Well, I'm back from Vegas and I'm sorry to say I wasn't able to double my savings by betting it all on black - so it looks like I'll have to work next year. Overall, it was a fine time although I don't think I'll be heading back anytime soon. We stayed at the new Wynn Hotel which was nice, had some stellar restaurants (Alex and the brasserie), but some of the most uncomfortable beds (and equally uncomfortable pillows) I've ever slept on. My bad luck at the tables kept me cranky. Still, it was nice to spend time with some of the gang off the lot.
I couldn't help but notice all of the comments with regard to the show and the various characters. What I found particularly interesting was that while some people were enraged that Mitchell was receiving too much attention, others were complaining that he was being overlooked. Some were outraged by the lack of Daniel-centered episodes while others complained because the season was so Daniel-heavy. Well, let me make something clear. There is no exact recipe we follow when writing a script (ie. 1/4 Mitchell + 1/4 Carter + 1/4 Daniel + 1/4 Teal'c = 1 complete episode). The types of stories we tell dictate who gets the focus in a particular episode. Because we wanted to establish new villains in season 9, and because said villains were linked to the Ancients, and because Daniel Jackson was linked to the Ancients, then the first six episodes were more Daniel-heavy. Because we have brought on a new team member, and because we want to explore his character now that we have established the new villains, then some upcoming episodes will be Mitchell-heavy. Teal'c will continue to have an active storyline given the ongoing events on Dakara, while Carter's skills as both a scientist and a soldier will continue to play a significant role in upcoming episodes.
As I said in previous blogs, I appreciate the input, the accolades, and the critiques. But I do have a bit of a problem with personal criticisms specificially targeting our actors and their respective attitudes. Feel free to complain about the direction of the Mitchell character if you like (although, as I said, we've just started exploring him). However, those of you complaining about Ben the person and/or actor might be better off actually writing out said critiques in a letter and mailing it to Santa c/0 The North Pole. I thought Ben did a terrific job on Farscape - and it was his work on Farscape that led me to suggest bringing him aboard (on two earlier occasions prior to his landing the role of Cameron Mitchell). He has done an equally terrific job on our show and his attitude has been nothing less than remarkable. He loves the show and is 100% committed to doing everything he can to make it better (and if that means sticking around set rather than heading back to his trailer or coming in on his days off, then he'll do it). So to those criticizing him or any of the show's actors on a personal level and presuming to be "in the know", I'd encourage you to start addressing all further comments to Mr. Clause. Or, to quote that principal on who the movie Lean on Me was based on: "Stop flapping your vaseline lips".
Well, its back to the office on Monday where we'll be watching some mixes (The Tower and Epiphany), a producer's cut of Inferno (compliments of Martin Gero), and Paul and I get to work on Camelot.
In the meantime, I'm into season 5 of OZ (where the show takes an unfortunate hairpin turn into "the not so wonderful world of fantasy"), and heading into disc 6 of Wolf's Rain, R.O.D., and Peacemaker (and enjoying them all). Also, almost done with the second season of Arrested Development (Great!), and seven episodes into the first season of Lost with my wife (after finishing up with the first season of Airline which we really enjoyed).
Oh, and I forgot to mention this in my last blog, but I couldn't help but notice the Gateworld "What do you think of season 9 so far?" poll. Your choices are:
A) Fantastic! The best SG-1 ever.
B) Entertaining, but not great.
C) Fair. I'm not impressed.
D) Lousy. Where's my Stargate?
E) I haven't seen it yet.
Or, in other words:
A) The greatest SG-1 ever!
B) Not good.
C) Not very good at all.
D) Terrible.
E) No opinion.
Whatever happened to Excellent, Good, Fair, Poor, and Terrible?
Executive producer Joseph Mallozzi has been on the SG-1 writing
staff since Season Four. Along with writing partner Paul Mullie, Joe has
written such fan favorite episodes as "Window of Opportunity," "Summit,"
and "Lockdown." Joe lives in Vancouver, British Columbia. 
So, pretty much the Cam show for the rest of the year, eh? As for the poll, frankly New and Improved Stargate requires grading on a curve.
What do I think of Season 9 so far?
B) - But only the first two episodes have aired here so far, and that's not much to base an opinion on.
Or on other words:
E) No opinion until I've seen a few more. But, both are sure to shoot up to A once we're a fair few episodes into the season - It's Stargate, after all :)
Browder fits in so well though... I think it's a shame he and Claudia haven't had much screen time together (but that could just be because I'm a Farscape fan)
Joe, thanks for sticking up for the actors.
Nice to know you have noticed how biased Gateworld has been and continues to be in it's portrayal of the show.
Interestingly the Offical Stargate SG1 magazine published in the UK recently had stacks of fan letters bashing the new season as well.
Nice to know that both the offical and semi offical publications are so supportive when they don't get Jack and Sam marrying.
Thank goodness for your response Joe. Hopefully that'll now put an end to the extremely personal attacks aimed at the actors... not just Ben, but Amanda too.
Just to agree that it was great to bring Ben on and that you appreciate his previous work. I'm really enjoying his character here, although I'm one of those that can't wait to learn more of him. I've enjoyed all of the Season this year... really enjoying Beau's Landry and his historical quotes, Lam and the rascillion Vala.
Congrats on a fantastic Season.
Kas.
After all that I have an uncontrollable desire to say "Buuuuuuuuuuuuuurn!!"
I think the great divide between fans who think there's too much of character x and fans who think there's not enough of character x has to do with how each person feels about that character. If I hate x, then any scene with him is too much. If I love x, then there can never be enough scenes with them. Such is life.
Thanks again for the anime update; all three of your choices have been on my backburner for a while, right after I get through Samurai Champloo, Planetes, and Kurau: Phantom Memory.
You're right. There was quite a bit of AntiCam stuff in that last comments slot. Lots of AntiSam stuff too I might add. And it devolved into making irresponsible and rude comments about both of these fine actors. I wish people would stop with the bashing...it's really not necessary to tear one character down to boost another like that.
I can't say I'm AntiCam as that would be wholly unfair to a character I barely know yet. I loved Ben in Farscape too...so I'm waiting for some of that energy and charisma to show up in Cam. From your blog entries, I sense that we might very well be seeing that soon.
As for the rating system, I'm not sure how to vote. The first five episodes ranged from Entertaining to Where's my Stargate...and the last five ranged from Fair to Fantastic.
Trying to put one rating for the whole thing would be unbalanced at this point as there were a few episodes that were stellar, a few that were entertaining and a few I literally felt shellshocked from the disappointment afterward.
So I'll go with Fair to Entertaining for the first several (I'll ignore the two I hated)...and by Prototype and 4th Horseman, it seemed like Stargate was getting back on track (closer to Fantastic! The best SG-1 ever).
I'm now really looking forward to what comes next.
Mary Beth
Thank you, Joe for your words about Ben. I think it is shameful that people are treating him poorly because their gal or guy or storyline isn't front and center.
Don't dare bash MY favorite but your favorite is fair game. Sheesh.
In other news, Hurricane Wilma is already causing damage and looks to get stonger, in Pakistan, they are still uncovering bodies from the earthquake, and in California, a mentally ill mother dropped her three young children off of a bridge and drown them all.
TV is supposed to be a pleasent destraction from all the ugliness and suffering in the world. When the fans are figuratively cutting each other throats and the actors' over a stupid TV show (Sorry, Joe, I mean in comparision), it's pretty sad.
Some of the worst offenders are obviously trolls looking to stir up trouble because they can, so maybe a "No feeding the trolls" policy is in order.
Wow, things sound really bleak for the original characters in the second half of season nine. Nobody expects you to ignore Mitchell (though you've done a terrific job of that so far), but you've had absolutely nothing good to say about Carter, Teal'c, or Daniel for quite awhile. Nothing, that is, but snide, dismissive comments that I hope are intended to be witty or glib. I feel I have to tell you, they mostly sound petulant. So, maybe instead of saying, "Daniel? Yeah, he's still around. But have you seen our wonderful new guy?"; or, "Carter and Teal'c? They'll be doing their special things in some future episodes. But haven't I already told you how wonderful the new characters are? I championed them, you know", you could say something that shows a little more gratitude to those actors and those fans who have kept you rolling in enough money that you can blow a sizable chunk of it in Vegas for quite a few years now. Oh yeah, remember Jack O'neill? Where the hell is he at? Spontaneous combustion?
Because we have brought on a new team member, and because we want to explore his character now that we have established the new villains, then some upcoming episodes will be Mitchell-heavy.
Some. Just like there should be some episodes that are Daniel heavy, and some that are Sam heavy, and some that are Teal'c heavy. And, even if it's not mathematically thought out, hopefully the overall feel will be that everyone gets their chance. And, most importantly, a huge load of TEAM heavy episodes.
Hey, if the second half of season 9 does turn out to be only about Mitchell, I won't be happy at all. But, saying that some episodes (some, some, some) will be Mitchell heavy is not synonymous with it being the Cam show for the rest of the year.
As far as grading, so far this season gets an excellent from me, but it's not the best season ever. That still belongs to the grand and glorious season 2.
Dani347
I'm in the 'Don't feed the Trolls' camp, but then I cut my fannish teeth on Usenet so it's second nature by now.
I like Cam, think he's a great additon. Oh, and cute. I'd like to see more of him and more of him interacting with the team.
Love having Sam back, missed her, even though I understand why AT was otherwise occupied, you have to get your priorities right in life.
Adored Daniel and Vala, how the bloody hell are they going to defeat the Ori, how do you defeat an ideology? Will we finaly find out about that lost year with the ascended, forgotten inside that pretty head?
Very interested in what happens next with the Jaffa. Can
Teal'c draw them back together? Do they want a focus so badly that they will go back to worshiping gods? Looking forward to finding out, reminds me of the good old days of DS9 and Bajoran/Cardassian politics.
In short, enjoyed first 10 episodes and can't wait for the next 10.
I live between three ice cream farms - we are a big milk producing county, hence Cheshire cheese, the ice cream farms are just a bonus. I can give you directions if you are in the UK. Cheshire Ice Cream Farm rhubarb and custard is my current favourite, the rhubarb is slightly tart which makes a great contrast with the sweetness of the custard.
Frostfox - Sorry SG1 didn't win the Hugo, Joe, I voted for it. [smug] Mine is very pretty though![ /smug}
Joe,
Thank you so much for addressing the issue of the personal attacks on the actors, especially Ben. It's amazing what people will say under the cloak of anonymity, and I suspect the comments section from your last blog had a bit of a mob mentality to it, where one comment fed another and so on.
Everything I've ever heard about Ben's work ethic and his committment to what he's working on has been excellent, so I found the personal comments about him to be particularly offensive.
I'm very glad to hear there is more Mitchell, and your reasoning behind how the season was structured makes a lot of sense.
Thanks for coming here and blogging for us. I hope you enjoy some time off before Season 10 starts - fingers crossed.
ShardsofGlass
Personally, I love the cast changes for S9. I'd love to see Vala every week, though I guess she'd have to tone it down a bit to be a full-time member of SG-1. But hey, it worked for McKay, big-time! I love Mitchell and found his gradual introduction refreshing.
As for the GW S9 poll, I noticed the same weirdness to the choices you did. I hope it's not as simple as "no ship = no support" as some have claimed.
Here's a nice page of polls if anyone would like to vote or view:
Poll Page
Season 9 looks like a winner on that page!
Sorry to hear about the beds at the Wynn. All I've heard is how beautiful it is...
Joe:
Welcome back from Vegas. Sorry you didn't win anything. Did you get to see any filming of shows like CSI or the new show about Vegas while you were there?
Thanks for standing up for the actors.
I'm afraid I have to agree with the growing number of comments here on the blog, and elsewhere, from fans who are tired of the BB pimping in the PR department. (I am talking strictly about the PR using BB I am not making personal attacks or remarks ON BB).
I admit you and your colleagues have all stayed admirably "on message" with all the pimping of BB in the PR, however, at some point credibility does begin to suffer and that point seems to be rapidly approaching. Joe, that sound you hear is the majority of the fans that encompass that 2.0 rating, choking on BB being shoved down their throats to about the total exclusion of the 3 main stars (in case you are not sure who I mean it's AT, CJ, MS)- the next sound you hear will be the gagging. (BTW, it's very nice the way you stand up for BB, however some of the most nasty, personal attacks these days have been on Ms. Tapping and Mr. Anderson, so nasty that I will not even repeat them, but once again, staying on message, you have pushed them to the background whilst over-extending your defense of Mr. Browder and it is not attractive, not when you see the vile nature of the comments being made about ALL 3 imparticular, no one actor should be singled out for special treatment by TPTB and that continues to be the impression you and your colleagues are giving, even when it comes to sticking up for them (him) from personal attacks.)
As was pointed out in another comment, that 2.0 rating is made up of a huge majority of SG1 fans who have followed the ORIGINAL team for 6,7,8 years, the very fans that have kept you, your colleagues at Bridge and SG1 and skiffy, in the money for the past 9 years. A huge part of that 2.0 is watching the show BECAUSE OF AT, CJ and MS -not really because of the addition of BB, or anyone else (yes there are some but let's be realistic shall we?).
Things are not pretty with SG1 right now and they have been going downhill since S7. Plenty of debacles along the way and now in S9 3 additional biggies, the complete and total mishandling of O'Neill's exit for whatever reason, but it was mishandled, the co-leader debacle (based almost solely on the unrealistic position Mitchell was put in as to come from nowhere, not having ever seen a Stargate before and not ever having been off world or seen an alien before, to be co-leader with someone who trained with the best and has 8 years of experience - in what world did anyone at Bridge or Skiffy think that would be bought by the majority of that 2.0?), and the third being the new 1 minute credit debacle - once again BB being shoved down our throats to the detriment of the 3 major reasons a large part of the 2.0 is watching.
You all are doing a great job at one thing, alienating a very large piece of that 2.0 and for what, a few hundred thousand Farscape fans? It makes so little sense it's scary.
IIRC SG1 averaged a 2.1 in S8 over all and 2.0 for the first half - thus far S9 is at 2.0, so taking into account you lost some diehard SG1 fans with loss of RDA, and an additional few hundred thousand to account for added numbers per percentage point, the numbers certainly don't bear out any huge influx of Farscape fans that TPTB can afford to lay their futures in (I have to believe that Farscape stayed on the air for 4 years with a ratings base higher than a .3 or a .4) - my question - where are all those people you've all been pimping BB for? Perhaps the suits at Skiffy/MGM/Sony/Bridge, whoever made this decision to pimp BB to the exclusion of the 3 lead actors, overestimated the number of fans they would bring in with all this pimping of BB – oh wait, no one involved at TPTB level for SG1 ever admits they made a mistake so that CAN’T be it.
My Mom, one of the 2 people I hold out as my hero (my Dad being the other), always taught me "careful what you wish for"-- you all may get your "male lead" wish but in the end you may lose your show if you are not really careful in how this continues to be handled. Some of your newest comments are a concern as well let's just hope the pimping of BB stays in the press and does not overtake the show with the Mitchell hour, the TEAM is the thing and the 3 lead actors (again just a reminder that's AT, CJ, MS) that the majority of the 2.0 watch for are, and have been your bread & butter, let's hope you and your colleagues do not lose sight of that.
