Fans of the iconic science fiction franchise Stargate are celebrating the monumental news that the series is officially being rebooted for television after a 15-year absence from our screens.
Amazon Prime Video, following its acquisition of MGM, is the studio behind this highly anticipated revival, which promises to bring a new team through the iconic alien portal.
A Legacy Reborn: From SG-1 to a New Era
The original television phenomenon, Stargate SG-1, first aired in 1997 and captivated audiences for a decade until its conclusion in 2007. It famously starred Richard Dean Anderson, of MacGyver fame, as the charismatic leader Colonel Jack O'Neill.
The show's premise followed a secret military team exploring distant planets via a ancient alien device known as a Stargate, encountering new allies and formidable threats across the galaxy.
The success of SG-1 spawned a television universe, including the popular spin-off Stargate Atlantis which ran from 2004 to 2009, and Stargate Universe from 2009 to 2011. The latter was previously thought to be the final chapter for the franchise.
Fandom and Creative Power Unite
Online, the announcement has been met with overwhelming joy from a dedicated fanbase. One Reddit user previously encapsulated the show's appeal, stating it was 'one of the best Sci Fi shows ever made', praising its blend of serious stories, comedy, and social commentary.
Another fan declared it their personal favourite, noting its 'special' quality that set it apart from other series in the genre.
Leading the new series will be Martin Gero, a producer with deep roots in the Stargate world. Gero's first major television role was as a Story Editor on Stargate: Atlantis, and he subsequently worked across all three series for five years.
In an emotional statement, Gero said, 'Stargate taught me everything about making television – it’s written into my DNA.' He pledged to 'guide this incredible franchise into its next phase', directly addressing long-time fans and promising newcomers something 'extraordinary'.
Building on a Solid Foundation
Adding to the authenticity of the project, original Stargate showrunners Brad Wright and Joe Mallozzi are reported to be joining the reboot as consulting producers.
Nick Pepper, Head of US SVOD TV development for Amazon MGM Studios, praised Stargate as an 'enduring, iconic franchise' known for its 'bold exploration of humanity’s place in the cosmos'.
It is a significant return for a franchise that began not on television, but as a major motion picture in 1994. The film starred Kurt Russell and James Spader, with the roles later being recast for the TV series. Notably, actors Alexis Cruz and Erick Avari reprised their film roles in SG-1.
For a generation of sci-fi enthusiasts, the confirmation that the Stargate is once again active marks the thrilling beginning of a brand new adventure.
