From Sci-Fi to Cultural Icon: The Evolution of Battlestar Galactica
In the annals of science fiction history, few series have undergone such a dramatic transformation as Battlestar Galactica. The new oral history, So Say We All, penned by the bestselling duo Mark A. Altman and Edward Gross, delves deep into the metamorphosis of this iconic series. Originally conceived in 1978, riding the wave of Star Wars fever, Battlestar Galactica featured a robot dog and clunky mechanical villains known as the Cylons. Fast forward to its reimagined version in 2004, debuting on the Syfy Channel, it emerged as one of the most critically acclaimed shows of its era, a true phoenix rising from the ashes of 9/11.
The Unlikely Transformation: From Skepticism to Adoration
When the announcement of a miniseries remake hit the fan base, it was met with skepticism, to say the least. Fans of the original were wary, particularly when it was revealed that the beloved character Starbuck, originally played by the swashbuckling Dirk Benedict, would be reimagined as a fierce woman portrayed by Katee Sackhoff. This decision alone sparked a firestorm of debate within the fan community. Moreover, Colonel Tigh, originally played by the elegant black actor Terry Carter, was recast as a caucasian actor, Michael Hogan, portraying a boozing, screw-up version of the character. Yet, despite these changes, the show gradually won over many fans, partly due to the support of one of its biggest critics: actor Richard Hatch, who had played Apollo in the original series and later joined the new version as revolutionary Tom Zarek.
Visual Evolution: Starbuck, Then and Now
(Starbuck, then and now; Photo Credit: Getty Images)
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Behind the Scenes: The Turning Point
The journey of Battlestar Galactica’s acceptance wasn’t always smooth sailing. The following exclusive excerpt from So Say We All sheds light on the pivotal moment when the tide began to turn. Ronald D. Moore, the co-creator and executive producer, recounts the challenges faced during the miniseries’ script leak and the backlash from fans, particularly regarding the gender change of Starbuck. Despite the criticism, Moore remained steadfast in his vision, convinced that what they were creating would resonate with audiences.
Ronald D. Moore on Fan Reactions
“The script for the miniseries had leaked, and there was a lot of fan reaction about making Starbuck a woman. You know, ‘What are they trying to do here?’ Glen Larson, creator of the original series, came out and said, ‘They’re just doing a show with a lot of dirty words in it.’ What the hell does that mean? A lot of dirty words? So it was a fan backlash that we were starting to get, which I didn’t really care about, because I knew that the Galactica fan group was a pretty small one and I was convinced that what we were doing was going to work.”
The Sci-Fi Channel's Dilemma
Mark Stern, the Sci-Fi Channel Head of Programming, shares the network’s concerns about the reinvention of Battlestar Galactica. There was a fear that the original fan base wouldn’t embrace the new version, and even those unfamiliar with the original might dismiss it as just another sci-fi show. The tension reached a peak at a Comic-Con panel, where fans threatened to protest the changes, especially the gender-swapped Starbuck.
Ronald D. Moore's Brave Move
Despite the backlash, Moore took a bold step by attending Galacticon, a convention dedicated to celebrating the original Battlestar Galactica. He brought along clips from the miniseries, hoping to sway the skeptical audience. However, the reception was anything but warm, with boos and hisses echoing through the hall. It was a hostile crowd, questioning the authenticity of the new series and expressing disdain for the changes.
Richard Hatch's Intervention
In a dramatic turn of events, Richard Hatch, the original Apollo, stood up and addressed the crowd, urging them to treat Moore with respect. This act of diplomacy changed the atmosphere, allowing Moore to explain his vision and commitment to creating a show that honored the original while pushing boundaries. Hatch’s endorsement played a crucial role in shifting the fans’ perspective, helping them see the new series as a celebration rather than a betrayal of the original.
From Skepticism to Acceptance: The Role of Richard Hatch
Hatch's involvement in the new series further bridged the gap between the old and new fans. Initially reluctant, Hatch eventually embraced the role of Tom Zarek, bringing depth and authenticity to the character. David Eick, co-creator and executive producer, recalls the irony and wisdom of hiring Hatch, noting how it subverted the critics and won over skeptics.
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Ronald D. Moore's Reflection
Moore reflects on the significance of Hatch’s participation, crediting it with changing the perception of some fans. The inclusion of elements from the original series, such as the iconic theme during the ship’s flight, ensured that the reimagined version remained rooted in its legacy. It wasn’t about disregarding the past but celebrating it through a modern lens.
Tor Books’ So Say We All: An Uncensored, Oral History of Battlestar Galactica is available wherever books are sold in hardcover and digital.