Mr. Mallozzi, I'm shocked! How dare you send the crazies to Mr. Claus! He already has enough mail from the naughty and nice children to deal with than to deal with fielding mail from the ones who act like children! ;-)
I saw the opening credits via the wonders of the internet. I like the way the transitions of the clips work (ships moving from one shot to another, the fades...yes, we notice those things too). I think a mountain's been made out of a mole hill for who's showing where (though I DID notice a lack of Teal'c, LOL! ;-) I'm aware others disagree. Just my opinion.
I haven't voted in the last two polls at GW, because my opinions don't fit with their choices. I like the ones over at Stargate Solutions, though. They're pretty colors. Haven't seen any at the other stargate fan sites.
All four of SG-1 for second half of the season and SEASON 10. All four of SG-1! (Yes, I mean the four listed in the current credits)Team baby team!
Darren already admitted he didn't do as good a job on the poll as he could have: "The first two options were meant to be positive, the second two negative. I made the mistake of including a negative qualifier in #2 to try and distinguish it from #1. Send me your receipt and I'll issue a full refund."
And while it'd be nice to think that folks will magically behave now that Joe has spoken out against the trolls and other effluvia oozing through the blogs, spreading their diseased ideas... it just ain't gonna happen. As long as the Anonymous option remains open, certain "people" (and I use that term loosely) will feel compelled to exploit it to their full, sick advantage. *shrug*
The best option is most definitely to ignore them, no matter how overwhelmingly tempting it may be to jump to the defense of the actors/characters/crew/etc. Anyone rational will know to discount the irrational and anyone irrational isn't willing to listen to reason.
It won't make ALL of them go away, but it might thin the herd a bit.
We can all dream, anyway, right? :)
As I said in previous blogs, I appreciate the input, the accolades, and the critiques. But I do have a bit of a problem with personal criticisms specificially targeting our actors and their respective attitude
Welcome to the latter stages of fandom. In the beginning, everything is rosey, everybody gets along because everybody loves the same show. All the actors/characters are beloved. In ye olden days, this could last a year, now it’s more like months because of the speed of the internet. Soon fans beginning pairing off into their own little groups (ship, slash, etc.) but still get along because they all play in their own playgrounds. But soon the show’s been around, fans get bored or the show has changed or both and some fans will make critical remarks. What usually starts the downward spiral of fandom is fans who hate the show but never leave the boards, just complaining all the time, and those that feel that NOTHING is wrong with the show and proceed to flame anybody who so much as says “Gee, Jack would have looked better if he combed his hair,” taking personal affront to a supposed slur or scream at newbies who ask an innocent question ;)
Wait, I went off track. Anyway, unless a fan knows an actor personally, I don’t see how they can criticize them personally. Sure, actors do conventions, but they’re there to entertain, not be a best bud. Personally, I think choosing Ben Browder to head up SG1 was one of the best decisions in the last couple seasons. I’ll be flamed for this, no doubt, but wish it had been done sooner.
You can read this humorous account of fandom at http://www.pink-khaki.net/10stages.html
And there’s a good light bulb joke that applies to any list – just change ‘lightbulb’ to ‘stargate’ and well, same thing - http://www.ahajokes.com/com009.html
However, there’s a much better description out there somewhere that explains how fandom is great in the beginning, sucky at the end, but there are so many websites to look through and so little time ;)
Re polls
Whatever happened to Excellent, Good, Fair, Poor, and Terrible?
Too blaise?
I don’t vote too much on GW because the options can be limited. You get 4 choices on one show, 5 on another. At times you get excellent, good, poor and terrible. You’re not allowed to vote fair/average, which makes no sense. If I don’t think the episode is good, but don’t think it’s poor, I have no option, so why bother voting? If GW wants to accommodate all fans, they should offer 5 choices on BOTH shows all the time, and give standardized answers. If they want to add Excellent – Love it, Terrible – it sucked, fine, but give fans a proper choice.
Mr. Mallozzi,
I agree with you and your sentiments. You were VERY nice recommending Santa !
I probably would have used 'stick' rather than 'send' !
You shouldn't have to defend this season, though. The characters are FAR more 'rounded out'. Participating more in each episode than any other season.
[Except when they cannot be on set (Amanda).]
It would not take too much effort to think of a LIST of episodes from the first seven seasons where a MAIN character could have been missing entirely and not affected the story one whit. This is no longer true. With Mitchell being a leader, and not a star (Hey, I LIKE RDA!!), everyone else gets a bigger part to play.
As for Daniel, remember the movie. There, Daniel DROVE the movie. He is supposed to be an INCREDIBLE GENIUS (Like Sam). I completely accept his leading (in the first three eps), and coming up with BIG ideas in the rest. Even Teal'c is more a 'part' of the show. I do not know if it's the best season ever. It is on it's way. Ask me in April.
Mr. Mallozzi,
I have to say a huge thank you for sticking up for the actors/actresses and the shows. Bravo and well done! After all, it's not just what co-workers are for.... but what friends (and family) are for.
I wish you all the best for the future.
Irimaelen
Ontario, Canada
I thought the EXACT same thing about the poll, so I just didn't vote...good call.
All in all, it sounds exactly like the group of people who attacked Michael Shanks as well. Certainly when you start to wander back in history the names on the forum are the same as those back then.
Sorry to hear this is your last blog... I, As I'm sure many others with me have enjoyed reading it...
As far as critisism on actors go... I think everyone there is doing a great job, I'm certainly not going to send a letter to Santa :D ... Kudos to all of you people there at bridge studios for a job well done... Looking forward to many more adventures you guys entertain us with...
Oh... and... My answer to that poll would be "A"... These Orii are an interesting lot... I can't wait to find out more about them...
By the way... Did you know that there are actual conspiracy theories in the real world that say the Stargate TV series is all a cover up to keep a real life Stargate under wraps?... Would be cool if that theory was fact... Allthough I'd be a little scared if the Orii were real then too :D
Angel :P
"Marla Reed, Journalist wrote:Thanks for standing up for the actors."
That's a bit rich coming from you Marla (both the claim to be a journalist and the comment about standing up for the actors).
Considering you basically defamed Richard Dean Anderson recently on your own blog I am amazed you have the hide to say this. But funnily enough all your innuendo has been removed now.
Did your trail of lies and innuendo finally catch up with you Marla?
Joe, you've been asked a couple of times not to paint with the same brush all those who criticise some of the plot holes and irrational decisions that are being made. There are a lot of valid concerns being raised, mostly in regards to the TEAM aspect of the show we all love. But just about all of your recent blogs seem to blithly or, as is disappointingly the case, angrily dismiss those concerns as being voiced solely by wackos and trolls whose opinions are automatically not worth hearing. Yes, some fans go way over the line and attack the actors. You know what? It's been happening for years, at least as long as you've been with the show. It's unpleasant and uncalled for, but it's not likely to stop, no matter how often you plead. And it's a little discouraging that the producers (you) have only felt the need to speak out and defend the actor because he's "new". Perhaps more carefully chosen words would have included all of the cast (who have been subject to insulting, hurtful comments and accusations without studio support for years) rather than just Ben Browder. In any case, perhaps you guys could take your admittedly inexact recipe for writing a script and try to tweak it to include all four characters. You know, maybe try to whip up that increasingly elusive dish that used to be known as a team episode. That would, of course, necessarily mean larger amounts of those tasty ingredients, Daniel, Sam, and Teal'c. Or are you all out of those?
A-freakin-men!
Thanks for speaking up Joe. I know that a lot of fans really appreciate the fact that you back up your actors. They do occasionally read these boards, and it's very disheartening to see this kind of behavior.
It doesn't make anyone look good; it could possibly turn actors away from wanting to either join the cast or merely to guest star. Who would want to perform on a show that has a fandom that verbally abuses the actors?
Hey Joe, I've been rewatching a few of the early season 9 episodes and I have to say that the Cameron Mitchell character has grown on me. I think he was an excellent addition to the show. Rewatching the episodes has made me think that the season is just great. I really like the new bad guys in town and I thought that Vala made a great recurring character. I was happy to see Sam's character return as well. (I still can't believe how quickly Amanda Tapping returned to work, that was great :)) I really don't understand the qualms over Jack's departure or Sam not being in charge of Sg-1. I think it's pretty much inferred that Jack is somewhere in Washington (or am I way off here?) And Carter was at area 51 etc. etc. Well, I just wanted to say that so far I'm loving season 9 (though I think season 4 will always be my favorite b/c of Window of Opportunity :D) and I'm really looking forward to the second half. So keep up the great work and I hope there will be a season 10 and season 3 of Atlantis (which I also am really liking. I like how McKay is more involved now.) This is now a very long and rambling message, so I'll finish off by suggesting (again I think) Veronica Mars as a tv show to watch. Season 1 is now on DVD *hint, hint* :D
-Sarah
Thank you, Mr. Mallozzi, for setting some of those blowhards straight. I'm a Farscape fan and think both Browder and Black are fantastic additions to the show.
I know from all the Farscape stuff that Ben Browder is a smart, committed actor who'll put the show before his own agenda every day of the week.
I'm glad to see you take the opportunity and your take from the true insider's POV to let folks know that the show is honored to have Mr. Browder as part of its cast.
This 'scaper thanks you!!
Eva
Nice to see you defend Ben here. Pity that you couldn't be at the convention when the SamandJack fans booed poor Garwin Sanford when he was on the stage - too his face no less - because accord to them his character supposedly stalked Sam because he had her voice on his home computer.
LOL...they booed him??? Sheesh.
I'm a diehard Jack/Sam shipper and I thought that it was sweet Narim had her voice on his home computer...not sure how anyone could read that as stalking though.
Now if he staked out her house and followed her around using binoculars to watch her every move, THAT would be closer to being stalkerish. And a bit freaky too.
Mary Beth
Joe,
I find it rather puzzling that you react so strongly to the comments posted here or on any forum. I really do hope you keep in mind that the percentage of the viewing audience of Stargate SG-1 that posts on-line is very, very small. The same people may post often, in several places and be very vocal about their likes/dislikes, but I really don't believe they are representative of the viewing audience in general. If the entire viewing audience felt as strongly about the characters as the people who constantly post, *THEY* would be spending their time on-line posting. They aren't, so they don't.
I also wish you guys (the writers, etc.) would just write what you want to write and stop trying to please certain segments or please all segments of those (which isn't possible anyway) fans who express their views on-line. The vast majority of the the Daniel fans aren't going to stop watching the show as long as MS is there, the Browder fans who love him aren't going to stop watching, nor are the Sam fans. Those people who think Daniel is the show, or Sam is the show, or Mitchell is the show, are never going to get enough of their favorite character and you will never please them. So just forget about them, stop writing for a vocal focus group and start writing some good stories and get off the fence.
That's my 2 cents.
Thank you so much for sticking up for the actors, especially Ben Browder. He is an amazing actor and a great person, who deserves much more than most SG-1 fans have given him. I am so proud of him and love hearing about the dedication to his work and the show.
I hope you will stick with your visions of how you'd like the show run instead of caving in to what certain groups of fans want you to do. You can never please everyone 100% of the time but if you stick with your vision at least you'll have that respect.
I've also seen the new opening credits for the second half of the season and think that they are pristine.. lovely. Awesome work!!
I've got no beef with Browder, but I do with you and your partner in crime. The way you handled the exit of Jack O'Neill was absolutely insulting to the character and his fans and wrong on so many levels. What? We don't deserve to be told *on TV/in the story* where Jack went? Why he left? We get to see absolutely no character saying they miss Jack or even now mention his name? Not Landry, but his "kids" who knew him so well? Are you so focused on this "brand new wonderfully fun season with great stories and new characters" that you can't even have one of his friends occasionally mention Jack?
Horrible, horrible way to handle Jack's exit...just horribly pathetic Joe.
I had the same thoughts that you did about the gateworld poll. Very odd wording. For what it's worth I voted best SG-1 yet and that's high praise.
-Don
I also have no issue with Ben Browder. Joe, if that's what you're taking from the criticism I've read in the last blog, then you really are only hearing the extremists. The issues that most people are having with season nine is the unbalanced feel it has, primarily the result of paltry character development and interaction among the original members of SG-1. They ARE why I keep tuning in. End of story. They deserve better than to be shoved into the background, be it in the actual episodes, publicity-wise, and in the credits. And as was so passionately stated above, Richard Dean Anderson and Jack O'neill really deserve more respect. Very poorly done, especially considering how long his inevitable departure was known. Anyway, every character/actor has crazy fans. Don't be too encouraged by a few vocal ones, be they Ben Browder fans or any other. I don't know how better to express this, so I'll just say it would be nice if that show you're making now could show the slightest bit of respect for the show you made for the last eight years. That is, it would be nice if Carter, Daniel, and Teal'c acted like friends again. They could mention Jack once in awhile too.
LOL
OK the only thing I have to say about next year is PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE can you NOT make Mitchell an Ancient as well...be original maybe make him some decendent of like the Orii or something..
OK so a decendent of the Orii may not be as original as something else but...point LOL
I appreciate your desire to stick up for the actors, but please remember most of us are not wackos who confuse discussion of the show with personal attacks on the actors. I think you guys have generally done a good job balancing the individual storylines,and your explanation of the imbalance early in the season makes sense. On the other hand I do love seeing the TEAM together. Oh, and btw I LIKE stand- alone episodes.
My rating for S9--getting better.
Thanks for taking time to spend on GW.
jckfan55
"The types of stories we tell dictate who gets the focus in a particular episode. Because we wanted to establish new villains in season 9, and because said villains were linked to the Ancients"
But then shouldn't that made it a Jack driven season?
I like how SG-1 got away from character driven stories each week...sure there were a few but SG-1 IS a team and as they say..there's no I in team
:)
Well, I find the comments here at GW less harsh then at some places I've gone on the web. One recent one reguarding Michell was rather harsh.
"The charcter of Mitchell is so poorly written that Mitchell couldn't hit water if he fell out of a boat"
hey dude,
i honestly don't understand how people can be so critical about stargate well i'm sure a few could come up with a story but when it comes down to it you lot do a way better job than most. i'm so gutted that i'm unable to attend the armageddon pulp expo in auckland i really wanted to go to see the actors but i'm stuck at home on labour weekend becuase the roads are so busy but maybe next year..... i hope. congratulations on the award nominations hope that other dude wins. i sure hope that stargate atlantis dvd box set comes out here soon it would be great to see.
laters
Ok I found the whole statement and it was just some guys blog so...
"The charcter of Mitchell is so poorly written that Mitchell couldn't hit water if he fell out of a boat much less lead a team of seasoned SG-1 team members."
So I guess not so much concerning Ben as the writing of his character...opions are like...well you all know that one ;)
hi, joe,
i like mitchell/ben browder just fine.
landry's great too.
lam i'm still thinking over.
vala may leave the building now, but that's just my taste.
as a fan of the original sg1 (and a fan with specific tastes), i'd like to know --
*where's jack exactly? what's he doing? will any of his 'friends' ever mention him?
