am hoping they can if not we are sunk, then all we will have is the re-imagined show,,it ok and in it early days there no telling were it will end up.
there are things I liked :) and a lot of thing that i hated. :mad:

If Richard Hatch does end up on the MINI as a simi-regular I will watch him.
but I would prefare to see him as Apollo again and to hold back from the mini

what I would like to know is what CommanderTaggart thinks seeing that he is working hard to get the Movie made and all the people that has made donations
and is quater of the way to the target needed. over $2000 now .
I am still going to donate for the movie with the hope that it will be made with Mr Hatch and crew.
If Hatch decides to act in the MINI could that prompt mr larson to forget a continuation and go instead for a Total movie remake with new actors.

can't we just see the character he's playing and not seening Apollo just someone the looks remarkably like Apollo or am i starting to go mad.

[ernie90125]

Potemkin,

You raise good points. If I remember righty, despite having paid a lot of money to buy back the rights for a BSG movie, Larson was going to wait until he saw the reaction to the mini...

The reaction was (ratings wise) good if I read the reports correctly. But if actors from the original start being part of the mini, then it might send signals to Lasron that that's the direction they are headed, not the direction of the big screen....

No-one knows (micheleh possibly might) what is going through Richard's head. He has made so many good decisions for BSG, I shall respect any decision he makes for his career.... But I can't help but think a return to the big screen would be far better for a career than a on/off role in a series ????

As I said before.....It's a tricky one !!!!!

[gmd3d]

But I can't help but think a return to the big screen would be far better for a career than a on/off role in a series ????

I see what you mean it's a tough one alright :wtf:

[Eric Paddon]

If it's just another one of those silly rumors that if I recall also at one point had Anne Lockhart listed on a cast sheet for the Moore series, then that makes me feel a lot better at this point.

Nonetheless, seeing *any* Galactica cast member consent to doing any kind of substantive role would IMO totally send the wrong signal and indicate that they have decided there is no chance of a real continuation taking part, and thus this becomes their only opportunity left to be associated with something called Galactica.

And I really have to wonder if on one level, Moore knows that getting original cast members to take part in his project ultimately puts a stamp of credibility on his reimagning that will never exist in the minds of many Galactica fans like myself and thus undercuts the argument for having them take part in a true continuation.

[Micheleh]

Nonetheless, seeing *any* Galactica cast member consent to doing any kind of substantive role would IMO totally send the wrong signal and indicate that they have decided there is no chance of a real continuation taking part, and thus this becomes their only opportunity left to be associated with something called Galactica.

And I really have to wonder if on one level, Moore knows that getting original cast members to take part in his project ultimately puts a stamp of credibility on his reimagning that will never exist in the minds of many Galactica fans like myself and thus undercuts the argument for having them take part in a true continuation.

It's interesting that you should say that... it makes me realise that in a way, many OS fans have been taking potential situations and automatically choosing to put the worst, most negative possible spin on them. Yes, that is one interpretation, but it sounds like a worst case scenario. I think it would be better to focus on what the best case could be that brings the most positive outcome, and try to make that happen.

[koenigrules]

Well- interviews are going to be posted on HNR this week so before I say there's no base,
I would like to see those interviews.
I am sure more details will be disclosed than simply "yeah, I'm interested."
But I'll keep checking HollywoodNorthReport.
KR

[Muffit]

Seeing the actors we love play outside the characters they played which we love, cannot help but well up mixed feelings within each of us. I agree with all of you, this is a very hard thing.

I would understand and support Richard if he did take an ongoing role - he is a human being and must support himself and those he loves just like each of us. And Martok's beautiful continuation story and Mr. Moore's kind and unexpected contribution to CFF have melted my heart a bit.

I must admit, and hope each of you can understand, although I would understand any TOS actor accepting a worthy role in the mini, I know that inside I could not bring myself to watch, much as I want to see my favorite actors again. There is so much pain in that, which I cannot explain to you my friends just now. But I will never lift my hand to write opposition to such a move; there is, most assuredly, a chance it might very well bring a TOS continuation closer to the camera's once shuttered lens.

Hope is nothing if it does not come from a willing heart.

Affectionately,
Muffit
:muffit:

[CommanderTaggart]

Ernie90125 wrote:

Dear Commander Taggart,

Please can you tell us more about these examples, as I am not familiar with them ?

Octopussy and Never Say Never Again were competing James Bond films that came out at the same time in the mid-80's. The former starred Roger Moore, and and was the "officially sanctioned" James Bond film, the latter starred Sean Connery, reprising the role he had originated, but without being able to use the iconic James Bond theme music or other hallmarks of the film franchise (btw, Kim Bassinger was the Bond Girl in Never, and she was hot as a pistol). I don't remember exactly what rights loophole the producers of Never were able to jump through in order to use the James Bond character and name.

Both films did well, and shared audiences... and fans agreed that it was great to see Connery back in the role again.

It's not an exact parallel to the BSG situation, but it's the closest that I can recall.

Potemkin72000 wrote:

what I would like to know is what CommanderTaggart thinks seeing that he is working hard to get the Movie made and all the people that has made donations
and is quater of the way to the target needed. over $2000 now .

At this point I think we all need to calm down and stop speculating. What we've heard is that there have been talks between Richard and RDM about a possible role on an ep of the Skiffy Show, that the role could be recurring, and those talks have reportedly been confirmed by several sources, including The Hollywood North Report.

We have not heard that Richard has accepted any such role, or that he's even planning to.

Before we condemn, celebrate, or otherwise judge Richard in any way shape or form in connection with this business, I think we should wait and hear from Richard, himself. Wait to hear from Richard as to whether there has been an offer, whether he's accepted or rejected that offer, and what his reasons might be either way.

We've had far too many knee-jerk reactions in this fanbase. I know, because I've supplied many of them, myself. But before we go off half-cocked again with half-information... let's just wait to hear from Richard. He is, after all, a man of the fans... no one can dispute that... and he will let us know not only what's going on, but his thinking behind it, as well.

I'll have more to say when we're dealing with hard facts vs. idle speculation, but even if Richard has been offered a role, and even if he accepts it, there are be ways in which we will be able to make that work to the advantage of the CFF campaign, and the the overall movie effort.

[amberstar]

Seeing the actors we love play outside the characters they played which we love, cannot help but well up mixed feelings within each of us. I agree with all of you, this is a very hard thing.

I would understand and support Richard if he did take an ongoing role - he is a human being and must support himself and those he loves just like each of us. And Martok's beautiful continuation story and Mr. Moore's kind and unexpected contribution to CFF have melted my heart a bit.

I must admit, and hope each of you can understand, although I would understand any TOS actor accepting a worthy role in the mini, I know that inside I could not bring myself to watch, much as I want to see my favorite actors again. There is so much pain in that, which I cannot explain to you my friends just now. But I will never lift my hand to write opposition to such a move; there is, most assuredly, a chance it might very well bring a TOS continuation closer to the camera's once shuttered lens.

Hope is nothing if it does not come from a willing heart.

Affectionately,
Muffit
:muffit:

Well said muffit, once again you echo my Thoughts. :)

Amber

[Eric Paddon]

It's interesting that you should say that... it makes me realise that in a way, many OS fans have been taking potential situations and automatically choosing to put the worst, most negative possible spin on them.