*why didn't sam get sg1 back (as commander) when she returned? did she lose interest? does she want more freedom to return to cassie or area 51, etc? sam is, basically, a competitive military officer: i thought she cared about her career.
*when will we find out the statis of sam and jack's relationship?
*is cameron mitchell really the best person (other than sam) to lead sg1? what are his credentials to lead such a regal team?
*will it ever be 'stated on the show' that sam and mitchell are co-leading?
i have more questions, but these are *my* predominate ones.
i'm not expecting you to answer these questions, joe, but i just wanted you to know that as a fan of the original team/show, these are the questions that are on my mind in season 9.
take care,
sally :)
I don't tend to speak up very often and heck, I don't even know if you read these comments, but I'll give this a shot anyway. This is for both Joe and fellow fans.
Firstly, thank you for sticking up for the integrity of the actors. I am so tired of actor bashing. I am tired of character bashing.
What I think most of us would like to see are some great team episodes where everyone has something to do and where the characters have a chance to shine with their given strengths. Ideally, the episodes would have an even distribution among the main cast.
However, stories fall as they fall. Character focus isn't going to end up computed like a mathematical equation. Please be true to the stories and the characters and they should fall naturally. To do otherwise cheapens the story and hurts the characters. If that means tuning us out, so be it. Instead of worrying about segments of the fandom, just write good material and everything else will follow. You don't need to be told that you'll never please everyone.
We all have our favorite characters. We all have our own opinions. But why get rude, mean, even brutal? We're all watching the same show, right? Instead of fighting, can't we just understand we don't agree and throw our support into the show as a whole?
I just don't get why we can't enjoy the show and have a good time.
There have been several very relevant points made that I have to agree with here:
Like others, I too have no issue with BB, and I agree Joe, you should not paint with a broad brush and just address the completely negative as if there are no other comments (this is disturbingly similar to the way the introduction of a certain other very controversial issue/character was handled in S7 -all of TPTB addressed only the extremists and not a word was ever said about all of the legitimate concerns and it is detrimental to TPTB to address extremists and stay completely silent on the legitimate concerns as if that portion of the fan base does not exist.
There are many, many valid and legitimate posters here, and elsewhere, that are making valid and legitimate criticisms and voicing concerns because a large group feel the show has taken a turn for the worse with some of what has been happening. A lot of these people are people who have been watching the show for years now, people who, as was said above, helped to keep the show on the air this long and people who do make up a rather large piece of the current rating points.
In particular the command issue - it's not that I (or many of the others who are critical of Mitchell) dislike the character or are taking potshots at BB -- the concern is with the fact that this is a new guy, out of nowehere that we have never seen, or even heard of, before. A guy that has never ever SEEN a Stargate before, never been off-world, never dealt with an alien, a guy that said he wanted to "LEARN" from the best, agreed to serve UNDER Carter when he first joined the TEAM, and the list goes on and on.
The criticisms and concerns are around the issue of why is he co-leading SG1 with someone like Carter who has so much more experience and who was put in as THE SOLE LEADER OF SG1 IN S8 BY TPTB. If it was the intent to have this new guy be co-leader then why not make him worthy of the slot by at least showing that he already had been through the Gate, or something, anything. So far we have seen very, very little to indicate why (we have been told once of his superior leadership qualities but talk is cheap as they say). Also, there have been those that are concerned with this new guy being there to show the excitement, the newness, etc. Well so far I have to say I agree with the posters that are a little tired of this wide-eyed 12 year old act. BB is the oldest member of the cast, clearly because of that Mitchell is a soldier that has been around a while, why is Mitchell acting like a 12 year old in his excitement, if it's to put a little Jack in him it's not working - Jack was irreverant but at least for the most part he acted his age, Mitchell just looks childish. IMO, it would have been better if we got a mature soldier who acted his age and acted to his background of a supposed superior leader of a fighter pilot squadron.
The way he is written is the main problem, there are too many contradictions saying he should not be co-leading, he should be a team member who is there to LEARN from the BEST and maybe one day he can lead, one day when he shows he can handle it and one day when he shows he deserves it - right now Carter does - not Mitchell (and I say Carter because TPTB put her in as sole leader of SG1 in S8, she is on the team, has been for 9 years now, she is a Lt. Colonel, and she is the LOGICAL choice, heck even though they can't do it cuz they are not military, Teal'c and Daniel deserve it more than Mitchell does as written).
I wonder, with the backlash of this co-leader decision, how on earth the command issue in S10, if there is one, will be handled.
Just a suggestion, perhaps you could give Mitchell "command of SG-22 (and follow [his] adventures in another spin-off series)", instead of trying to push a square peg into a round hole as "a nice compromise".
And I am still looking for that ever elusive answer to the question of what he brings to the team that was not already there when it was Carter, Teal'c and Daniel? I also agree with the posters that are still clamouring for the TEAM - that is why this show has been successful for 8 years - the TEAM. All of TPTB have been saying "we're going back to the roots" - what roots? The roots are the TEAM and thus far we still have the same thing we have had since S7 - the team separated with maybe 2 of them together at any one time - where is the TEAM?
Where are the 3 original characters who are supposed to be friends for the past 9 years - I see shadows of them but that's it -there is no cohesiveness, there is no camaraderie, there is no feeling, there is NO team, thus far it's just a group of people who obviously know each other but do not act like friends of 9 years who have saved each others butts hundreds of times. I also agree with the poster that said that the three main characters of Carter, Teal'c and Daniel, "deserve better than to be shoved into the background, be it in the actual episodes, publicity-wise, and in the credits". They are three of the major reasons this show is still on the air. As another poster said above, they "are, and have been your bread & butter" for the last 8 years, don't forget that.
Binkpmmc
My we are cranky, Joe. Bet on red next time.
Love Browder, Farscape, and Stargate.
Miss RDA/Jack. MISS HIM.Missed him since season 3.
Would like to see villians who are not the all-powerful type. Can't relate to the Ori. Loved the Goa'uld. How about some really advanced humans up to no good? At least the Goa'uld were invested in humanity and a more or less human perspective and frailty.
Want Season 22....
Stargatebabe
Thanks for a great season 9. I have absolutely loved every episode. Ben Browder has been a great addition to an already incredible cast. I'm on pins and needles waiting to hear the announcement of Season 10.
I think many of the comments were by a few trolls posting numerous times; taking advantage of the fact that you can post anonymously and are unmoderated.
From what I’ve seen on the boards most people seem to like Mitchell and want to see more character development and team interaction.
The new SG-1 credits also seem to have been well received overall, with only a few of the more, um, *over zealous* fans in the previous comments really freaking out about them.
Em
Em said:
"From what I’ve seen on the boards most people seem to like Mitchell..."
and
"The new SG-1 credits also seem to have been well received overall..."
Really? Have you actually looked around other forums, read posts by more than 2 or 3 people? I have, and while I agree that some people are happy, there's a whole lot of different people posting a whole lot of different complaints regarding the credits and Mitchell.
I understand that the characer-based segments of fandom are easy to dismiss out of hand (whether their complaints are valid or not), but there are alot of complaints about the cohesiveness of SG-1. And I'm talking about after "the band is back together".
Anyway, it's easy for Browder/Mitchell fans to be happy right now. Aside from the fact that the character has been totally useless so far, he has been getting every bit of the press and praise from the producers and the media. I don't think many people hate Ben Browder. But it has all been a little much; it's not helped by the fact that so far all of the bluster has been for what's turned out to be a weakly written, superfluous addition to an already complete team of extreme experts.
For the life of me, I don't know why Mitchell wasn't simply the new fourth. He could have had a whole, easy-to-swallow, built in character arc where he's learning from SG-1, training to be the future of the SGC, the future leader of SG-1 even. There could have been tons of little, very teamy scenes where Daniel explains something about the ancients or Goa'uld; where Carter teaches him the basics of certain technologies or little things about leadership that she learned from O'neill; where Teal'c helps Cameron when it comes to the Jaffa or, gasp, teaches him how to fight. The character of Mitchell just seems shoe-horned into his current place in the show. Hopefully, things will get better.
Brad M.
I find this site takes on a very negative slant about everything - for example when they talk about the ratings, its all doom and gloom. But when you go on other sites, the same ratings are seen in a more positive light.
I so agree with the poll - ridiculous wording - if I didn't know better I'd swear it's worded to guarantee certain results.
As for season 9 - outstanding! I can't believe you managed to revamp an already terrific show and make it even better.
I love it - don't change a thing!!
TAB
I totally agree about those poll options. I couldn't even vote because the choices were so horribly skewed. :(
About the Ben/Mitchell thing: I think people are just pissed off that he isn't Jack. I haven't seen anything that would lead me to believe he's a bad actor portraying a dumb character. In fact, everything I've seen has been quite awesome, and season 9 is shaping up to be one of my favorites. And this is coming from a person who thought SG-1 peaked in season 3. So whatever you guys are doing, keep it up. I might not agree with you folks all the time, but I know good TV when I see it. ;)
I too am liking mitchell so far. Daniel's mentor relationship with him is the one thing about his character that has stuck with me. So, as long as the Daniel/Mitchell dynamic continues in the secnod part of the season, I'll be happy. However if Mitchell starts taking stories away from Daniel I'll be angry. This is Daniel's story, moreso now than ever. He's the only character left from the movie. If Mitchell starts taking over, then I'll turn the whole show off, just like I did in season six. Oh, and I have no interest at all in watching Mitchell and Carter. If the second half curse is going to happen this year, I'll be mad. Keep Sam and Mitchell where they belong. As the supporting cast for Daniel.
Yes, as long as the script elves stay hard at work in their little workshop, then I'll be a happy camper. This has been the best season since Jonathan Glassner left. I didn't think that these particular PTB had it in them.
Anonymous wrote:
<< too am liking mitchell so far. Daniel's mentor relationship with him is the one thing about his character that has stuck with me. So, as long as the Daniel/Mitchell dynamic continues in the secnod part of the season, I'll be happy. However if Mitchell starts taking stories away from Daniel I'll be angry. This is Daniel's story, moreso now than ever. He's the only character left from the movie. If Mitchell starts taking over, then I'll turn the whole show off, just like I did in season six. Oh, and I have no interest at all in watching Mitchell and Carter. If the second half curse is going to happen this year, I'll be mad. Keep Sam and Mitchell where they belong. As the supporting cast for Daniel.<<
Well, there you go; the old talking points about Stargate being Daniel's story. Yep, keep Mitchell and Sam down on the farm where they belong. Mitchell is only accepted by many Daniel fans because he isn't taking storylines away from Daniel, because he seems to respect Daniel and is nice to him (unlike that old meany Jack). For many of the Danielites, Mitchell can only be liked in terms of how he relates to Daniel. Heaven forbid, though, that he should be given any more airtime than Daniel -- watch out.
For every poster like this who maintains they will stop watching the show if Mitchell outshines Daniel, I'm sure there is a viewer with the opposite view -- that if the 2nd half of S9 features Daniel as prominently as the first half did, they will stop watching the show.
Gotta laugh...it's all about *me, me, me* and my favorite character. I agree with the poster who suggested you ignore all these obsessed fans and just do what the heck you want.
Xayeidemon said...
I totally agree about those poll options. I couldn't even vote because the choices were so horribly skewed. :(
About the Ben/Mitchell thing: I think people are just pissed off that he isn't Jack.
Is that like those fans who were just so pissed off in S6 because Jonas wasn't Daniel, or is this different?
Anonymous said...
Yes, as long as the script elves stay hard at work in their little workshop, then I'll be a happy camper. This has been the best season since Jonathan Glassner left. I didn't think that these particular PTB had it in them.****
Goodness, you're not as anonymous as you would think.
By Anonymous:
Is that like those fans who were just so pissed off in S6 because Jonas wasn't Daniel, or is this different?
Yeah, I'd say it's about the same, only the railing is coming from different camps this time.
People like who they like, and I'm not going to fault them for it, but I don't remember the Jonas haters ever being Corin Nemec haters. There was a line they didn't cross, and I respect that. At least that's what I saw. I'm sure there were a few immature individuals out there who ragged on the actor as well, but I didn't see it.
Joe, I think it's a good thing that this is your last blog. Generally speaking, I think it's a bad idea for writers of a TV show to do blogs. You don't owe the fans anything of the sort and it creates a sense of "familiarity" for some fans that takes them to weird places. You also say things that (I have to think you know will) get fans upset and you have to know you are going to get some very unconstructive, negative, personal feedback. Can't see how you could enjoy that.
Anyway, I think you ought to keep your distance from the fans, go with your vision and your writing talent will speak for itself one way or the other.
For the record, some people are obviously misreading Joe's last blog entry. He does not state that it will be his last blog.
**xayeidemon said...
Yeah, I'd say it's about the same, only the railing is coming from different camps this time.
People like who they like, and I'm not going to fault them for it, but I don't remember the Jonas haters ever being Corin Nemec haters. There was a line they didn't cross, and I respect that. At least that's what I saw. I'm sure there were a few immature individuals out there who ragged on the actor as well, but I didn't see it.**
I wasn't even around in S6 and I still see people at this point in time (3 years later) making nasty, negative comments about CN (I must say mainly the Uber Daniel fans) no less nasty than any comments about BB. IMO, some of them still cross that line.
Ragging on BB now is no different than what's been done in the past to MS, AT, CN and to RDA. Different camps - same mentality.
Joe, thanks for picking up the slant that Gateworld has everywhere.
Whether it's the ratings (all this year it's been SG1 is doing badly, yet when SGA drops a point we have excuses like hurricanes stopping people watch SGA); episode reviews (how can you seriously review Abyss and not mention Daniel in the entire review?); to those of us who try to post in the Ask JM thread and are frequently frustrated because any question in we which is not raving about Sam, or Sam and Jack, is edited or deleted. Apparently asking too many questions about Vala, Mitchell or Daniel (and I'd classify more than 2 questions per page as too many according to Gateworld), we are apparently spamming the thread and annoying you.
Seeing this is the behavior of the place, and it's owner gets rewarded with a job at MGM, no wonder TPTB got a slanted view of what was popular.
Joe,
Hi, my name is Aaron Hall, and I'm just some random guy in Ohio who has watched Stargate SG-1 (and now Atlantis) since the beginning. It was fantastic then, and it's fantastic now, too! You guys have done an excellent job with the shows, and I trust that you will continue to do the same. I know you take support and criticism hand in hand from what I've read, but don't let them get to you... I've learned that misery loves company, and some people whine so much that they start to drag others down with them. All the actors do a great job, and I can't wait to see the back half of the season and season 10. Keep it up!
Hi Joe,
First of all thank you very much for your words about Ben, you're winning Scapers' hearts with them :)
Sorry to hear you didn't win anything in Vegas, but they're saying that these who are not lucky with gambling, are lucky with love! :D
I re-watched The Ties That Bind yesterday evening and even if it was for 10th or 15th time I had exactly as much fun as for the first time, maybe even more. More episodes like this one in season 10, please, with the alternative original team (Vala, Daniel, Teal'c and Mitchell)!!! :)
Dear oh deary me, Joe. Where does this leave you now? When your very own special pet fans bite the hand that feeds them and the only places that are vocally enjoying the new season and discussing it exhaustively and positively are the places you have so gone out of your way to brand as the rat bag fringe and the "vocal minority". Guess you'd better bet hope they're not such a minority now, eh?
Thanks in any case for calling Gateworld on their ridiculous, negative poll, I was going to do it myself but thought, what's the point? Gateworld has been encouraged to think themselves more important than any other fansite and whose fault is that anyway? Somethings come back to bite you in the bum don't you think? What EVER happened to "Trust TPTB"?
Interesting isn't it how the "fans" currently tearing the season to shreds haven't been moderated with the draconian thoroughness that the Daniel fans have been treated with over the years on this charming site. And they never advocated the show's cancellation as seems to be the request de jour round these parts recently. So anyhoo, I voted "Best Ever" in their silly little poll myself because they really didn't leave me any other option, though actually I prefer 2 and 3 by just a whisker. Ya gotta wonder at such ingratitude, really.
Have a nice day Joe. It feels kind of weird to actually agree with you, you know?
Hi Joe,
So pleased and thankful you responded to the saddening trend on the previous blog thread. Thank you for putting things straight and defending the actors. In an ideal world they shouldn't need defending and we would be praising them and yourselves for the hard work and commitment they give to a show we all love and enjoy. I hate to see poeple be ungrateful for the wonderful entertainment you guys provide and for giving us the story.That's not to say people aren't allowed to have an opinion and criticise the show but at the end of the day if a show turns you off then turn the tv off and find something else instead.
I used to love the x-files but as the series went on I found that I couldn't watch it any more so I didn't. I don't blame anyone for that. The showrunners crafted a series they wanted and I'm sure many millions enjoyed it but I left it because for me it lost something. That doesn't make me right or wrong- it just means it lost my interest. I don't though go to x-files boards lamenting this and criticising anyone for my own opinion. I was sad to lose something I loved but instead I just went on to find soemthing different. I still tuned in at some points to check to see if the quality was better so I didn't give up on it completely. It's up to everyone to look inside themselves and see if they want to wait and see if the show improves in their own opinion or walk away and find something else to love.
I know we all invest ourselves in these shows as an audience but if one thing being a fan of Farscape has taught me is that the story of any show I watch isn't mine. I don't own it. I don't tell it. If I did then that series would suck! lol What I'm here for is the showrunners story. What they are giving us. I don't want my preferences or my ideas to influence it because it's not my story. If I did then I'd do fanfic and get it out of my system that way. (Please don't make me do fanfic cause it could get ugly as anyone who has read my sock operas will atest to. *g*)
Also I have to mention this quote-
Feel free to complain about the direction of the Mitchell character if you like (although, as I said, we've just started exploring him)
Yes we have "just started exploring him" I wish some folks would remember that we've had 8 seasons of the other main cast and they have had 8 seasons worth of episodes and back story. Cameron so far has had oooh just over a dozen single eps! If he's to be part of the team we need to find out what makes him tick and get to know him. For those in the UK you have only got to know him for 2 episodes so your viewpoint is even more difficult to form. I look at it from this point- many people were screaming "we hate Vala, ick ick ick" Joe was saying to us- "trust us you will end up loving her". So when she goes suddenly people are now shouting "bring back Vala- we adore her".I think the same will be true of Mitchell. He's had less screen time and development than Vala from my humble point of view so I look forward to finding out more about him *and* also seeing the other characters story too.
I love SG1 and I adore the whole team element but also love each character for their strengths and weaknesses. That is what makes them human rather than supermen and women.
I look forward to the rest of the story, to seeing more of the characters and what your collective hard work has crafted for us.
Thank you guys and gals.
BritAngie
I mean this in the nicest possible sense, but I think if Stargate had carried on in the way it had been going, it would have undoubtedly jumped the shark.
By completely revamping Stargate, it almost feels like the writers have taken a shotgun to said shark. The new show is fantastic, and quite frankly, I can't get enough.
The only criticism I have is that the Orii seem a little bit too powerful, and somewhat lacking in a sense of humour. At least with the Goa'uld, we knew that they weren't Gods, but people with a good grasp of technology (and had snakes in their heads.)
Overall, season 9 makes me look forward to sitting down in front of my TV each week.
Keep up the great work, Joe.
No personal attacks from me--just my thoughts on a show that I really like.
The 2.0 rating is made up of many SG1 fans who keep watching inspite of what we are seeing. Why? Because we keep hoping--hoping to see something of SG1.
I now know that will not happen and will not watch the rest of season 9. That is how Stargate is in trouble--because that 2.0 will drop as the fans begin to loose hope and drop away.
I would be willing to bet there will be NO season 10 because $ talks and with fans gone, so will the $.
It is not just the disjointed "team" but the oh so obvious "political" tone of the show. A mirror of todays world? I can watch the news for that.
I will soon own all 8 seasons--season 8 was and will be what I consider the end of a great sci-fi show.
I really hope that Shanks, Judd and Tapping--get out before all that anyone remembers is season 9.
For that matter--I hope the new guys do too!
Hi Joe,
Thanks so much for defending the actors! It’s amazing how mean spirited people can be. Throw in anonymity and a little self-righteous indignation and you’ve got the makings of some pretty ugly behavior. Sad really.
I’m new to SG1. Only started watching this year when Ben Browder came to the series. So I guess it’s easy for me to tune in to simply enjoy the ride. I can enjoy the process of watching the “band get back together” while I figure out who all the characters are. I’m not invested in what WAS and can enjoy the stories for what they ARE. For me, Vala was a scream and I’m really looking forward to seeing her come back to the show. (I just re-watched “The Ties that Bind” and loved every minute of it!) I’m looking forward to seeing the entire team in action, and to seeing how Mitchell’s background and leadership abilities will come into play in the future.
It’s not easy to revamp a long established show. Trolls don’t make it any easier. It’s that “mine, mine, mine” childish behavior that I find the most annoying. Temper tantrums and spewing personal attacks at the actors because their custom made show isn’t being aired. SG1 has committed the cardinal sin of changing. Sad! In this atmosphere it doesn’t matter how Ben plays Mitchell, trolls won’t be able to appreciate his talents. Their loss!!
Apparently TPTB felt new blood was needed. And maybe the trolls would be less hostile if the new guy came in simply as a team member, while one of the more established characters took the lead. Whatever. Make no mistake about it. Ben Browder is a very talented and award winning actor, and he makes an excellent addition to the cast of SG1.
IM Valacb and i think BEN is great
AHEM!!! Joe??
You do realize that you are putting your Christmas list at SERIOUS risk by having recommended that people complain to ME?
Just thought you ought to know.
On a good note, you are making up for the extra hassle by helping with the naughty/nice list...
As ever yours,
Santa
p.s. I do hope there is a season 10, and keep up the good work.
Thanks for pointing out the season 9 poll phony questions... I didn't vote in this one because I like S9 a great deal but not more than the other 8 seasons.
Should have included another notch at least - a simple 'very good' which did not deny quality to the other 8 seasons would have been nice.
You know, Joe, I think that one of the problems Ben Browder is having is his lack of physical presence. I mean, he's certainly fit and in great shape, but he really pales in comparison to everyone else on the show. One of Richard Dean Anderson's biggest strengths was the fact that he made O'neill look like Teal'c's equal. Right now, Michael Shanks is bigger, has more of a physical presence than Ben Browder. Of course that's true with Chris Judge too. But even Landry and Carter carry more of the screen when they're in the scene with Ben. He just looks so danm little all the time that it's hard to buy into the fact that he's colead.
Honestly, I am thisclose to giving up on Gateworld because of the very obvious biases. Lately, everything here seems to be painted negatively. I never studied journalism, but aren't reporters supposed to portray the facts of both sides of the story, keeping their own opinions out of it? So why is it when I'm reading their articles I often get the feeling that, oh, SG-1 is a ho-hum show now and that a 1.8-2.0 rating is bad? I was under the impression those are *great* ratings, especially during summer. Why does it seem that the official magazine will only post letters saying how awful the new season is without posting balancing letters about how great the season is, even though I know many people who love it? I can see it already, if we get a Season 10, the announcement will say: "Despite the fact that no one is watching or liking the show anymore, TPTB are giving it one last shot to win back their audience." *rolls eyes*
It almost feels at times like the "power factor" of being the biggest Stargate site on the internet has gone to people's heads and now everyone is supposed to think the same way they do. I am not a blind sheep, nor can my opinions be swayed like one, thank you very much. All those attempts do is annoy me and lower my opinion of the one trying to sway me.
I've been watching the series since it began. I love Mitchell and think he was introduced into the series extremely well. I love Daniel. I love Teal'c. I didn't care for Sam much the past few seasons, but so far I love her this season. I don't miss the ship. I love Vala. I love Lam. I love Landry. I love the new enemies. I only rarely miss Jack, probably because RDA had been backing away from the series for years before this. I think all the actors are doing a tremendous job this season (and that includes Ben Browder, who I like in the role of Mitchell so much that I've begun watching Farscape). All my friends and family are also adoring Season 9 and think it's the best in years.
Perhaps those opinions aren't the ones being promoted as "popular" here, but I'm proud to say they're *my* opinions and that only a change in the quality of the show will change that opinion.
Stargate is a different show than it was in previous seasons, and not everyone will like it. If they don't, fine, just stop watching (although why they need to continue slandering the show, its actors, and its writers/producers so viciously instead of leaving, I will never understand). But others, like me, will like the new show just as much, if not more, than the old show. I will keep watching Stargate until I don't like the show anymore. It's that simple.
Keep up the great work, Joe! Rest assured there *are* many people who love this season, even if we aren't as vocal about it as some others are.
I've been watching SG1 since season 4 and went back to watch season 1-3 on DVD and really love the show. Season 9 in my opinion lacked a send off for Jack. We never really found out that he became head of Homeworld Security or even go a promotion to Major General. All we got was a backyard shot of Hank and Jack where Jack talks about signing papers to sell his house, etc. Then he shows up in Daniel's office with another star on his shoulder. I understand his committment to his daughter and I support him 100%, and actually praise him for it, but most of us watched SG1 because of RDA. He was after all the "Star" of the show to me the writers messed up big time in sending him off that way.
Ben is doing a great job but I see to many "O'Neillisms" in his dialogue. He really needs his own idenity, not a shadow of Jack.
Would love some more 'off world' activity - to me that's what the show was suppose to be about. Traveling to other planets and getting into trouble! It was fun to watch.
Can't really say if I will watch a season 10 if there is one. Nine right now isn't doing much for me.
I do hope that SGA is renewed for Season 3, I'm really enjoying that show a great deal.
Thanks for your Blogs, I really enjoy them and all the hard work you guys do to write and direct the show!
Online factions remain firmly entrenched in their customary views. Their opinions about season nine, the lack of character focus, and the new characters themselves are as predictable as ever. The question you should ask yourselves, Joe, is what faction is more representative of the casual viewers? Those who like the "new", or those who liked what came before? Those who like Sam, or not? Those who think Jack was holding SG-1 back, or those who thought Jack was SG-1?
Oh for Christ's sake. So now GateWorld is what's wrong with Stargate? You people are unbelieveable. To the person who thinks that reporting is "opinion free", what kind of crack are you freebasing? No media is unbiased. None. Not GateWorld, not those fine, rational fans at Our Stargate, not at the Sony forums, not on the nightly news, not in the newspapers you read or the magazines you purchase. You know what, and this will apparently be a shock to some of you, Joe's blog here at GateWorld is the single biggest propaganda tool the producers of Stargate have. He will say nothing but good things about all aspects of the show, tell you all how wonderful the new actors are (even if they're really not), proclaim this as SG-1's finest hour (even if it's really not), try to assuage your concerns about command, RDA, the ship, whatever, with placting words, a slightly humorous tone, and wee bit of misdirection (notice how people are talking about the poll instead of Ben Browder's poor reception?). That's why he posts here, that's why all of the interviews given by everyone say exactly the same thing right now. Sure, it's been this way in the past, but season nine has seen all parties invovled spew off the same tired comments by rote so often that it's actually begun to hurt the show. Right now, nobody invovled with the show seems to have an independent or original thought outside of the studio message. And that's the most telling aspect of season nine so far.
Ya know, I have to admit, this IS getting kinda funny. What, Joe spoke out against people bashing the actors, so now you're moving on to bash Gateworld? LOL! If Darren and David are so "obviously" biased against Stargate, why in hell would they continue to maintain one of the biggest online fansites for it? Why not say, "The show is crap, we quit" and then fold up shop, taking the news section, the interviews, the Omnipedia, the forums and these blogs with them? Probably because- get this- they still like the show. They wouldn't be here if they didn't and they wouldn't go through all the troubles they do (and the flak they take) if their hearts weren't completely in this.
And frankly, if Joe had any doubts about the integrity of the site and the people who run it, he wouldn't be here. One complaint about one poll does not a flaming condemnation make.
Darren already admitted he screwed up on the poll, so why act as if it's part of some huge conspiracy to brainwash people into thinking the show sucks? First off, that isn't what he thinks (unless he lied in his posts, too) and second, people aren't that stupid. Sheep? The only sheep I see are the ones posting their vitriol under the safety of "Anonymous". Must be gelded sheep, at that.
You don't read well, do you? Not a single person said that GateWorld is what's wrong with Stargate.
But you are proving what has been said repeated. GateWorld is extraordinarily negative. Seems to me that YOU need to put down the crack pipe, and trying reading again.
Here's an original thought, take that paranoid stick out of your butt, and TRY being civil.
Man, it's too funny to see Shadowmaat defending the objectivity/positiveness of GW. I tried to give the GW forum another try this year since I heard it was no longer open season on Daniel fans there, but Shadowmaat's negative spewing about the show in every freaking thread drove me away after 1 day. I don't think she's exactly in a position to judge what's negative. And one does have to ask, since you posed the question, why you don't quit? Catch a clue: it's a new show, and Jonass ain't ever coming back.
Anonymous wrote:
*Joe's blog here at GateWorld is the single biggest propaganda tool the producers of Stargate have.....That's why he posts here, that's why all of the interviews given by everyone say exactly the same thing right now. Sure, it's been this way in the past, but season nine has seen all parties invovled spew off the same tired comments by rote so often that it's actually begun to hurt the show. Right now, nobody invovled with the show seems to have an independent or original thought outside of the studio message. And that's the most telling aspect of season nine so far.*
I'm with you on that. Good comments.
I have no problem with Ben Browder as an actor - I quite liked Farscape. I do have a problem with Sg1 season 9. It incorporates hackneyed writing (a crass introduction for the new leader of sg1, a set of unbelievably tedious new villains and a serious lack of joined up thinking about character interaction!) with a group of actors who seem to have lost any sense of ensemble acting! Direction seems to be casual to the point of sloppy. Even the damn CGI no longer seems good! Hey - maybe it's the drip down effect of Bush as president or maybe the whole production team has got a little self satisfied or taken on too much with Atlantis as well! Anyway I'be watching a couple more but unless they improve radically - I think this show is a dead man walking!
I've been afraid to comment before this, as things tend to get very rough in here, but I'm really enjoying the direction that the show is going in. I love how the show seems to have a new life to it, and the new characters really help (though I miss Jack *prays for more guest appereances*).