That's probably true and I can only speak for myself, but it seems like the tendency to assume the worst spin on things stems from the weight of so many years of bad news and false hopes and expectations getting dashed, going all the way back to when we got the rude shock that "Galactica 1980" wasn't a simple continuation of the series, and going on through the years with the 15 Yahren Con debacle to the last minute collapse of the DeSanto project etc. I would like to see something truly positive happen from the perspective of an original series fan that's substantive because I've already raised my hopes too optimistically one too many times in the past.

[Eric Paddon]

I don't remember exactly what rights loophole the producers of Never were able to jump through in order to use the James Bond character and name.

The loophole was that Never Say Never Again was a remake of "Thunderball" and the original story rights to Thunderball were owned separate from Broccoli and company by NSNA's executive producer Kevin McClory. In the mid-60s he cut a deal to get "Thunderball" made as an official Bond film with the stipulation that a decade later he would have the rights to make a new version again, and that was the loophole.

[Sept17th]

but he is an actor and such visibility this late in his career would be anything but bad. He's done a lot for BSG fandom over the years, he's gone into debt more than once - most recently to provide a 25 year reunion that was very far into the "red" after it ended.

There are sometimes where I feel like we - as a group of fans should have tried to help him out in such times. We can attempt to raise 10,000 dollars to place some ads

Fine. I'll ask what has Richard's agent been doing for him? This would be stunt casting and if true pisses me off.

This doesn’t change what CFF is doing. The ad BTW if successful would help spawn a movie that would put millions of $$$ in Richard's pocket. I would hope this role would help the cause in some way I’m just not smart enough to see yet.

[SeoulWind]

I'm not thrilled about this idea... I agree that it could send a confusing (especially to new or potential new TOS fans who are unfamiliar with his past role) message and that it could ultimately harm a continuation, especially if there were any nasty little clauses in the contract that would prevent Richard from working on "competing" projects. I'm certain he's smart enough to catch something like that in the small print but...

Mark Snyder
Seoul, Korea

[warhammerdriver]

One possibility that I haven't seen on this thread (maybe I missed it) is that Mr. Hatch needs to pay some bills. I've read reports that he has gone into debt repeatedly to fund BSG projects, and now creditors may be looking for some of their money. This might be a quick way for him to pay off some debt.

I could also be waaaaay off on this. Whaddya expect, I'm a mechanic, not a Hollywood insider!

[gmd3d]

CommanderTaggart wrote

I'll have more to say when we're dealing with hard facts vs. idle speculation, but even if Richard has been offered a role, and even if he accepts it, there are be ways in which we will be able to make that work to the advantage of the CFF campaign, and the the overall movie effort.


I agree Commander we must wait and see what happens, but if Richard takes a part in the Mini it won't make any differance to me I will still go to see the movie
and I will still donate to the effort by the CFF.
:salute:

[kitty]

CommanderTaggart wrote




I agree Commander we must wait and see what happens, but if Richard takes a part in the Mini it won't make any differance to me I will still go to see the movie
and I will still donate to the effort by the CFF.
:salute:

I think that if Richard takes the role, it will undoubtably be very weird seeing him in the mini, without the role of Apollo.
It will probably make for some uncomfortable viewing for all us bsg fans.

[koenigrules]

I have a bit more on the HNR interviews which will be posted later this week:

The link is:
http://www.mediablvd.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=12906&sid=a26c7ed1cfd81cbcaff404897956d5b1

And the text is from the HNR source:

Hi everyone!

Rumors have a way of spreading over the internet faster than SARS spreads through the air!

So let me just add a caveat to my earlier post. Both the HNR upcoming interviews with Richard Hatch and Ron Moore are about much more than Richard's appearance in the new Galactica. And let me emphasize clearly that neither interview discusses what the role is going to be. Obviously, they're not going to give that away.

What these interviews do prove, however, is that a role for Richard is being created as I write this...that Richard and Ron Moore are discussing it right now...and that Richard plans to do it if it is dramatically interesting, which it almost certainly will be. The significant thing to keep in mind here is that you'll finally be hearing this straight from the proverbial horses' mouths.

Look for the interviews - along with an exhaustive history of the Galactica franchise to date - to appear on the Hollywood North Report website this Thursday or Friday.

KR

[bsg1fan1975]

Seeing the actors we love play outside the characters they played which we love, cannot help but well up mixed feelings within each of us. I agree with all of you, this is a very hard thing.

I would understand and support Richard if he did take an ongoing role - he is a human being and must support himself and those he loves just like each of us. And Martok's beautiful continuation story and Mr. Moore's kind and unexpected contribution to CFF have melted my heart a bit.

I must admit, and hope each of you can understand, although I would understand any TOS actor accepting a worthy role in the mini, I know that inside I could not bring myself to watch, much as I want to see my favorite actors again. There is so much pain in that, which I cannot explain to you my friends just now. But I will never lift my hand to write opposition to such a move; there is, most assuredly, a chance it might very well bring a TOS continuation closer to the camera's once shuttered lens.

Hope is nothing if it does not come from a willing heart.

Affectionately,
Muffit
:muffit:


I am with you on this one 100 % . In my opinion, I hope this is just going to be another rumor.

[dec5]

Bravo Mr Hatch!!! I think it is great to have him on board......Although I would have him play a Earthling US Air Force General ,ala Stargate's Hammond who meets the Galactiaca crew.

[CommanderTaggart]

Potemkin72000 wrote:

I agree Commander we must wait and see what happens, but if Richard takes a part in the Mini it won't make any differance to me I will still go to see the movie
and I will still donate to the effort by the CFF.

Thanks, Potemkin!

[kingfish]

Isn't G2003.net the source of this info? I believe I made a similar post last night and now it is gone. :confused:

[Soulmage]

I think this move on Richard's part reinforces the fact (IMO) that like it or not the new series IS the galactica franchise now.

However, based on comments from Ron, I'm thinking that although Saga and the mini were separated quite widely in tone and execution, the two series themselves might not be quite as far apart as they might appear to be based on the pilots of both.

Ron has said that while the show will be a drama, it will be much lighter in tone usually than the pilot which was by necessity very very dark.

Just think if the whole casino planet hadn't been in Saga, and instead they'd focused on the struggle for survival and challenges that they faced after the destruction of the colonies. You'd have a very dark story there as well.

[jewels]

Potemkin,

You raise good points. If I remember righty, despite having paid a lot of money to buy back the rights for a BSG movie, Larson was going to wait until he saw the reaction to the mini...

The reaction was (ratings wise) good if I read the reports correctly. But if actors from the original start being part of the mini, then it might send signals to Lasron that that's the direction they are headed, not the direction of the big screen....

No-one knows (micheleh possibly might) what is going through Richard's head. He has made so many good decisions for BSG, I shall respect any decision he makes for his career.... But I can't help but think a return to the big screen would be far better for a career than a on/off role in a series ????

As I said before.....It's a tricky one !!!!!