SG-1 and SGA are my favorite shows right now, and I hope there will be more seasons of both!
Umm. . . that's all. *disappears back into the ether*
wow, so many topics
yes, i agree that the cam bashing is OTT...but why is it that only Cam (with the exception of David deluise) getting defended while other characters who are bashed to stuffings getting ignored? Hey, i understand why DAvid is on the protected list...i'm sure it's also the reason such an unpopular charcter came back for so many repeat performances. but Cam???
Yeah, I know, it's the party line and one must protect one's bread and butter mustn't one??
Nothing personal against Ben, he's just an actor doing his job and doing a good job of it...but well the selling is a bit much. Like someone on the forum said, stop trying to convince me that he's so great, show me and let me make up my own mind
as to the polls...i don't vote in them all that much largely because, well in regards to the s9 one, the season was so massively uneven that every response works.
avalon came through like a clumsy pilot, origin was cringeworthy, ties that bind was just a cheap immitation of farscape (complete with leather), beachead was....eh, it served the plot arc. Ex Deus was rather silly and only The Powers that Be and 4th Horseman stood out as something worth rewinding and rewatching.
While I did get a chuckle from Vala, she bored me. It's a shame that claudia's talent was put to waste on such a shallow creation.
I think, at the end of the day, I'm rather like Teal'c...silently shaking my head at the silliness of Cam and wondering when the pre-game show will end so that season nine can really get started.
Last year it took Stargate 12 episodes go get thier groove. This year it might take even longer. Hey, who knows, keep this trend up and by season ten it'll take the show until season 11 to get moving.
Ooh, and too bad about Wynn. Last time we were in vegas we stayed at another hotel further down on the strip and honestly, i found my local Holiday Inn's to be better.
hey Joe!
Just a question, do you watch battlestar galactica?
Nah, just wondering 'cause I'm all new to that show and I think the characters are amazing, reel, human. I think that's what's missing in Stargate. I mean, after everything our heroes have been through... why aren't there any breakdowns? or cries? or anything?
Looks like after each ep, they forget what just happened to them. I would love, for instance, Samantha to be as real as that. She's been through ordeals people can't deal with. The fact she can, destroy all the authenticity of the show itself.
Sam was just an example of course. But I really think that's the only thing messing up with my two favorite shows that are sg1 and Atlantis.
Though I'm not such a fan now. I don't like the direction of sg1, and I just don't like Cameron and the worst is the lack of Samantha Carter and Teal'c. I don't know what you guys are doing with those characters but I'd rather you kill them off instead of letting them in the back of the screen this way. Sam has become useless and that's such a shame. Especially because Amanda is capable of so much!
Anyway, that was just my personal point of view, I hope nobody's gonna jump on me (it's so hard telling your mind without people feeling personnaly attacked).
Good luck with the rest of the show, I, personnaly will feed on Atlantis (which is remarquable).
J.
ps: Have you ever had a script written by a woman (in 9 years of stargate and 2 years of atlantis) ?
Is that like those fans who were just so pissed off in S6 because Jonas wasn't Daniel, or is this different?
Same mindset, different agenda. The Daniel fans were pretty much told that the weren't real fans if they didn't embrace the new guy and Trust the Powers that Be. Go compare some names of posters now to then. Some of the biggest critics of Mitchell and season 9 were all about embracing the new guy back then and bashing the naughty fans that didn't.
I think that Joe's Blog is one of the most skewed places on the internet as well, but not because of Joe's postings. You can't take it as representative of the fandom's opinions because for all we know, the same two or three people are posting over and over again annoymously, agreeing with themselves.
Every poll that I have seen rates the episodes and Mitchell pretty high in likability.
I have seen comments from across the board about people wondering why Jack wasn't given more of a sendoff. I think they want to keep their options open depending on whether they can get RDA back for a few episodes. Not very satisfactory but that's what I think is going on.
I am reserving judgement on season 9 until the last episode, but so far so good.
I like Mitchell and think he needs an opportunity to grow as a character for me to love him as I do the others.
I like Jack, but he is gone, maybe for good so I can either embrace the characters that are there or give up watching.
I like Sam, but she can't be everything on the team--she is the science specialist and frankly, the few times they wrote her in charge of SG-1 in season 8 didn't come off well to me--my opinion only--YMMV.
I love that Daniel got a chance to shine in the early part of season 9. About time in my opinion.
I liked CB for the energy and fun she brought to Vala. I don't want to see her every episode but a few more apprearances would be fun.
Landry grows on me every new episode--those who are not liking him should hang in there for a few more--by Beachhead, I was really liking his style.
Everyone has the right to express a positive or negative opinion about the show and to keep watching. But I guess I am really confused as to why someone would keep doing something that would seemingly cause them so much unhappiness.
Those who do not like season 9 seem to be really trying to give the idea that EVERYONE hates Mitchell or Vala or whatever. It is not true. The ratings are good; I read on GW forum that the loyal audience is not the biggest influence on the ratings--it is the casual viewer that tunes in now and then. And season 9 got some of the best pro reviews that Stargate has ever had.
My brother and his buddies who are in the "coveted male demo" gave up on Stargate a couple of seasons back. They started watching season 9 due to Claudia Black and stopped after her episodes. Maybe that happened with several people because there was a slight drop in the ratings after she left. Who knows?
What we individually think is the greatest thing about Stargate will be someone else's least favorite thing. It seems that some people are trying here to convince Joe that what they dislike about the show (Mitchell, Vala, no Jack, etc)is leading to its demise when the ratings and the polls don't bear that out.
Maybe they think that if they say it over and over enough times, it will become true....
...Its been 10 episodes! You people need to get a grip on reality and stop judging a character, a season and an entire TV series on the fact that you haven't warmed up to a character in 10 episodes! I didn't warm up to Teal'c immediatly did that up me off the show? HELL NO! 7 years later I'm still here and I love it just as much as I did then! (I only saw from the beginning of season 3)
I will say loud and proud that I love Mitchell and I have done since the first ep he was in. And no, before someone comments saying I am bias, I had never seen him in Farscape because I have never seen Farscape and no I don't hate Jack...I love him, I do!
I understand that there has to be a particular focus on Mitchell to establish his character which I am OK with. There has been plenty of Daniel in Season 9 and this I can also understand as the whole dynamic of the show has changed and Daniel is the only character that has been established since the film and has the strongest ties with the direction that the stories are going in. Teal'c has had much more to do this season the any other of the first half of the other season. The lack of Sam could be based on the very logical fact that Amanda Tapping missed 5 episodes because he has just had a baby or in all your moaning and bitching did some people forget that?
And the team centric episodes haven't been a major factor since season 4/5 and I fell that the writers are really trying to make the episodes more team centered this season. How many team centred episodes were there in season 6 or 7? Not that many. You all need to stop thinking so much and sit back and watch Stargate enjoying it for what it is...A good, well written, well performed Science Fiction show and god knows there aren't many of them on TV!
gem simpson said:
"You all need to stop thinking so much and sit back"
Yes, just don't think about things too hard, otherwise none of them will make any sense. Silly me for not realizing that STUPID was the desired demographic for this show. Well, at least it apparently is anymore. More's the pity.
Jesse
Freshie (catchy fake name for someone who is too cowardly to use their real name when attacking people) said:
"Considering you basically defamed Richard Dean Anderson recently on your own blog I am amazed you have the hide to say this."
Joe stood up for co-workers, I stood up for a friend who had an experience with RDA that made me lose some respect for him. If you think I wouldn't say this to RDA's face, you are wrong. That's why, unlike your cowardice, I put my name on my words.
RDA is good actor, a good father and dedicated to the environment, all very admirable qualities. I don't miss him on the show because I never liked the direction he took Jack O'Neill in. IMHO many of his choices ruined the character for me.
I wish him well in his life past being on Stargate SG-1.
Sorry if you have a problem with that.
"But funnily enough all your innuendo has been removed now."
I have no clue what you are talking about. My post on my LJ is still there for anyone to read. I did disable comments because I felt it was time to move on.
"Did your trail of lies and innuendo finally catch up with you Marla?"
Again your vague references and unproven statements which are being made from behind a false identity have left me at a loss.
But since you are too cowardly to come out in the open and 'show your face' so to speak, the loss is no big problem to me.
I do think it's sad that you have use other people's blogs to wage their petty little wars on someone. That's pretty disrespectful to Joe if you ask me
Have a nice life, Freshie.....whomever you are.
Jesse, are you REALLY that dense?!
It would seem that some fans around here want gateworld to be the blind cheerleading section of stargate. Rah rah rah! Season nine is the best ever! Pay no attention to any possible flaws in the design or any decrease in ratings!
Sorry, season nine just isn't holding up. Mitch is little more than Mary Sue wallpaper, Daniel's temper is getting the better of him, Sam seems tired, and Teal'c has too little to say. Do they act anything like a team? Does Mitch act like their leader? Nope. Vala is laughably bad, a hypersexualized woman with the mind of a teenage girl. And certain people from TPTB are accusing gateworld fans of being mysogynistic? Looks like it's time to turn the mirror on themselves.
Ooh, and look at me! I'm a journalist! Snort.
So Freshie shouldn't be anonymous, but it's okay for your "friend" to be anonymous?
Either your friend didn't want this all over the net and you betrayed her trust or she did, and you are helping her spread rumours anonymously. So who are you to criticise Freshie for posting anonymously? At least she isn't starting rumours that RDA is a rapist unlike your journal at http://www.livejournal.com/users/77firebird/ which you have now edited to remove the unpleasant remarks you made about how RDA would not take no for an answer, and how some men do sexual stuff to women, etc.
bah, just ignore "marla reed (journalist - lol). She posts on the sony boards too as gateangel. every second post is about how she's a "real reporter" who "interviews stars". ehe loves to pimp her own parade so much, it's a wonder her ego fits through the door. i've never heard of any other reporter who's quite so self-involved. she seems to think that since she sat down with (insert michael shanks' name here) a couple of times, she's somehow special. I heard she's even private messaged people on the forum about her so-called "friend who knows RDA". spreadin' her lies. great reporter's ethic. yeah, she's a real class act. just ignore the wench. all she wants is attention.
*Marla Reed, Journalist said...
Joe stood up for co-workers, I stood up for a friend who had an experience with RDA that made me lose some respect for him. If you think I wouldn't say this to RDA's face, you are wrong. That's why, unlike your cowardice, I put my name on my words. *
Sheesh, Marla...you didn't stand up for your friend!!! It wasn't like anyone called your friend a name or said something bad about her and you stood up for her against the others.
What you did was do the old "I know something you don't know" and I'm going to give some hints but not really say anything. You know how rumors start when you do something like that. You knew exactly what the result would be...I'm convinced of that.
Who the heck do you think actually cares that you, Marla Reed, lost some measure of respect for RDA anyway? Do you really think anyone cares WHY you decided to step down as list owner?
I've seen you do this kind of stuff before on OS. You hint at things, suggesting you have inside knowledge, and when asked to clarify what you are saying, to be specific, you reply that you aren't at liberty to say more.
You seem to be much more impressed with and interested in yourself and your knowledgte than most other people are.
Give it a rest,
Linda Saraskian
<<,,,,,So who are you to criticise Freshie for posting anonymously? At least she isn't starting rumours that RDA is a rapist unlike your journal at http://www.livejournal.com/users/77firebird/ which you have now edited to remove the unpleasant remarks you made about how RDA would not take no for an answer, and how some men do sexual stuff to women, etc.<<
Marla never said RDA was a rapist; let's be clear about that.
IMO, interviewing Stargate actors doesn't make one a journalist. I get the sense that she just really wants attention very badly, which is why she often alludes to all the "secrets" she knows. People then e-mail her and want to know the skinny and it makes her feel important.
Just take everything she says with a grain of salt and you'll be fine.
Thanks for you comments, Joe. I love this season -- is it "the best ever"? Dunno -- it's only 1/2 done here :>. That's my problem with polls like that one...
In general -- I love what I've seen so far. I love the Daniel-Varla interplay, I love Cameron as a character ("the band's back together"), I love Sam's return and her interactions with the team -- I even like Landry -- no small feat, as I've loved the previous 2 generals and he had a tough act to follow. I've been enjoying the Dr. Lam and her interaction with "Daddy" -- lookin' forward to more of that! It's a great season -- I'm *really* hoping you get picked up for #10 -- love to see more of this new team!
Thanks!
twilight2000 (Live Journal)
Marla was very careful to deal only in innuendo, but she did start a rumour RDA was a rapist. Not because she said it, but because she did her very best to imply that he did something sexual and "wouldn't take no for an answer" without having the guts to put her name to any statement that could be checked for veracity. We don't know who this "friend" is, we don't know what exactly is supposed to have happened. Marla knows fandom and she knew this would start trouble and make people notice MARLA REED, JOURNALIST. I think questions need to be asked about why the Stargate magazine is giving work to someone who says sick, unproven things about the Stargate actors to get herself attention. It's Munchhausen's-by-blogging.
as i read everyone's thoughts... no matter how exciting a storyline can be, no matter how many explosions, fights, space battles, aliens taking over the world - it's *nothing* without the characters behind it. and *that's* what feels empty this season. not for mitchell, who's getting more time behind his character than landry and lam, but for the three remaining characters... i feel a bit empty.
daniel's got the most screentime so far, but it's mainly tied up with a scene-stealing side character. and even though teal'c's been on since the first ep of this season, he almost feels like a recurring character.
sam... sam i'm the most disappointed with. she's *my* fave character. for the last two seasons, we explored what was going on in her life privately and professionally. privately, she struggled with wanting an outside life but not being able to 'really' have it because of who she really wanted it with (jack). professionally, she was given command of sg1. by the end of season 8, she'd come to terms with certain aspects of her personal life (pete, jacob, jack), and was enjoying commanding her team. so we start season 9, and continue with it... those two HUGE aspects of sam's life that she'd been dealing with for two seasons is suddenly a non sequitur. it's like regressing her progress.
and my second fave character (jack)... his appearances in season 9 have been less than impressive, *specifically* in origin. the jack-daniel and jack-mitchell sequences felt tacked on and heart-less.
why am i telling you all this? because i feel the REAL heart of sg1 are the four heroes of the story (jack, sam, teal'c, daniel). before i'm going to give over my time to anything or anyone new, i want to give my time and heart to the original characters/heroes/heart of the story. and since jack's no longer around (on screen), that means, SAM, DANIEL, and TEAL'C.
i might have handled a lot of my issues *if they had been explained on screen*. i feel let down with sam, teal'c's (and Jack's) situaions, but daniel's already been given a lot to do this season, so i'm not worrying about him. yet.
i'll start caring about the new ppl (and i mean *really* caring) when i'm sure my original beloved characters are taken care of and respected.
*respected*.
thanks for reading,
sally :)
Joe Mallozzi Posted in his Q&A Thread:
"The previous members of the team had gone their separate ways, so he wasn't taking command away from anyone. Rather than build a whole new team, he chose to go with what worked, the old SG-1. Eventually, he reunited the team. In the writers room, we did debate the whole leadership issue and eventually compormised, deciding on a co-leadership."