One little squish of thoughts in this:
1. Reaction to the mini was "good" by the standards of SciFi. Larson hates the mini similar to the Cylons hatred of humnanity. Well, more similar to if someone beats up your kid on the playground but you get the idea. He already joked about remaking the remake at Galacticon. I think he's just holding for (see #2) another person to be available. It would be the ultimate justice to make a film that grosses $100-$200 million with the TOS cast involved, original story continuing...etc. when Scifi's series garners only 1-2 million viewers. Don't ever forget that someone would've trusted an untested producer, Richard, with $80 million to make a BSG movie had the rights not been such a mess. Someone believed in the TOS more concretely than any of us could, I suspect they could still be tapped for resources for a movie. That's just my gut. That and Larson and Dirk cutting up over the changes to (her name is not) Starbuck.

2. You've got Tom DeSanto somewhere on the wings, as big a fan of TOS as Hatch is, plus Larson likes him and/or his clout. Clout alone can make something happen in Hollywood and Tom has a lot of workable ideas for a continuation. Don't ever count him out, only delayed, IMO. Which my opinion, of course is not worth much..... Oh, heck, he's a FAN. He could make yet another of his favorite shows fly again. You think they're going to stop him?

3. The only person involved that thinks they actually "remade" Galactica, is Bonnie Hammer. Everyone else knows it's really a new show with a borrowed name. However, one can use that to one's advantage to go many future directions.

4. If any of the TOS actors do roles on Moore's series: they will garner interviews for the new show's PR. That will in turn give them the chance to say positive stuff about TOS and raise audience awareness of the original. Awareness of the original starts people on the research path of website viewing, DVD viewing or purchase and generates new or renewed fans. It's a long circuitous route, but it can still be for the good. For our good.

5. If Richard is up for a part that isn't Apollo, that's OK: he's an actor playing a different role. Advantage is he has this history with an earlier show with the same name: that alone will get him some press and interviews and let him talk about the variety of ways the show might "have been ;)" revived. Get enough wheels spinning about those "might haves" and one never knows what may happen. Look at V or Firefly--especially Firefly. To go from a prematurely cancelled TV show to a modest budget big screen film, with a different studio backing it. How weird is that? For V: go from a mediocre show that followed a good miniseries, back to the original writer restart again so it's good again. Weird things happen in Hollywood.

No matter what happens the spinning of it all will be interesting to watch unfold. But the TOS movie idea isn't over. It's only begun and is waiting for the right time.

The rumor said 3rd show. Gee if they start the premeire MooreBG in late August, wouldn't that make for delicious timing, Taggart? :D

Jewels

[gmd3d]

jewels wrote
5. If Richard is up for a part that isn't Apollo, that's OK: he's an actor playing a different role. Advantage is he has this history with an earlier show with the same name: that alone will get him some press and interviews and let him talk about the variety of ways the show
my feelings exactly jewels I feel Apollo/sorry Richard Hatch taking a part in the Mini will bring awareness for the Movie. :salute:

[CommanderTaggart]

Jewels wrote:

August, wouldn't that make for delicious timing, Taggart?

Indeed it would, Jewels. Indeed it would.

[oldwardaggit]

I have to admit that I have mixed feelings about Richard Hatch accepting a role on the new BSG mini-series. This is only my second post – I previously posted an opinion on the mini-series as a casual fan. I will repeat what I said in my post back then, that I watched the mini with an open mind, and really wanted to like it, but it was just so bad, at least in my opinion. There’s a LOT of reasons for my having this opinion, but one thing that is different between these two series that really stands out to me is that in the original, I related to the characters right from the start. With the mini, I just don’t care for any of the characters. All of the reading on the site motivated me to go and buy the boxed DVD set, which I have watched over the past couple of months, and I have to say I’m not as casual as I once was. Seeing the old episodes reminded me about why I liked the show (despite it’s flaws) to begin with. It also made my distaste of the mini stronger, for several reasons, which I’ll not go into so as to stay on the subject.

The first thing I would say is that I think that Richard taking a role on the new series will be the beginning of the end of any project to bring back some form of the original. Now, admittedly, such a project would be bigger than any one man, but if this starts a trend among the other original actors, I think the mini will become the “official” return of BSG, and that’ll be the end of any continuation (which, to be honest, I don’t really have much hope for at this point anyway – I guess I’m just not as optimistic as some of you).

Second, if the series turns out to be as bad as the mini was, it’s going to die a pretty quick death, and, again, that’ll probably be the end of any chance to bring back the original - especially if actors from the original are involved with the new series.

Third, I would hate to see him come on board for a “recurring role” if it turns out to be nothing more than a spruced up cameo role, or worse, just as a gimmick to get the original fans to watch.

On the other hand, I think we have to all look at the other side of the coin. Suppose Ron Moore has some really good ideas cooked up, and the series turns out to be a lot better than the mini? This is, after all, possible – look at some of the early episodes of the Star Trek series – Deep Space Nine, for example. Some of them were so bad I will never watch them again (and wish I had missed them the first time), but look how well the series turned out. I will say up front I have little confidence that this series will be any good, based on what I saw and what Ron Moore has said, but stranger things have happened. If it does end up being a good show, think about how great it would be to see Richard on the screen again.

There are two other possibilities to consider. One is that Mr. Moore may have realized he underestimated the negative feelings he generated with the fans of the original, and this is way of extending an olive branch. If that turns out to be the case, we should be appreciative that, belated though it might be, it is a generous gesture on his part. The other is that he may have realized that there are more die-hard original series fans than he thought, and there are enough of them to mean the difference between success and failure from a numbers standpoint for a show on cable hoping to draw an audience of 4 million viewers (I believe this is the number I’ve seen tossed around).

I don’t pretend to know the answers to any of these questions. Ultimately, I think we all should desire that Richard come to a decision that is best for him. After all, he has bills to pay (like all of us), and we shouldn’t begrudge him taking a role on a show that we might not want him to do if it turns out that it’s what is best for him. I think we all have to trust that he’s enough of a show business veteran to be able to see whether a role is a good one or not, and act accordingly. I think most of us will be disappointed if he joins the show (at least, based on the script for the mini – as I said, the series may be better), but we should also want the best for him, and if the best for him means accepting a part on the new series, then we should all be happy for him.

[Antelope]

I am very interested to see where these "discussions" between Ron Moore and Richard Hatch will go. I for one am not surprised nor upset to hear Richard Hatch MAY take a role in the new series. Some things to consider:

Richard Hatch has more to gain or lose with the current series than any other TOS actor. I leave it to the reader to decide what motivates him but whether its personal finances or love of the show Richard Hatch has more invested and personal linked and risked to the franchise than anyone related to TOS. If the series tanks and destroys the franchise it would hurt Hatch's hopes for the franchise future and could also hurt his book sales, personal appearance and speaking opportunities. Any hope of a future role in a continuation may go down also.

Despite Richard Hatch's efforts it appears no one including Larson and Desanto have been willing to listen to him or give him a decent role. His role if any at best in the Desanto continuation would be only a cameo that barely keeps his character alive. Ron Moore is giving Richard Hatch more respect, deference, and opportunity than any of the people who are supposedly on "our team".

If Richard Hatch takes a role I can guarantee you three things:
1. It is in Richard Hatch's financial and personal interest.
2. He wouldn't take it if he thought it would diminish the franchise.
3. As a person who has the most at stake in the franchise he believes his role and how it fits into the Moore universe is what is best at this point in time for Battlestar Galactica.

I may not be Richard Hatch's best fan but I do believe what is best for Richard Hatch at this point in time is what is best for the franchise. Most likely he will do what is best for himself and for us which is to try and bring the spirit of TOS into the Moore universe.

Have hope we will get our Season 2 and the best remakes of season 1 after all. I wish Richard Hatch good luck in whatever he decides.

[jewels]

I am very interested to see where these "discussions" between Ron Moore and Richard Hatch will go. I for one am not surprised nor upset to hear Richard Hatch MAY take a role in the new series. Some things to consider:

Richard Hatch has more to gain or lose with the current series than any other TOS actor. I leave it to the reader to decide what motivates him but whether its personal finances or love of the show Richard Hatch has more invested and personal linked and risked to the franchise than anyone related to TOS. If the series tanks and destroys the franchise it would hurt Hatch's hopes for the franchise future and could also hurt his book sales, personal appearance and speaking opportunities. Any hope of a future role in a continuation may go down also. You've nicely encapsulated many of the risk's entailed here, Antelope.

Despite Richard Hatch's efforts it appears no one including Larson and Desanto have been willing to listen to him or give him a decent role. His role if any at best in the Desanto continuation would be only a cameo that barely keeps his character alive. Ron Moore is giving Richard Hatch more respect, deference, and opportunity than any of the people who are supposedly on "our team". Hatch's role was small in the pilot only of DeSanto's continuation. As I understood Tom's presentation: One of the story arc's discussed would have made that a recurring or regular role for at least a while once the pilot went to series.

If Richard Hatch takes a role I can guarantee you three things:
1. It is in Richard Hatch's financial and personal interest.
2. He wouldn't take it if he thought it would diminish the franchise.
3. As a person who has the most at stake in the franchise he believes his role and how it fits into the Moore universe is what is best at this point in time for Battlestar Galactica. Only one I will differ with is 3, I think he would take a role because it is well written, in hopes it would help Moore "raise the bar". I think he will always believe that the original story is the right thing for the franchise. Moore BG is just what the cards are dealing at the moment. It's not the same show and it's interesting to have someone try to write a part intended just for you.

[Antelope]

Only one I will differ with is 3, I think he would take a role because it is well written, in hopes it would help Moore "raise the bar". I think he will always believe that the original story is the right thing for the franchise. Moore BG is just what the cards are dealing at the moment. It's not the same show and it's interesting to have someone try to write a part intended just for you.

I agree with you 100%. I think Richard Hatch prefers to play Apollo 25 years after TOS in a version where Apollo is the Commander and one of, if not the main character of a Continuation. I think Richard Hatch sees that this is probably no longer a possibility and is playing the best game he can with the cards now being dealt.

It may not be what we think is best for the franchise if we can start with a clean slate but at this point in time it might just be the best Richard Hatch or we will get. :salute:

[jewels]

I agree with you 100%. I think Richard Hatch prefers to play Apollo 25 years after TOS in a version where Apollo is the Commander and one of, if not the main character of a Continuation. I think Richard Hatch sees that this is probably no longer a possibility and is playing the best game he can with the cards now being dealt.

It may not be what we think is best for the franchise if we can start with a clean slate but at this point in time it might just be the best Richard Hatch or we will get. :salute: At this point perhaps. But I still hold to a future hope. And they'll have to hit at least age 65 before I give that one up. ;)

[Phoenix]

Please excuse any ignorance here, but is BSG 2003 still on Sci Fi as reruns or anything? I've heard about it, seen things here and there on the net but never seen the actual show.

[kingfish]

At this point I wish that Michael Faries was still around to dispense with these feldercarbs. It seems that since he left this fandom has gone to "Hell and Back.

[ernie90125]

I think (or rather strongly hope) that a continuation will happen. Glen Larson paid out a fortune for the movie rights, so he must have the intention of doing something....

I also think that you would have to be blind not to see that the fandom has a great respect for Richard Hatch. I do think people know this, which is why of all the TOS actors, it is Richard who we hear as being first offered a role in the Mini series.....

If Glen Larson also recognises this, then he will know that he could anger the very fanbase that supports him so strongly if he does not include Richard in a continution....

I agree with so many of the points above, but this thread can only go so far until we have to stop and wait for further news.....

[BST]

I agree with so many of the points above, but this thread can only go so far until we have to stop and wait for further news.....

Very wise words, indeed.

There is, after all, only 1 person who knows EXACTLY what is or is not happening. The rest of us are just guessing.

:)

[Gemini1999]

In this matter, I would take Michelle's words as to what is "really" going on when it comes to things in Richard's world. She has said that there have been talks going on and that's all at this point. Even if someone has interviewed Richard and Ron, what's the point in making specuation as to the facts. There aren't any more facts to be had - even after the Hollywood North interview is posted, unless something changes between now and then, it is just talk.

I'm patient, I can wait it out....

Best,
Bryan
________
WENDIE 99 (http://www.lovelywendie99.com/)

[dec5]

I am very interested to see where these "discussions" between Ron Moore and Richard Hatch will go. I for one am not surprised nor upset to hear Richard Hatch MAY take a role in the new series. Some things to consider:

Richard Hatch has more to gain or lose with the current series than any other TOS actor. I leave it to the reader to decide what motivates him but whether its personal finances or love of the show Richard Hatch has more invested and personal linked and risked to the franchise than anyone related to TOS. If the series tanks and destroys the franchise it would hurt Hatch's hopes for the franchise future and could also hurt his book sales, personal appearance and speaking opportunities. Any hope of a future role in a continuation may go down also.

Despite Richard Hatch's efforts it appears no one including Larson and Desanto have been willing to listen to him or give him a decent role. His role if any at best in the Desanto continuation would be only a cameo that barely keeps his character alive. Ron Moore is giving Richard Hatch more respect, deference, and opportunity than any of the people who are supposedly on "our team".

If Richard Hatch takes a role I can guarantee you three things:
1. It is in Richard Hatch's financial and personal interest.
2. He wouldn't take it if he thought it would diminish the franchise.
3. As a person who has the most at stake in the franchise he believes his role and how it fits into the Moore universe is what is best at this point in time for Battlestar Galactica.

I may not be Richard Hatch's best fan but I do believe what is best for Richard Hatch at this point in time is what is best for the franchise. Most likely he will do what is best for himself and for us which is to try and bring the spirit of TOS into the Moore universe.

Have hope we will get our Season 2 and the best remakes of season 1 after all. I wish Richard Hatch good luck in whatever he decides.


That is the funning thing....Larson really never gave Hatch any real praise or thanks for at least stirring interrest in BG.....in fact he seemed to snub Richard a lot........ At least Moore offered Hatch the hand of friendship in spite of their difference of opinion. Moore at least in public, seems to respect Richard as person and a Icon of TOS.

[Eric Paddon]

I'm all for not speculating needlessly on what is and isn't a reality at this point. What I think is easier to debate at this point is what the ramifications would be *if* (and I concede it's a big if) this turned out to be true, if it came to pass, and if it started a trend with other TOS actors. And it's on that point alone that I can't accept the premise that to see this happen if it were to come to pass, would bode well for the future of a continuation.

To avoid any harsh rhetoric, I'll refrain from saying what I think is really at the heart of Ron Moore's motives in wanting to get Richard and other TOS actors to take part in his series. I think those who have always had a low opinion of Moore like me will never find it easy to think otherwise of him while those who have seen him differently will prefer to take the rosier spin on things.