So you're telling me that the writers of SG-1, the guys that have given us the last eight terrific seasons, couldn't come up with a better solution than co-leadership? Sorry, but that sounds as unlikely as it was the first time you said it. Was it that hard to come up with an original hook for Mitchell? Or, as many, many of us think is more likely the case, was Scifi or Ben Browder so adamant about having Mitchell "lead" that this was the only option left open to you? If so, then I have to applaud you for not writing a worse character for Mitchell than you already have. I know I'd be inclined to wallpaper the character that the network demanded be the new "lead", story logic or old characters be damned.
PS
You're comment about Jack being as useless as Mitchell is pretty weak too. I'm sure you guys are well aware of just how integral Richard Dean Anderson and the character of Jack O'neill was in making Stargate a success. And even if Jack was useless, I know you are also well aware that Mitchell is NO Jack O'neill.
**Marla was very careful to deal only in innuendo, but she did start a rumour RDA was a rapist.**
No, she did not. She said some things and people jumped to their own conclusions (which is what happens when people give a little bit of negative information) and *those* people helped start the rumor and give it life by mentioning the words on the Internet. In fact, MR, Journalist, clarified in her blog that it was NOT what you suggest. I know that because I read that statement myself.
Anonymous wrote:
I know I'd be inclined to wallpaper the character that the network demanded be the new "lead", story logic or old characters be damned.
It's very simple. As others have said, SG-1 didn't need a leader; it doesn't need Mitchell, but Stargate SG-1 (TV show) needs Ben Browder -- or so TPTB believe. They clearly felt they needed him (or someone like him who could bring new fans to the show) to take on the kind of role that was previously played by RDA. Given that, of course Mitchell is going to lead the team; doesn't matter to them if it makes sense in the context of the story, if he's the most qualified member of the military to lead, doesn't matter if it's logical or not. Browder didn't join the show to be pushed to the background. Bottom line is that they can get away with this kind of stuff; they pretty much can do what they want, disregard the feelings of long-time fan who have watched for years because of AT, MS and CJ, they can refuse to give fans even 30 seconds of the remaining team members mentioning that they will miss Jack. Fans complain and still watch, and as long as the ratings are decent, they will get a S10 and continue to do whatever they want.
That's a fact.
That's the point. Marla knows that when you give a little bit of negative information, people will jump to conclusions. Why mention this at all especially years after the fact? Marla is a hypocrite to call Freshie a coward when she is posting rumours for an anonymous person. That is assuming this person even exists and assuming this person wanted Marla spreading this stuff all over the 'net. If she didn't want it talked about then Marla betrayed her. Take your pick, Marla has to be either a hypocrite or a betrayer. I think anyone who still thought she was an okay person will have lost "a measure of respect" for Marla over this.
See, that's just it. Ben Browder obviously isn't helping the ratings. They're virtually the same as they've always been. He's not helping the stories. They're more illogical than ever, mostly because of this busted team structure. And, contrary to what you believe, I don't think that the producers are looking to alienate their entire fanbase. Perhaps Scifi doesn't care about longtime fans, but I still believe that the boys at bridge do. If they didn't, they wouldn't bother to keep up the propaganda, they'd have cut MS, AT, and CJ after last season, paid some new actors far less money, and continued on with "the product". If what you're saying is that Ben Browder's current role only works if you screw the original cast, then welcome to the comments section. That's exactly what many Stargate fans are upset about. And I mean Stargate fans, not fans of any one actor or character. Despite the delusions of online fandom, the biggest draw SG-1 ever had was the original team. That is what made the show so great. It was those four characters together. Shafting the remaining three characters in order to push the new "star" is exactly what all of this is all about.
OMG, I haven't been here in ages!
First things first, I really hope that SG1 and SGA get picked up for another season. Stargate is a GREAT Canadian acted/produced/directed/etc. show. In my opinion, better than Smallville which has totally screwed up the Superman/Clark Kent mythology.
As for the poll.... season 9 hasn't aired on cable yet in my part of Canada but thanks friends across the border, I get to watch it. ^^ Must say season 9 is turning out very very interesting.
In regards to your comment in the previous blog, if you're really learning Cantonese I can help you a bit, being a native speaker. ^^
**See, that's just it. Ben Browder obviously isn't helping the ratings. They're virtually the same as they've always been.**
We don't know that he isn't helping the ratings. For discussion purposes, suppose 10,000 people stopped watching the show because RDA left. Maybe 10,000 Browder fans started watching the show because of him. Would the ratings have gone down after RDA left if Browder hadn't joined? Unknown. Browder (and Claudia Black) are definitely bringing Farscape fans to the show. Ratings are just a tiny tiny bit lower than last year; almost the same - status quo.
Take your pick, Marla has to be either a hypocrite or a betrayer. I think anyone who still thought she was an okay person will have lost "a measure of respect" for Marla over this.
Personally, I think anyone who signs posts as with their name, followed by what they do for a living, as in "Marla Reed, Journalist" is a bit of a joke. That's just my opinion, anyway.
Cydney Barton, Meteorologist ;-)
Reading these comments I have come to the conclusion:
Fandom would be so much better if there wern't any fans around.
And lol, good call Cydney Barton, Meteorologist :D
Good Lord, can someone please remove the ability to post anonymously from these blogs? I normally enjoy reading the blogs and comments, but lately this vicious name calling and character slander is really getting completely out of hand. I actually like Daniel, Teal'c and Sam. Unfortunately I can't say I really know enough about Mitchell to really say whether I like him or not. I do however think CJ is a hoot and Amanda is a sweetheart and up until a few minutes ago I had never heard anything remotely negative about RDA. But thanks to some people, I have now heard unproven and slanderous comments about RDA. This is a television show people and the people you are all tearing to pieces are human beings who are simply doing their jobs. If you dislike a character or something specific about an episode, take it to a thread and post your opinions openly where everyone will know who is making all of these comments and accusations. Don't hide behind your cowardice in this blog where you can comdemn without identifying yourselves.
Kat( ForeverSG1 )
If anyone would like to read a positive editorial on Season 9 and Cameron Mitchell, the Solutions' site owner has written a new one:
New Guy! Cameron Mitchell
I for one found it very refreshing.
What the hell is wrong with you people? When I made the mistake of clicking on the "comments button" of Joseph Mallozzi' Blog, I expected to find comments about SG1. I expected to see questions regarding the upcoming episodes of SG1. Damn, I expected to find intellegent script. But instead I was insulted with nothing more than nasty RUMORS, GOSSIP AND INNUENDO by persons with short attention spans, small lives and even smaller brains. I just don't get it, why have this arguement here? If you want to bicker back and forth go find a nice little IM program someplace.
This is not the format for RUMORS, GOSSIP AND INNUENDO, no matter who you are discussing.
Michelle said...
If anyone would like to read a positive editorial on Season 9 and Cameron Mitchell, the Solutions' site owner has written a new one:
New Guy! Cameron Mitchell
I for one found it very refreshing.
***
And if "New Guy! Cameron Mitchell" happens to take anything away from Daniel Jackson in the second half, this Solutions editorial will sound VERY different...
How timely to post something so pro Cam (when you want to kiss up that is).
Wow...what a bizarre shift. Now I'm seeing a sea of comments stating pretty much the same thing: "Cam is great/Cam is wonderful/We love Cam/Rah Rah Rah." I'm not quite on board with this bandwagon (and it seems a little premature to be so gung ho about a character we barely know)...but like I said earlier, I know what Ben is capable of so I am willing to give Cam a chance to grow on me.
And ForeverSG1...that was very well said, Kat. Any comments about any of the stars of the show like that should be reserved for the gossip rags at the local grocery store. It absolutely drives me nuts when ANY actor is being berated...but especially when it happens to be one of my favorite actors. Some of the things being bantied about so wrecklessly regarding Rick is most certainly completely out of bounds and irresponsible at the very least and frankly could even be considered legally actionable. Can you say "libel" anyone?
I don't know Marla Reed. I don't know if she's a journalist or a hairstylist or a NASA engineer. I do know that she has the right to post her thoughts on here without fear of retribution. Unless of course she makes stupid or irresponsible comments or slams on the characters or the actors...then she (like anyone else) is open game to be pummelled. So far, I have not seen any such display from her...only her likes about the season and her appreciation for Joe standing up for the actors. And as for that...
Joe, my only complaint about this was that I saw you stand up for Ben and Mitchell only. Some people in the previous comments slot said very irresponsible, stupid and hateful things about both Amanda Tapping and Samantha Carter and they went completely unchallenged. I wish you would have called them for that too.
That being said, except for the occasional cringeworthy post here, most of these comments are either informative or entertaining...or both. I just wish people would stop hiding behind the "anonymous" option and put their names behind their words.
Mary Beth
One "small" thing about the ratings. Nielsen's 2.0 this year isn't the same 2.0 from last year or two years ago. Nielsen points for this year represent MORE VIEWERS per point than last year. So even if it looks the same, it isn't at all.
Re: Joe's comment about mailing complaints about the actors to Mr. Clause at Northpole:
Folks..just for the record, as someone who lives about ~20 mi from Northpole, please address your complaints to the South Pole..we really don't need our postal system getting bogged down with that particular kind of mail...don't exactly know who you'd be mailing to, but that's your prob...just do it, OK? ;) :p
alaskannut
twilight2000, it's VALA, not Varla. Varla was a Nebari on Farscape's season 2 "A Clockwork Nebari" episode.
Joe-The thing about season nine that I am having a hard time with is the ORI. One of the best parts of Seasons 1-8 were the non Gouald episodes. Do we really have to have a unifying bad guy concept? In any case, want to recommend a SciFi book that I read which has a really cool plot that might generate some ideas: Vernor Vinge's "Deepness in the Sky."
The one thing that we can always be assured of is that only 10% of the posts under comments in this blog will be relevant. The rest will be the typical crap that constitutes too much of this fandom: fan politics, insecurities, jealousies and stupidity. Think that covers it.
Reminds me of the nastiness that JMS engendered in B5 fandom too.
Oh, found this in JM's Q&A section on the forum.
Obviously, he is amused by all this
"To be honest, I enjoy reading the wackos as much as I enjoy reading the praise and constructive criticism. In the end, they're the ones who end up looking/sounding silly."
Michelle said:
"If anyone would like to read a positive editorial on Season 9 and Cameron Mitchell, the Solutions' site owner has written a new one:
New Guy! Cameron Mitchell
I for one found it very refreshing."
Yeah, look, I get that it's a nice write up for Cameron, and I get that that's going to make all of the Ben Browder fans happy. But it's wise to view everything in its proper context. The Solutions site is also the fine, upstanding site that has crafted such editorial pieces as "Sex, gender issues, and SG-1", wherein
Sam Carter, the writers, and anyone else besides the character of Daniel Jackson is maligned and lambasted as ruining the would-be Daniel/Jack love affair.
Prior to that lovely piece the site owner of Solutions so sagely explains in "Views: Aveo Amacuse" that in Lost City, Jack was only saying goodbye to bosom friend and would-be bedmate Daniel, not the entire SG-1 team. Good stuff there.
How about one more? In the editorial "Fight the Destruction of Stargate" Solutions advocates a write-in campaign against the characters of Jack O'neill and Sam Carter, declaring that they should be court marshalled for their obviously inappropriate, heinous, and disgusting heterosexual attraction. After all, this is a science fiction show about Daniel Jackson.
So, maybe before all the Browder fans jump on board with Solutions, you should actually read up on what they really think of Stargate, its actors, and its writers. And then, just for fun, and because once you start reading such enlightened material you won't be able to stop, head on over to Save Daniel Jackson and read some of the perfectly sane views over there. And trust me when I say, the minute that Mitchell no longer serves the purposes of Daniel Jackson and Michael Shanks, those "Mitchell Supporters" will turn on him like a pack of rabid wolves. Hey, it's what they do.
**Wow...what a bizarre shift. Now I'm seeing a sea of comments stating pretty much the same thing: "Cam is great/Cam is wonderful/We love Cam/Rah Rah Rah." I'm not quite on board with this bandwagon (and it seems a little premature to be so gung ho about a character we barely know)...but like I said earlier, I know what Ben is capable of so I am willing to give Cam a chance to grow on me.**
Yes, that is because someone on the Daniel-oriented forum came over here and read these posts (which were mostly negative toward Mitchell) and then started a thread of her forum saying how much they liked Mitchell. So some of those posters are here to turn the "tide."
As another anonymous said about the Soutions article: yes, right now Mitchell is liked by the Danielites because they want Danny to have a good friend who repects him. But if in the second half of the season, Mitchell takes any airtime away from Daniel or treats him in a manner which they consider disrespectful, watch them start to get down on Mitchell.
And regarding Marla Reed...since she got so much flack for posting what she did on the RDA list, I seriously doubt that she's going to attempt to say anything negative here about any RDA. She seems to now frequent the Sony Board along with her new good buddie, Kalliope, which speaks for itself.
I don't know Marla Reed. I don't know if she's a journalist or a hairstylist or a NASA engineer.
AKA "Gateangell" - used to post frequently on OS, but now frequents the Sony Boards; has interviewed a few Stargate actors, written a few articles and is a rabid Michael Shanks/Daniel Jackson fan.
Anyone can start any kind of rumor they want on the Internet. I think it's pathetic that people even entertain the idea that any of this is true, and more pathetic that "Marla Reed, Journalist" would resort to this kind of stuff to apparently get attention.
Joe, I think Mitchell so far, has been very boring and that's sad for me because I loved Ben on Farscape. I also can't believe what you guys were thinking in reference to Jack's exit. We didn't need a whole episode devoted to him, nor do *I* want to have Jack's name mentioned in every episode. Just a simple 30 second scene with Daniel, Carter and Teal'c sitting around, talking about Jack, where he went, what he is doing, mentioning that they missed him, would have been enough; a nice tribute to the character, the actor and a nod to all his fans. Having Jack joke on the phone with Landry was really lame. Just makes no sense to me. Because a little scene like I mentioned would have made many Jack fans happy; instead you chose to irritate them. Very mysterious and not smart, IMO.
Obviously every editorial (which by definition is the opinion of the author) has to be viewed in the time and context in which it was written. The Aveo Amacuse article was written by a Latin scholar who was looking for some shred of friendship between Jack and Daniel after the S7 ship-fest. The gender issues one was similarly written during a brief period of hope that the show would highlight that friendship. If Mitchell becomes a serial killer in the second half of S9, then yes, the author of the pro-Cam piece might have a change of heart about the character. That doesn't invalidate how she feels right now.
Anyway thanks for the publicity for Solutions. The motive for the new piece was nothing more than to express a sincere counter-argument to the "Cam adds nothing" brigade, but if you want to see some deeper conspiracy to gain influence or Farscape fans, feel free.
////Anyway thanks for the publicity for Solutions. The motive for the new piece was nothing more than to express a sincere counter-argument to the "Cam adds nothing" brigade, but if you want to see some deeper conspiracy to gain influence or Farscape fans, feel free.////
Almost to a person, people on OS have stated that they only like Cam in relation to Daniel; that as long as he keeps his place, is nice to Daniel, doesn't usurp him, is a buddy to him, they will like him. Generally speaking, they are only interested in Cam in terms of how he relates to Daniel; what he gives to Daniel, not as a character on his own. They don't want to see how Cam relates to Sam or Teal'c, they are only interested in how he relates to Daniel. Several have even stated that if Cameron starts to take anything away from Daniel, then their feelings for him will change.
Sorry, the motive for the piece is very cirumspect. All things written on Solutions/OS have a very strong bias and are not in any way objective. It is quite frankly, a meeting ground for people who believe Daniel Jackson is the be all and end all of the show; that it's Daniel's journey and all the other character are there merely to protect him and give him comfort. If one feels that way, that's fine; it's one viewpoint. It's the trying to pretend that there is objectivity that puzzles me.
Oh, can I play too? Boo hoo hoo! I'm a bitchy little shipper who didn't get what I wanted now I hate the show and want everyone else to hate it too. That's how the song goes, doesn't it?
Why don't you all go back to your matching Sam and Jack Barbie dolls and your cut out pictures of wedding cakes and leave the grown ups alone?
Solutions doesn't need publicity. They're already infamous. People go there all the time for a laugh. Everyone's heard of Bedlam, too.
The author of the editorial does not post on OS at all, so it's a mistake to see a contradiction there. Solutions has its own forum, and there is no editorial cross-over with SDJ or its forum, OS.
And now to avoid further boring everyone here, if anyone would like to discuss the editorial further, feel free to comment over at the Solutions blog or sg1solutions delphi forum.
""Why don't you all go back to your matching Sam and Jack Barbie dolls and your cut out pictures of wedding cakes and leave the grown ups alone?""
I was a big Jack fan who wasn't a Sam/Jack shipper fan. I still watch the show now, I think Mitchell is OK, but the show doesn't have the same excitement for me that it once was. However, since I still watch, I don't want it to end and I wouldn't "wish" it to end because many others still enjoy it.
Having said that, I would question whether the comment you wrote above was actually written by a "grown up." Pot meet kettle. Maybe the absence of Jack will calm fandom down a bit. Because with him gone, there won't be that constant battle over whether he belongs with Sam or with Daniel (whether it is a friendship thing or a slash thing).
I just don't think I've ever seen such emotions over fictional TV characters. But then this is my first step into fandom. Babylon 5 is still my all-time favorite science fiction show and I must say I think I probably enjoyed it much better not being aware of what was going on with on-line fandom at the time.
----The author of the editorial does not post on OS at all, so it's a mistake to see a contradiction there. Solutions has its own forum, and there is no editorial cross-over with SDJ or its forum, OS.---
Different forum, often frequented by the same posters as OS, saying the very same thing. OS is bigger, but the talking points are exactly the same for the 2 forums; it's the Daniel Jackson show, all other characters are just there to support him on his journey, Michael Shanks (squee) is the greatest actor since Sir Laurence Olivier, Sam is despised, should be court-martialed, kicked off the show, many of the posters are glad that RDA is gone because he was bringing down the show and making it difficult for the other actors, yada, yada, yada.
And regarding Marla Reed...since she got so much flack for posting what she did on the RDA list, I seriously doubt that she's going to attempt to say anything negative here about any RDA. She seems to now frequent the Sony Board along with her new good buddie, Kalliope, which speaks for itself.
Anonymous, could you please identify yourself? And explain what exactly do you mean by "... which speaks for itself." If you know something I don't know please tell me, I'll be happy to know it too.
BTW, Marla has different point of view on Vala's character, so this disqualifies her definitely as my "buddy", as you call it :D
Kalliope wrote:
Anonymous, could you please identify yourself? And explain what exactly do you mean by "... which speaks for itself." If you know something I don't know please tell me, I'll be happy to know it too.
Hey Kalliope. My Name is Wendy King and I live in Seattle; I mainly lurk on forums; don't post so I don't have a screen name. Does that help you out? I've read your posts on GW and I must say I just find them childish. You love Vala and that's your right, but this cheerleading for her, the constant "Vala: is the greatest," admonishing others who say something negative about her, telling people they have to give her a chance, etc. is very tiresome. I think your posts are tiresome and I think think Marla's are as well; doesn't matter if she has a different opinion of Vala than you do. It's the same thing over and over and over, ad nauseum. You just keep posting the same thing repeatedly as does "Marla Reed, Journalist"
You 2 seem to have found a place for yourselves on the Sony forums. Birds of a feather. Kind of like the Raiders of the NFL.
There you go....just my opinion.
"Different forum, often frequented by the same posters as OS, saying the very same thing. OS is bigger, but the talking points are exactly the same for the 2 forums;"
The editorial is the opinion of the author, who is the Solutions site owner and SG1Solutions forum owner. She has (gasp!) her own views, separate from people who post in the forum, who, as long as they stay within the rules, can say what they want. I'm not sure what you think the author would gain by lying about her views in an editorial, but then again I'm amazed by how cynical people are.
FYI, the author of the piece has posted some words about the evolution of her views, in the comments section of the Solutions blog piece. It might help clarify the 'inconsistency' some seem to see.
Well that was certainly weird. First off there are no rumors of RDA as a rapist other than what people are making up in their lurid minds and borne out of their obsessive need to trash me. People who warp things to such a lurid extent like that to take potshots at me are the ones who truly create harm for RDA.
They are so caught up in their need to trash me that they don't care what kind of spin they put on what I said about him or how and where they spread their warped versions of my words. They have no concept of respecting that the quickest way to not lend power to something is to ignore it or not make more out of it than already has been.
I had a strong thing to say about RDA, but I posted it in my livehjournal where people could make the CHOICE on their own to go and read it or not. But the people who are mentioning it here are taking away other fans right to chose and are forcing it upon them and making up lurid details that only create harm and disruption. They are so caught up in their own fantasy world of them somehow having to trash me to make themselves look better that they don't care about other people and they certainly don't care about RDA or respect him very much.
I at least still have respect for him, just not as much as I used to.
What truly amazes me in all of this hoopla is that it really isn't about RDA, it is about wanting to say bad things about me.
Why do I think that, well because not one person has bothered to spread this far the thing I said nice about RDA. The wonderful and amazing thing he and Joe Mallozzi did for another friend of mine who was dying of cancer. The incredibly nice thing that put a smile on her face and made her so happy before she died.
No one wanted to mention that because it couldn't be used to wage a petty little war against me which is what this is really all about and is not about defending RDA or being outraged over my issue with RDA. So I have very little concern for people with thos kinds of motives. They are all about calling attention to themselves.
"IMO, interviewing Stargate actors doesn't make one a journalist."
Gosh so does that mean that David and Darren of GW aren't real journalist? Does that mean that Thomasina Gibson or Steve Eramo aren't real journalists.
My that's so kind of you to tell people what they are and they aren't.
"I get the sense that she just really wants attention very badly, which is why she often alludes to all the "secrets" she knows. People then e-mail her and want to know the skinny and it makes her feel important."
I think you need to take you 'sense' in for a tune up. I don't allude to secrets. The truth is I talk very little about the interviews I've done aside from a technical comment or two or to praise the actor for being nice to work with in that capacity.
Anything I do mention is stated as fact and is there for people to read in my articles or in articles I contribute to. I talked some about RCC finally getting the chance to do the show he always wanted to do. This is a fact he has stated, as has Joe Mallozzi and the actors as well. TPTB wanted to change the name of the show and have it as a new spin off. That is not a 'secret'.
I'm sorry to disappoint you, but no one emails me asking for the 'skinny' on anything because everything I have mentioned is fact and facts that have come out in my own and other people's interviews and commentaries with the production and the actors.
What you 'sense' is really just your own little fantasy world about me where you imagine these kinds of things about me
My question is don't you have something better to use your imagination on then trying to create a fantasy world about me where you are better than I am somehow? Is your own sense of selfworth that low that you have to villify me or project that type of low selfworth onto me to make you look like a better person.
I feel sad for you.
Hey Wendy, nice to meet you. My name is Katarzyna Godycka, and I live in Warsaw, Poland. Thanks for honesty, point taken. But at Sony Board there are MANY other people, not just Marla, whom I don't know really, I don't read her blog, only read her 2 or 3 interviews with Michael Shnks online and in the Stargate Magazine, the other people at Sony Board are much closer to me, though. More and more people from GW are joining this lovely board recently escaping from GW, which is not a surprise at all, really.
BTW, small excerpt from recent Rob Cooper's interview in latest Stargate Magazine (no, I'm not going to buy this issue, because of AT on the cover), found it on another - Farscape - forum: "Claudia [Black] is incredible, she's a fantastic person off-camera and she's wonderfully dynamic on-camera. She brings so much to the character -- the character just came alive in Prometheus Unbound. Every moment that she's on screen just crackles, and the chemistry between her and Michael [Shanks] is wonderful."
Sorry, I couldn't help it :D
___FYI, the author of the piece has posted some words about the evolution of her views, in the comments section of the Solutions blog piece. It might help clarify the 'inconsistency' some seem to see.___
I read the article before. IMO, it's full of hyberpole and the writing is a bit flowery. I simply don't see Cam as she does. I don't dislike him, but I find him very very bland and I think he adds very little to the team, if anything at all. He may engage her, but not me. Again...I must say...if Cameron begins to overshadow Daniel in any respect, the tone of this article and of all the Daniel fans will change very rapidly.
There is far too much speculation and criticism among "fans" of shows on the subject of the actors themselves. But then, human beings have something of a history of judging people they've never met, usually harshly.
I found that particular poll strange, too. It's like, can something not be really good without being the best ever? I think a perfectionist must have made that poll. It's all or nothing with those types.
Kalliope said:
BTW, small excerpt from recent Rob Cooper's interview in latest Stargate Magazine (no, I'm not going to buy this issue, because of AT on the cover), found it on another - Farscape - forum: "Claudia [Black] is incredible, she's a fantastic person off-camera and she's wonderfully dynamic on-camera. She brings so much to the character -- the character just came alive in Prometheus Unbound. Every moment that she's on screen just crackles, and the chemistry between her and Michael [Shanks] is wonderful."
Sorry, I couldn't help it :D((
Kalliope..do you actually think Cooper is going to say Claudia is very boring off screen, she's static on camera and doesn't bring much to the part. She overacted in Prometheus Unbound and the chemistry between her and Michael is mediocre? It's his job to "pimp" the actors, build them up as much as he can, to say how wonderful they are, how great the show is; it's the same spiel we've been hearing from CJ, MS, etc. about how wonderful this year is; how great the show is, the writing is, how great Ben is and Claudia is. Because Rob Cooper or MS or CJ says something, it doesn't mean it is the gospel truth for everyone. It's in their best intererests to say these things.
I loved Claudia and Ben on FS myself so I have no disagreement with you on Claudia's acting skills. However, when people continually go on and on about how wonderful something is, it makes me suspicious as in they are trying too hard. I want to decide for myself if something is wonderful, I want to have it shown to me; not be told. I don't think Vala is a character that belongs on Stargate in any regular manner. If she ever becomes a regular member of SG-1, then it will be because SG-1 has changed into something I no longer recognize nor want. You simply can't have someone of Vala's character and past become one of the regular team members; it would be an insult. And if they wrote her as having a change of heart, confessing all and becoming a saint-like ala Daniel, she would lose all the qualities, IMO, that make her funny and interesting (in limited doses).
Wendy
__IMO, interviewing Stargate actors doesn't make one a journalist."
Gosh so does that mean that David and Darren of GW aren't real journalist? Does that mean that Thomasina Gibson or Steve Eramo aren't real journalists.
My that's so kind of you to tell people what they are and they aren't.__
Well, you know, they don't sign their posts as Darren xxxxx, Journalist, or David Reed, Journalist. Sorry, I just see that as so prentitious and unnecessary, which raises a red flag for me. FCOL, I am working toward my doctorate in Astronomy, but I don't go around signing things as xxxxx, Astronomer.
And actually, Marla, you posted your thing on the RDA list initially, which took away the choice of people who are on that list. And then you said if people wanted to know more, they could come to your own LiveJournal. That is the true version.
But you're right. People have given you far too much attention already. I, personally, will never read another article by you if I happen to come across it.
Again...I must say...if Cameron begins to overshadow Daniel in any respect, the tone of this article and of all the Daniel fans will change very rapidly.
Please don't make sweeping generalizations about fans. That would be like saying all Sam fans hate Mitchell because he's in command and would just fall head over heels for him if he relinquished the command to her.
I'm a Daniel fan. (ooh, scary. Let me put my claws away) Yes I like that Mitchell is friendly with Daniel. Is that a crime? I love male friendships. The Jack and Daniel friendship was so complicated and multi-dimensional, and my second favorite thing about the show, but it's nice to have a more easy going, buddy type relationship. That's my favorite, but I also like watching Mitchell and Teal'c. It's not as well developed to me as Mitchell and Daniel, but I enjoy it. I want to see how Mitchell and Sam relate, because so far, I've been told that they knew each other, but I don't sense anything beyond coworkers who just met.
And, no I don't want him to overshadow Daniel, but honestly does anyone want their favorite character overshadowed? However, I'm a person that believes Mitchell needs to be developed more. I love Mitchell as a friend of Daniel. But, just like Daniel was defined through the show as more than just a friend of Jack, I want to know Mitchell beyond (but including) his role as being friends with Daniel. I want to be able to watch him do something and know that it's typical Mitchell, or that he's done something unexpected for him. I liked Babylon. I have to admit one reason I liked it, aside from watching Mitchell in action, was watching the others worry about him.
Dani347
It's amazing how so many people get themselves worked up over a TV show. The way some folks are carrying on, you'd think Earth's very survival is at stake.
And this business of blasting other people is ridiculous, too. For God's sake, everyone has an opinion. What's the point in jumping all over someone because of it? So you don't agree. That's nice. But what's stopping you from building a bridge and getting the hell over it? People pointing fingers, "X said this, Y did this, X is biased against a character, blah blah blah..." It all convices me that the folks doing the senseless railing have no lives. It's a TV SHOW!!! Stop taking things so seriously. I bet you that if Stargate gets cancelled tomorrow, the sun will rise, you'll still have bills to pay, and the neighbor's dog will still crap in your yard.
It amazes me that people treat each other like trash when it's clear there are more important things in the world to get your panties in a twist over. I simply cannot fathom what motivates people to act this way. It's all very sad.
How about this: find something useful to do with this animosity. Channel it into something postive, like going to the gym and beating the crap out of something. At least you'll burn some calories.
~Monica, Pissed Off with Humanity
Monica, why do you care? Some people don't have a "life" as you would define it. Some people are severely handicapped and can't go to the gym and work it off. Some people have sickness (either physical or emotional) which prohibit them from living a "normal" life or channeling their animosity into something positive. Some people, for various reason, have NOTHING in their life but TV shows and fictional characters. If they want to let off steam, or even be rude to people on the Internet whom they don't know and never will see, why do you care?
Personally, if someone I don't know is rude to me when I post something, it doesn't bother me. That's one of the beauties (or curses) of the Internet; you can say what you want to whomever you want in any way you want and you don't have to assume any responsibility for your behavior. You just can't police it or expect people to behave as you would.
If it offends you, then just don't read it.