[Mike Wright]

Can anyone else think of another example of a re-imagined and continuation running side be side ?
Ernie90125

The Brady Bunch. In the 90's they released the first movie, which was a re-imagining of the original in that the family was "stuck in the 60's" but living in the 90's. It had a completely new cast, and portrayed the family more in the 90's mindset, as in what we in the 90's thought they represented, not what they actually represented in the 60's. This brought enough interest for the network to make a television mini series using the original actors, based on the same family from the original series but 30 years later, living in the 90s. (Am I off by a decade? Where they the 70s?) That mini lead to an actual series, which ran for a year or so, then was cancelled due to bad ratings and the guy who played Mike Brady being diagnosed with AIDS. But while the series ran, they released the second movie based on the re-imagining... Proving that a re-imagining and a continuation can coexist quite nicely. :)

[larocque6689]

At this point I wish that Michael Faries was still around to dispense with these feldercarbs. It seems that since he left this fandom has gone to "Hell and Back.

Oh for frak's sake. Michael's a big boy. We did fine with him around and we're doing fine with him basically functioning as a Battlestar fan and in the background.

As for Robert of CF and MB - I've always thought he was a straight-up guy. If he says there's interviews with RDM and RH then I'm fairly sure they're going to be posted.

And as for Richard potentially appearing in the new production:
a) firstly he has bills to pay. This role will help
b) More importantly, this may potentially be good a good role for him

Speaking strictly as conjecture, I personally don't think this will be harmful to the continuation motion picture efforts either. The campaigns continue and we have $7000 to go.

[Titon]

Wow, leave for a while and all hell breaks loose. I for one am a big advocate of having some connection to the original cast in some way. BUT i have a hard time feeling that just because some of the original cast appears in the new Galactica that the TOS fans will accept it. Apollo was a special character. Having Richard Hatch play a different role in the new series will be just "odd". I for one would be thrilled for him if he was able to work in the Galactica universe again but also severly disappointed that he would not continue the role that is one of the most recognizeable in the "entire" Galactica realm, new or TOS.

My feeling is there's possibly something else going on here. The character of Apollo from the TOS might not be dead yet.

;)

[ernie90125]

My feeling is there's possibly something else going on here. The character of Apollo from the TOS might not be dead yet. ;)

Hi,

If I read what you are thinking correctly, and forgive me if I am not, then you think the TOS Apollo might make an appearance in the Mini ?

Some kinda time travel thing leads the future Apollo back to advise his past self ? If this is the was RDM is heading, and of course we have absolutely no idea, I'd like to point out that :

The two Apollos do not look like each other.

This is what Janeway did at the end of Voyager, so it has been done before....


Of course we have no way of knowing at his stage !!!!!

Ernie90125

[Sept17th]

Along with "planet of the week" Ron and company will not be doing time travel etc. Expect exciting "Take the Celestra" each week...I did like that episode BTW.

[jcl1973]

Hi,

I think that this could be a good signal. Moore should recognize that this guy gave him his job. It would be stupid not to have Hatch, maybe even co-producer. After all, he's like a BG encyclopedia, the best resource they have. I think maybe they're trying to widen the net to include people who've seen the old series and those that haven't.

Also, the MINI movie, some parts could just be ignored. Remember Highlander the TV series, and the Movies?

If anything, it is a step in the right direction. Maybe other scripts will be changed, and the bad stuff of the first pilot taken out. There's no reason why they have to stick to that script. I think that Hatch involvement is a good thing. He will have a voice in the show, of that, it's without question in my mind.

I don't demand 100% authenticity, because reality is that some actors gave up acting, some died, times have changed, audiences have changed also. Sci-fi has changed. We've seen a lot more SCI-FI shows now.

I just want the new series to be as compelling and fun to watch as the old ones were. It would be great if they used the old models, CG still looks like garbage on TV-pretty cool for 2D, but lacks 3D realism of film/models.

[shiningstar]

Hi,

I think that this could be a good signal. Moore should recognize that this guy gave him his job. It would be stupid not to have Hatch, maybe even co-producer. After all, he's like a BG encyclopedia, the best resource they have. I think maybe they're trying to widen the net to include people who've seen the old series and those that haven't.

Also, the MINI movie, some parts could just be ignored. Remember Highlander the TV series, and the Movies?

If anything, it is a step in the right direction. Maybe other scripts will be changed, and the bad stuff of the first pilot taken out. There's no reason why they have to stick to that script. I think that Hatch involvement is a good thing. He will have a voice in the show, of that, it's without question in my mind.

I don't demand 100% authenticity, because reality is that some actors gave up acting, some died, times have changed, audiences have changed also. Sci-fi has changed. We've seen a lot more SCI-FI shows now.

I just want the new series to be as compelling and fun to watch as the old ones were. It would be great if they used the old models, CG still looks like garbage on TV-pretty cool for 2D, but lacks 3D realism of film/models.

First of all welcome to the fleets.

Second of all .........it's doubtful that Hatch will do it. All you need to do
is to look at his articles on the mini to see what he thinks of it

[Darth Marley]

Given the role being in the 3rd eps, with production theoretically slated for 12APR04, the there are just a few weeks to get such a role cast. Sure they could shoot around that ep a bit, or juggle the rotation order of the eps, but this will be resolved very soon, and the truth will be out there.

[jewels]

Exactly, Darth: once more into the "wait & see" zone.

Anybody else hope Larson announces something soon?? :laugh: sorry had to blow some tension.

[bsg1fan1975]

I hope there is word from Larson soon. The waiting is killing me and I agree with Shiningstar. The only person who knows what Richard is going to do is him. The rest of us will just have to wait and see.

[shiningstar]

Given the role being in the 3rd eps, with production theoretically slated for 12APR04, the there are just a few weeks to get such a role cast. Sure they could shoot around that ep a bit, or juggle the rotation order of the eps, but this will be resolved very soon, and the truth will be out there.

Exactly Darth! :D

[bsg1fan1975]

I am not holding my breath!

[Antelope]

I've thought all along that you could get Richard Hatch in the show so long as its a real role and his character is not killed off.

Assumming Richard Hatch "breaks ranks" I expect it likely we may see Dirk Benedict also. He however will also need to get a real role. I wonder if either of the two are going to be the new "Commander Caine" figure?

If that happens it will open the flood gates to Herb Jefferson and the rest to appear even in one time episodes without a return.

Although some may be angry at them I think it may help the show be having the "TOS" influence around and maybe opening the door for some fans that refused to give the show a chance.

I'm not knocking those of you that watched the mini but didn't like it. I am referring to the audience that didn't like it before they knew what it was. The old cast will indirectly be reaching out to the "just give it a chance" crowd.

As I say, "Hope for the best" maybe Richard Hatch's potential involvement will move the show in the direction some of you are still waiting for but haven't seen yet.

This reminds me of when the NFL had the strike and played the games with the scab players. I cheered the scab Dolphins because they were still my team and the games counted. I cheered when some veterans broke ranks and rejoined the team. I cheered when the strike was over and we were all one happy family again.

[BST]

Although some may be angry at them I think it may help the show be having the "TOS" influence around and maybe opening the door for some fans that refused to give the show a chance.

Having the "TOS" actors in the new show will make NO difference to me. You see, Antelope, it was the direction that Moore took the show that I didn't like. Hell, they could resurrect Lorne Greene, John Colicos, Lloyd Bridges, and Jonathan Harris and it would still make no difference. It's Moore's telling of the story that I didn't care for, not who was in it.

Just the same, thanks for trying to reach out. It's appreciated.

[Dawg]

You're just a cheerful person, aren't you, antelope?

:blink:

Just for the record, nothing has been said yet about even a role being offered. There has been a meeting our two. Remember, too, that both of them have refused appearance opportunities on this thing before now.

And Richard won't be "breaking ranks" with anybody, even if he were to accept a role. To use a term like that is to perpetuate a split between TOS and mini fans that really isn't there (except in the minds of a few who enjoy conflict).

When casting choices and actor signings are announced is when anything said on these boards goes beyond uninformed speculation.

And it still won't make any difference at all.

Edit: What BST said. Yeah. ;)

I am
Dawg
:warrior:

[nccdee]

It been a while since I posted but I thought I would put me two cent worth.

Simply put, too much is being made out of this. Some are suggesting that Ron Moore is desperate to get more support. Others believe its a rating gimick.

Well, first of all, the series has not started yet and the mini had good rating so how can this be a need for desparation? And I don't think a deal with Hatch will make or break the series. As for a rating gmick, well Duh!!! Like George Clooney and Noah Wyle playing doctors on Friends, or Harry Connick Jr. play Grace's husband on Will and Grace. Whoopi Goldberg on Star Trek. Did you know that Robin Williams wanted to play a part on STNG but was too busy. Celeberty guest and cameos are not unsually but they do get a lot of attention when it happens.

If Richard Hatch does do an episode, I believe there will be a rating spike when it airs (its called curiosity). In the end, it Richard Hatch's decision and I wish him well on whatever he decide to do.

BST make a very good point. I am a big fan of Star Trek and a big fan of Scott Bakula but I just can't seem to like Star Trek Enterprise. The concept does not work for me. Although the new Galactica does work for me, I know people think overwise and no matter who you cast it won't change their view of the show. Take you favorite Pop song, then it made into a country song? Would you like? What if you don't like the sound of country music? Its still the song but not "your song".

nccdee

[Eric Paddon]

And Richard won't be "breaking ranks" with anybody, even if he were to accept a role. To use a term like that is to perpetuate a split between TOS and mini fans that really isn't there (except in the minds of a few who enjoy conflict).


I think denying that a split already exists on a lot of levels ends up denying the reality of what in fact is. And while I can't speak for others, I do not "enjoy" any kind of conflict at all. But I do think that if (and I am stressing the word if) this were to happen it would not be good for continuation backers, and would for whatever reasons Richard decided to do it, ultimately give Ron Moore and his supporters the chance they need at getting a credibility boost with TOS fans who remain (justifiably IMO) angry with him and totally undercut the case for a continuation.

While I personally would not use the term "breaking ranks" if it were to happen it would disappoint me, because I felt Richard's valiant attempt to defend the original series in the disgraceful Sci-Fi making of special, which even included a lot of censoring of criticisms he made of the mini, was his finest hour ever IMO (I confess I do not like any of his books). To see him then take part in a project that I think is now trying to exploit the original after running it down for so long, would be very difficult for me to take (as if there hasn't already been enough things abou this that have been difficult to take).

If Richard were to do this, and then others were to follow suit, then the common sense question that would then get asked is, "Why even bother doing anything else with these people called Battlestar Galactica when its obvious they're willing to do the remake?" and that prevailing attitude among the Powers That Be would ultimately carry the day most as far as the viability of a contiunation getting made is concerned.

[kingfish]

I hope there is word from Larson soon. The waiting is killing me and I agree with Shiningstar. The only person who knows what Richard is going to do is him. The rest of us will just have to wait and see.



Well stated. Hopefully the Larson camp will start a website.

[Antelope]

"breaking ranks":

I originally put that in quotes specifically because some assume that the TOS actors and writers are on "our team" against the mini. I know some will think Richard Hatch dissapointed them if he takes a role. I myself do not think there is a "team" in the minds of the cast and writers on either "side".

Prior to the announcement of the series it was in some people's interest (and I don't mean the fans) to exacerbate the conflict between the fan base and the mini in the hope of killing the Moore series before it launched. Now that the series is a fact those reasons no longer exist. I think we will be amazed to start seeing a lot more amicable comments about each other by all people professionally associated with all aspects of Battlestar Galactica.

I am trying to be cheerful. Remember my HOPE is to see the new series take off at a point similar to a potential TOS season 2 character and storywise if not necesarily character namewise. If the series is to happen don't we all want it to move toward the spirit of TOS as we perceive it? I have HOPE that we will all be pleasantly surprised with the series. Anything Richard Hatch or any one else can do to move the show in that direction to me is a positive developement.

Dirk Benedict already appeared in the mini "Low Down" so anything is possible.

Thus far Richard Hatch did the smart thing:

He was on record as against the mini before it aired along with the majority of his fans.
If it tanked he would be in the best position he could. Now that it succeeded if he joins he can help "save" the show. If ratings drop and he is in a few episodes he can say no one listened to him (maybe they didn't) and drop out. If it does well he will be part of the rising tide raising all boats.

If Richard Hatch takes a role (which is still speculation) it will be the best move for him, the fans, and the franchise.

Success has many fathers, failure is an orphan.

[jewels]

Eric P.:
counterpoint to your last point: Why make another thing with the same characters?
To capture that majority of the audience from the original that wanted nothing to do with the remake.

Lost in Space had this happen. The did the movie, many fans hated it, original cast members did cameos. NBC (I think it was) said "lets do a show where we bring the Robinson's back (original cast) rescue them and then lose the rescue party, letting them be the new generation lost in space." The show was either about to shoot or was shooting when Jonathan Harris died unexpectedly. That ended up pausing and then stopping that phase of that project. (I know the current project is a new cast, but this is also about 1.5 years after Harris' death.)

Hollywood does weird stuff. Things are still possible.

[Eric Paddon]

To capture that majority of the audience from the original that wanted nothing to do with the remake.

Well yes, that's why I want to see a continuation, but I think my point is that the people who are responsible for greenlighting such a project ultimately, which have to include studio execs and/or distributors who would have to be sold the idea by Larson, DeSanto or whoever, will ultimately take the position of why should they bother if the original cast is already now playing a semi-major to big role in the reimagined version in new roles. Ultimately it isn't just Larson and DeSanto who need convincing, it's other people in the industry as well who can help insure that such a continuation would be a quality effort with a good budget etc. And I don't see them being impressed by the viability of a continuation separate from the remake if original cast members start jumping on board the remake bandwagon.

[Eric Paddon]

Prior to the announcement of the series it was in some people's interest (and I don't mean the fans) to exacerbate the conflict between the fan base and the mini in the hope of killing the Moore series before it launched. Now that the series is a fact those reasons no longer exist. I think we will be amazed to start seeing a lot more amicable comments about each other by all people professionally associated with all aspects of Battlestar Galactica..

I can't agree with that for the simple fact that for fans like myself, and I think there are many who feel the same way, we do not *want* this series to succeed. I will be the first to admit I want it tank and fail big time because for me, I do not believe a continuation of what I have hoped and wished to see for 25 years will ever happen if the series is a hit.

If the series is to happen don't we all want it to move toward the spirit of TOS as we perceive it? I have HOPE that we will all be pleasantly surprised with the series. Anything Richard Hatch or any one else can do to move the show in that direction to me is a positive developement.

For myself, seeing the remake suddenly try to emulate the original after going out of its way to trash the legacy of the original as much as it did for a whole year prior to its coming out, this would be further rubbing of salt in the wounds, and while this may just be the sound of cynicism at its worst to some people, I find it very suspicious that Moore would suddenly want to start emulating the original series at this point. My honest opinion, which I don't have reason to feel differently about at this time, is that Moore knows that suddenly making the remake more like the old will only undermine efforts to get a continuation made because the Powers That Be who must ultimately back such a film project, will be far less inclined to do so under those circumstances. Once it became clear to him that a movie is only a pipe dream, I would fully expect him to take the series back in the way he prefers it, which is to make it totally different from Galactica as much as possible. That might be a cyncial, negative spin of things, but that's the only kind of spin that fits the image of Ron Moore after all he's done in the last year from my standpoint.

Now that it succeeded if he joins he can help "save" the show. If ratings drop and he is in a few episodes he can say no one listened to him (maybe they didn't) and drop out. If it does well he will be part of the rising tide raising all boats.

Here's another issue where we disagree. I do not believe the case has been made that the miniseries was "successful." It's numbers were far lower then some of the spin I saw put out after it's airing which put the numbers as high as 4.0 when it was actually 2.8. The long delay before a pickup finally happened also tells me that there were likely circumstances other than the numbers which caused it to get picked up. The numbers it pulled were decent for a cable show, but hardly runaway earth-shattering or creating a groundswell phenomena. If Sci-FI didn't have so much pride invested in their vision of Galactica as they saw it, I really think it wouldn't have gotten the pick-up.

But what this comes back to is a matter that I have to concede will demonstrate the permanence of a gulf between remake backers and a good many TOS fans like myself (I will not presume to speak for the whole of TOS fans or claim majority status, only that we represent a sizable faction of the Galactica fanbase) who feel that the best interests of the kind of continuation we've waited so long for, and been denied through more sad twists of fate than I can remember, lies in Moore's vision failing and becoming forgotten like "The New Perry Mason" did in the mid-70s.



Success has many fathers, failure is an orphan.[/QUOTE]

[larocque6689]

Prior to the announcement of the series it was in some people's interest (and I don't mean the fans) to exacerbate the conflict between the fan base and the mini in the hope of killing the Moore series before it launched.

That's an interesting description of the "fan wars". Most of the "give it a chancers" and remake supporters in fact jumped ship with the Filmjerk outline and Michael and Edward's script review. Prior to the unifying of the fanbase against the new production, the owner of this bulletin board actually took issue with one member (qmodo) for not joining in on the fight to the kill the new series.

I'm not going to cite chapter and verse of the "fan wars", but it's fair to say, once all the duplicate handles and frauds were pruned from the equation, the actual fanbase of the miniseries in 2003 that was posting on the BSG bulletin boards was a very small minority. Besides the fake miniseries handles, there were hotheads on the "purist" side of the equation who relished the prospect of fan infighting. Sadly, some authentic miniseries fans got lumped in with the troublemakers.

G2003 Subspace BBS became a ghost town with the vacation of all the fake handles. Sciffy is still a stinkhouse and prone to troll attacks, although fake handles there are much less of a concern than they were in either late December or earlier last yaer. The less said about G2003 EZBoard the better. Most of this nefarious activity took place prior to the December 2003 premiere, and while it's largely past history, it did happen, and most of us list veterans ahve the wounds to show for it.

MedaBlvd is currently functioning as a bulletin board largely oriented towards miniseries supporters. ColonialFleets had a great success with its pro-miniseries forum and they seem to be doing fairly well, notwithstanding the potshots from either side of the aisle (not naming names). There are other safe havens out there, and a lot of choice for fans to choose from. Contrary to one poster at Sciffy, my bulletin board preference is to mix it up with people who have a variety of different opinions. If I wanted to be in a place where we'd all think alike, I'd look in the mirror and talk to myself and maybe clone off a few handles for sheer pleasure.

As for Richard Hatch, I'm less concerned with the impact of this on the fanbase, then with his own integrity (which I do not doubt), and whether this is a good move professionally for him (which I think it is). This role may actually strengthen Richard's position that he's not some 70s has-been actor, but has the actual acting chops to deserve a prominent role in anything he involves himself with, including the RDM series or a continatuion. All this is dependent on a lot of "ifs", but I see this as being potentially good for Richard, and secondarily, potentially good for the BSG fanbase as a whole.

[Dawg]

I understand where you're coming from, Mr. Paddon. I think you're not seeing one very important piece of the puzzle, though.

Dollars drive the decision-making process. Any idea presented to the decision-makers of any major studio must include a positive bottom line. If you write the greatest script ever written about something that nobody's interested in, there won't be a positive bottom line and not one of the major studios will touch it, artistic merit notwithstanding.

On the other hand, if you show the decision makers they could make a bundle of money making your picture, you'll get it made. Look at some of the garbage being produced. "Jackass the Movie"? Please. Made them money, though. So it got made.

Casting, scripting, SFX all become secondary to the decision. Richard could start playing Lee Adama tomorrow and still get cast as the Apollo of our continuation if that initial decision whether to make the movie is "yes".

Bottom line, for those of us interested in a continuation movie, is that it doesn't matter if any of the cast from TOS BSG ever shows up on the RDM series.

It does not matter. Showing support for a TOS movie does. That is vitally important. And now is the time to do so, while the issues are fresh in the minds of Larson and DeSanto, the studios, and the public still scratching their heads over what that was they saw in December.

That's why I'm so avidly involved with CFF. It is our chance to show the big shots that there's still life in the TOS universe. Anything else - ANYTHING ELSE - simply doesn't matter.

I am
Dawg
:warrior:

[DarkJedi]

I am breaking my silence on this post, only because so many have emailed me wanting to know if I am going to go off again. For those who have asked... no I am not. Sorry to disappoint you. :no:
As MicheleH said...its just a rumor at this point. If it pans out to be true... seriously what can we do? He is able to make his own decisions, we have no say in his life.
I do think that there will be a wave of disappointment with the TOS fans, maybe some will feel betrayed. Remember, everyone is entitled to their own opinion. Right now I can't tell you how I will feel to it. Why? Because it's just a rumor now. But I will tell everyone...do not expect a "show" from me, because it ain't gonna happen. I hope that eases some peoples minds on this issue and I can leave it be.

'nuff said.

[Darth Marley]

Did I miss a good rant?

[DarkJedi]

No you didn't miss a thing. Seriously. The only reason why I brought it back up is because I am tired of people emailing me expecting me to go off again. This is my way of saying for those that expect this from me, sorry to say ... so sad to disappoint them. I refuse to go off like I did before. I learned, I grew.

"nuff said

[Darth Marley]

I must have missed the first episode then.

[DarkJedi]

Not sure if you missed it or if you just forgot it. It was around november - december ish.

[Darth Marley]

Oh, stuff that old doesn't count. Maybe I'll look it up.

I figure this particular "rumor" will be resolved within 2 weeks.

I get a kick out of some of the silly speculation from fellow mini fans.

[Antelope]

Thanks for all the friendly replies. I appreciated them. Just so I don't get taken the wrong way here is just a couple clarifications to my thoughts:

Fan Wars: I realize that a few jerks who claimed they were pro-mini (they may be simply trolls) are responsible for 90% of the fan war. I will add however that creating a negative image of the mini, scifi, and Moore was in the interest of some people outside of the fan base. Whether these people expressed their true feeling in reference to the mini or were simply fanning their own interest I do not know.

Opinion on the new series at this point relative to a continuation breaks down three ways:

The new series whether good or bad brings exposure to Galactica and helps a possible continuation. If you believe this Richard Hatch coming on board the new series would be a positive thing because it helps exposure. I think this is the majority view so we should be happy.

The new series whether good or bad is Galacticas last chance. If Richard Hatch comes on board it will help the series and help save the franchise. I think this is the majority view of mini-fans.

The new series if good will destroy the opportunity for the continuation. If this turns out to be true then there won't be any continuation anyway so seeing Richard Hatch in a Galactica role on a "good" show will be a positive thing. I think this is a minority view but it is the view of those hoping for the mini to fail. Since I think Richard Hatch's character will neither make or break the new series let's cut him some slack if (and that's a big if) he takes a role.

No matter how you look at things. As long as you don't take Richard Hatch's actions personally (He is a traitor if he takes the role kind of attitude) you can see that if he takes a role it will either be a positive thing for the continuation or at least it has no negative impact.

I hope to see Richard Hatch in both the new series and a continuation. If I don't ever see a continuation I would like to at least see him in the new series and wonder what if?

[Eric Paddon]

The new series if good will destroy the opportunity for the continuation. If this turns out to be true then there won't be any continuation anyway so seeing Richard Hatch in a Galactica role on a "good" show will be a positive thing. I think this is a minority view but it is the view of those hoping for the mini to fail.

I'm afraid that does not accurately characterize my view. The new series *succeeding* is bad for a continuation and bad for Galactica in general IMO, and the fact that it could succeed would not make it "good" since I do not believe there is anything that can be done to make this good, and I feel that represents the view of a great number of fans. Thus, Richard appearing can not possibly be positive, because for me personally that is just more salt being rubbed in the wounds, no matter what Richard's actual intentions/motives are (again if this is what eventually happens).

Those who would be on the side I am on, are not afraid of the remake being "good" because for me personally, nothing can ever make it "good." Seeing it become a success is my greatest nightmare and if it happens, then I can consider Battlestar Galactica as I knew and loved it, dead and buried forever because I do not see the people who control the purse strings in Hollywood opening up their wallets for a contination movie if there's already another successful property with that name out there.

[Eric Paddon]

On the other hand, if you show the decision makers they could make a bundle of money making your picture, you'll get it made.

I would say in reply that that is the point I've been operating from. The success of the reinvention, particularly one with original cast members taking part in it, will convince those decision makers there is *not* any money to be made from doing something with the same name because it will get branded as a knock-off, and will be seen by them as catering to a narrow fan base, because if the fan base were so broad to begin with, there would have been no reinvention.

[default]

Thanks for all the friendly replies. I appreciated them. Just so I don't get taken the wrong way here is just a couple clarifications to my thoughts:

Fan Wars: I realize that a few jerks who claimed they were pro-mini (they may be simply trolls) are responsible for 90% of the fan war. I will add however that creating a negative image of the mini, scifi, and Moore was in the interest of some people outside of the fan base. Whether these people expressed their true feeling in reference to the mini or were simply fanning their own interest I do not know.

Opinion on the new series at this point relative to a continuation breaks down three ways:

The new series whether good or bad brings exposure to Galactica and helps a possible continuation. If you believe this Richard Hatch coming on board the new series would be a positive thing because it helps exposure. I think this is the majority view so we should be happy.

The new series whether good or bad is Galacticas last chance. If Richard Hatch comes on board it will help the series and help save the franchise. I think this is the majority view of mini-fans.

The new series if good will destroy the opportunity for the continuation. If this turns out to be true then there won't be any continuation anyway so seeing Richard Hatch in a Galactica role on a "good" show will be a positive thing. I think this is a minority view but it is the view of those hoping for the mini to fail. Since I think Richard Hatch's character will neither make or break the new series let's cut him some slack if (and that's a big if) he takes a role.

No matter how you look at things. As long as you don't take Richard Hatch's actions personally (He is a traitor if he takes the role kind of attitude) you can see that if he takes a role it will either be a positive thing for the continuation or at least it has no negative impact.

I hope to see Richard Hatch in both the new series and a continuation. If I don't ever see a continuation I would like to at least see him in the new series and wonder what if? thats the bomb dee

[DarkJedi]

Darth - not sure if they will be around. I think I had them deleted. It was for the best.

Antelope...sorry. I am sure you are a great person, but I can't agree with what you wrote, but again, like I said before, we all have our own opinions. Some of what you said I can agree with but not all of it. Again, sorry. And I am not trying to flame you, just letting you know others may agree with you but I can't. Sorry.

[larocque6689]

I'm afraid that does not accurately characterize my view. The new series *succeeding* is bad for a continuation and bad for Galactica in general IMO.

But is it bad for Richard Hatch? This could evolve into the best role he's had in years. Until we know more about what's being discussed, we really can't say much at this point. Richard has some very strong ideas and I hope for his sake that whatever they discuss may be in both his perosnal and his professional interest.

[Eric Paddon]

But is it bad for Richard Hatch? This could evolve into the best role he's had in years.

John, you may well be right about that. That could be what influences him ultimately (standard disclaimer-If it comes to that), and I can at least say that any disappointment I would feel or sense that this would be bad for a continuation, would not be coupled with any ridiculous accusations of "Richard betrayed the fanbase" or anything like that. That would be projecting one's personal disappointment in the wrong way.

[Antelope]

Antelope...sorry. I am sure you are a great person, but I can't agree with what you wrote, but again, like I said before, we all have our own opinions. Some of what you said I can agree with but not all of it. Again, sorry. And I am not trying to flame you, just letting you know others may agree with you but I can't. Sorry.

No need to say sorry! I value all opinions even if I disagree. :salute:

I don't see how Richard Hatch being in the new series can be negative except in the following possible scenario:

1. If you think that the new series must fail in order for there to be a Continuation.
2. The new series success or failure will be determined by Richard Hatch's acting and standing in the Battlestar fan community if he takes a role.

I just don't think the script will be any different whether Richard Hatch plays any role offered or some other actor. Richard Hatch may give the show a temporary ratings spike but long term it will live or die based on Moore's writing and SCIFIs budget.

Yes I am a "minifan" :duck: and would like to see Richard Hatch in the new series. I think however it is really a non-issue to the Continuation effort.

I like the acting of Scott Bakula but quit watching Enterprise for a long time when the scripts sucked. Now that the scripts seem better I started watching again.

[Artemis]

According to scifi wire this morning they are in final negotiations for Hatch to appear in probably the 3rd show of the new series. My feelings are mixed on this, I would love to see him in a new show but I don't like that it is BG2003, or is it BG2004 now.