Ekuban
Ok Joe, here's an actual comment for you. Season nine is pretty much a wash. There's just not very much to get excited about, seeing as I'm actually a fan of SG-1. The episodes are rather underwhelming, the "feel" of the show is off, and the original characters are really being treated like crap. Tell me, is there one episode at all that focuses on Teal'c's, Carter's, or Daniel's character at all? This is character regression of the worst kind. It's bad, bad writing. Maybe not as bad as the writing and characterization of Mitchell, but very bad nonetheless. At this point, I'm so disappointed that I hope you're not just pulling everyone's leg in you Q&A thread, and that you are thinking of leaving the show if there's a season ten. If you feel like you've run out of good ideas or passion when it comes to the show, then please, don't stay. A new writer wrote Prototype this year. You know what? It was the best episode of the first half. It was certainly a better episode than you yourself have come up with in the last two years. Either do what's right by the show and characters or leave. Don't drag the show down with you.
Thorette said: If they want to let off steam, or even be rude to people on the Internet whom they don't know and never will see, why do you care?
I care because I know folks are better than that. Believe it or not, there are actual people behind these monitors and keyboards. Attached to these people are feelings. Now, I don't really give a damn about what anyone says about me, especially if they don't know me, but how hard is it to treat others the way you want to be treated? If all someone has going for them is a TV show and fictional characters, then they need to work out what's REALLY wrong in their lives instead of taking it out on other people and hiding behind the anonymity of the internet.
That's one of the beauties (or curses) of the Internet; you can say what you want to whomever you want in any way you want and you don't have to assume any responsibility for your behavior.
That's a horribly selfish way to look at it, if you ask me. What's wrong with being the bigger person and actually conducting yourself like an adult online? Why would anyone hop in the internet, act like an ass, and then go about their merry way? It doesn't make any kind of sense to me. You (in the plural, general sense) probably wouldn't treat people in real life like crap, why is the internet any different? Because they can't see your face? "Cowardly" is how I'd describe it.
Offended? No. Disappointed? Yes.
Personally I think Season 9 is excellent, and I've only seen 2 episodes of it so far! (Incidentally I thought Avalon 2 was better than 1 though).
Keep up the great work!
xayeidemon said...
I care because I know folks are better than that. Believe it or not, there are actual people behind these monitors and keyboards. Attached to these people are feelings. Now, I don't really give a damn about what anyone says about me, especially if they don't know me, but how hard is it to treat others the way you want to be treated? If all someone has going for them is a TV show and fictional characters, then they need to work out what's REALLY wrong in their lives instead of taking it out on other people and hiding behind the anonymity of the internet.
Seems like you're looking at people as you would *like* them to behave, I'm commenting on people as they actually DO behave. Not every person has the time, intelligence and insight to work out what is REALLY wrong in their lives. If they did, we would have a totally different world, wouldn't we?
Joe, I think S9 basically is pretty boring; I don't watch it reguarly like I did previous seasons. But hey, if other people like it and want to watch it, that's fine. I'm not going to campaign to get it off the air or complain because MY FAVORITE character isn't getting the kind of attention and writing *I* feel they should get.
[QUOTE]Kalliope said...
BTW, small excerpt from recent Rob Cooper's interview in latest Stargate Magazine (no, I'm not going to buy this issue, because of AT on the cover), found it on another - Farscape - forum: "Claudia [Black] is incredible, she's a fantastic person off-camera and she's wonderfully dynamic on-camera. She brings so much to the character -- the character just came alive in Prometheus Unbound. Every moment that she's on screen just crackles, and the chemistry between her and Michael [Shanks] is wonderful."
Sorry, I couldn't help it :D[/QUOTE]
And yet, Kalliope, it still doesn't change my mind about Vala. Nothing will change my mind about Vala but the writing.
And I'd like to know-why won't you buy a magazine with Amanda T. on it?
Hi Joe. I just heard that you post here at gateworld. I think it's great that you do that. And from reading some of the comments people have left, I'm not nearly as shy as I would normally be about posting some complaints I have about season nine.
1. Vala is way, way too over the top. She's like a cartoon. A cartoon that you wish would just go away. The first few episodes this year were really hard to sit through. I hope Vala develops some sort of personality besides the "Hi, I'm easy" one she's been sporting so far. Stargate shouldn't be about Vala. It should be about SG-1.
2. Mitchell is doing ok. He's an ok addition to the team. He seems to fit in well enough, but he doesn't really do anything. He's not been good as a leader. Maybe that's because the other three are already better leaders than he is. I don't know, he's just not that gripping of a character. He's very bland, almost to the point of being nonexistant.
3. I do like the Ori. They work well, so far, as villains. But there are too many episodes about them. How about a few more goauld episodes? Baal is great! And a little replicator action would be cool too.
4. What happened to O'neill? Did I miss the episode where he left? Did he retire to be with Carter?
5. Here are just a few random things that it would be nice to know about. Sarah Gardner--what happened to her? Nick Ballard--what's up? Oma and Anubis--will we ever see them again?
Thanks for doing this stuff Joe.
Joe, I can't beg you enough to be done with Vala. Absolutely the worst character ever on Stargate. A slutty, over the top Aris Boch. There is no depth or originality there at all. Why not just bring Anise back if you needed to "spice" up the show? Nothing kills quality like poor, not funny sexual humour.
Dear Mr Mallozzi
I recently received a huge amount of unexpected letters coming from all over the world. I'm really glad you thought of me as a solution to their problems but ... I just deliver presents, I don't do therapies.
Christmas is coming soon and believe me you don't want me to send you all the frustrated children! ( you have enough to do with frustrated fans...)
By the way ... here is my wish list for season 10:
- could Vala be pregnant with an Ori?
- could Sam be stuck in space? facing death if possible...
- could Teal'c get tortured by some rebel Jaffas?
- could we see a russian ship ?
- could the 4th questions I just aked be in the same episode?
thanks a lot
Santa Claus (Who's always watching you all!)
PS2: Could Sam be something else than the blond standing here? OR if Amanda doesn't wanna come back ... Mrs Claus is getting old and will neeed to be replace soon!
Kalliope said:
BTW, small excerpt from recent Rob Cooper's interview in latest Stargate Magazine (no, I'm not going to buy this issue, because of AT on the cover), found it on another - Farscape - forum: "Claudia [Black] is incredible, she's a fantastic person off-camera and she's wonderfully dynamic on-camera. She brings so much to the character -- the character just came alive in Prometheus Unbound. Every moment that she's on screen just crackles, and the chemistry between her and Michael [Shanks] is wonderful."
Sorry, I couldn't help it :D
---------------------------------
We know you can't help it. That's why it's so incredibly sad.
Now that we're done needlessly bashing on Marla Reed (someone with whom I think I've actually never agreed), let's go back to bashing the statements like these that come from - you guessed it - our girl, Special K.
Rather than being a mature individual - a "grown up," if you will - and simply posting her usual shameless plugs about all things Vala, she had to mention that she wouldn't buy the magazine because AT was on the cover.
Now, we must ask ourselves... Was that little tidbit necessary? Did it further explain how great Claudia Black is?
No. All it did was prove that Kalliope, like a number of her pals, is incapable of fan-girling it up for one character/actor, without bashing another character/actor. In one breath, she managed to get all of the CB-gratification she could ever hope for, while bashing not the character, BUT THE ACTOR.
All this little statement did was prove the theory that certain fans are missing essential screws in their craniums.
It's no wonder K-Spice has found undeterred bliss in the biased likes of the Sony Forums. God only knows why The Crazies have been allowed to wreak havoc on THE OFFICAL SITE for so freaking long... It boggles the mind, doesn't it?
And don't take this personally, Special K. I think that way about ALL of your little craziers - er, culties - er, friends.
I, for one, am glad you didn't buy the magazine, because I'm sure you would've found a completely justified reason to do some crazy voodoo stuff with the cover, and that's such a disturbing - yet plausible - thought.
In conclusion, I'm with Mary Beth in wondering why Boy Wonder was the only one defended when AT/Sam and (shock, horror) MS/Daniel were also bashed in the last blog comments. Hmmm...
With Love,
the dancer of spaz
PS - no matter how much I may agree with you fabulously eloquent bloggers, anonymity is dead. let's all grow spines together. ;)
Marla Reed, Journalist a Shanks fan?
Pull the other one.
She blows with the wind. Who ever she feels she will get the most attention from is the one she pursues.
RDA was first, Shanks was next, and I believe she claims Mallozzi is a good friend too these days.
She will try Tapping next if she thinks it will do her any good.
""Well, you know, they don't sign their posts as Darren xxxxx, Journalist, or David Reed, Journalist. Sorry, I just see that as so prentitious and unnecessary, which raises a red flag for me. FCOL, I am working toward my doctorate in Astronomy, but I don't go around signing things as xxxxx, Astronomer. ""
Darren often signs his post as the administrator of GW. There is nothing wrong with that as he is proud of his accomplishment.
I'm sorry to hear you don't take pride in your work or your acomplishments. That's too bad. I hope one day you learn to feel more secure in yourself to put your title with your name.
It's funny how some people have such an adverse reaction to other people who are secure in their own work and want to take pride in it. Why some peole feel they need to tear down a person who is happy with what they have accomplished or the dreams they have succeeded in making reality for themselves. Why people like you feel threatened by this..so much so that you have to try to belittle me to make yourself look better.
"And actually, Marla, you posted your thing on the RDA list initially, which took away the choice of people who are on that list. And then you said if people wanted to know more, they could come to your own LiveJournal. That is the true version."
Yes you're right I did do that. Thanks for pointing it out. I should have mentioned that.
"But you're right. People have given you far too much attention already. I, personally, will never read another article by you if I happen to come across it."
Thank you for pointing out the very thing that makes the theory that I do things for 'attention' nothing but hogwash. I wasn't the one using this to draw attention to myself. I wasn't the one who made it a point to mention it here. Freshie was the only one using it to bring attention to herself with her 'Look at me, I'm better than Marla because she said this thing about RDA and I'm going to point that out to you' post.
As for you not reading my articles, well I won't lose any sleep over that one. You can do what you want or be as petulant and childish about this as you want. No one is going to know the difference unless you spend time making 'I didn't read this because it was written by Marla' posts everytime an article I write comes out. And please feel free to do so I would love to know who you really are and if you have the courage to stand up for your convictions and put your name on them.
Sigh
the rabid daniel fans tolerate Cam only as long as he 'keeps his place'...that is keeps securely in the background so that thier boy can shine.
Which is precisely why the trite and cliche ridden Vala is so adored. Vala is paird with Daniel to avoid the 'Oh look, it's Farscape redux' so OF COURSE the rabid daniel fans love her.
they tolerate Teal'c only because the poor man never gets any lines and so isnt' a threat to thier interpretation of who the 'star' of the show is
In season six, Corin/Jonas was thier target to get rid of. and now that he's gone, Amanda/Sam is thier quarry. and once they succeed in getting her fired who will be next??? You got it, it'll be cameron/Ben.
They will not be happy until they get thier actor the unadulterated center of attention. and since many have professed that they'd sit in front of the set and watch him read the phone book, you know just how enthralling the show will be.
Oh, and folks, lay off Marlalala. All you're doing is feeding her victim syndrome and giving her something to whine about. I'm sure she'll be posting next about receiving threats and how persecuted she is.
You're doing nothing more than giving her the attention she so desperately craves
If you want really good writing for Vala, find a way to make a miracle and invite David Kemper to the writing staff... Or Joss Whedon. Or Rockne O'Bannon.
As for me not buying magazines with AT on the cover... if there would be an interview with Claudia Black inside, I'd make the exception. (And somebody please the dancer of spaz, that I wouldn't do the voodoo thing over the AT cover, but if she thinks I'd do that makes me think that she's able to do this with somebody else's cover.) They're too frelling expensive (36,20 PLN = 11,07 USA today) to buy EVERY issue. I'm not that rich. It's enough for me to list them to see what's inside in the bookstore and decide whether the content is interesting enough to spend money on it.
Crazies? So far I saw the moderator of Sony Board banning FOREVER people from Sam's brigade for trolling over there and doing nasty provocations...
I loved this past season both shows SG1/SGA were great! Everyone I know also agrees with this. Keep up the good work!
Kat
Yeah, the grading score seems a little biased. I voted for the "Best SG-1 ever!", althought I would have liked to vote for "Good" - best SG-1 season ever definately goes to Season 8, although season 9 is rapidly becoming a close second. Season 8 was the best because of some of its episodes - New Order, part 1 and part 2, was a great season opener, Icon was a solid Daniel episode I really liked, and then Reckoning part 1 and part 2 were amazing, Threads was perfect, and Moebius was just above and beyond anything I could have possibly hoped for (it combined the best elements of time travel, the team action we all knew and missed, the appearance of a goa'uld who happenned to be Ra, the way it was integral to the story of our timeline, etc.).
Season 2 of Atlantis is really great so far, much better than the first season, and like I said before, Season 9 is definately up there as one of the best seasons yet.
Gosh, you know, Joe, entertaining though all this may be, at the point the comments section becomes a forum for bashing actors, I would say it's time to consider shutting it down, or at the very least removing any option of posting anonymously. I'm not sure that slanderous rumors about RDA, insults about AT's age and weight, and accusations about BB's ego need to be given a place to shine in the collective consciousness of the fandom.
There's a wonderful buddhist saying, "Avoid the company of deluded people when you can. When you cannot, keep your own counsel."
I think I have to agree with the person who stated earlier that you guys should stick to your own creative vision for the show.
I've heard people complain that you blow the fans off, but I have to wonder how you could possibly take a fandom that seems to be so divided into extreme factions without a grain of salt. Not to say that everyone in Stargate fandom is whacko, but I have to shake my head at how skewed things can get. There certainly seems to be a disproportionate level of hate aimed at certain characters from various different groups.
True, you get some good, analytical feedback here, which is part of the reason I've been following along, but I also have to wonder if it's worth wading through the vitriol and hate to find it.
Cheers,
Strix varia
I haven't read all the comments, but I think that there is a difference between a personal attack on an actor and a critique of his acting ability. Ben Browder seems to have a limited range as an actor, and that is a problem when he plays a main character in a show. However, some of his limitations could be due to the limitations of the scripts he is given.
The best way for tptb to handle the different factions? Don't go out of your way to cater to or anger any of them. Instead, treat each character as an important, valuable, and contributing member of the Stargate universe. They're your babies, for want of a better word. *cue sappy violins*
Naturally there will always be fans of any character who won't be satisfied, but overall I think that's a good way to do things.
Dani347
I agree. There's not an excessive amount of Ben Browder bashing going here. Other actors are getting it far worse. The fact that Joe feels the need to defend Ben only is troubling. And it is Ben's limited range as an actor that is hurting his credibility as a leader. His one "anguished" look and his "bouncy" walk are all that he's got. And that's getting the job done as any type of leader. One poster way up this list commented on his lack of physical presence. He was right. Ben doesn't give Mitchell enough presence to be a lead. He'd probably make a great supporting player, but he's well out of his league right now.
Journalist: a writer for newspapers and magazines
And we must assume that a journalist makes a LIVING from writing said articles, so at the most we can reach is that of the aforementioned names (marla, darren, david) might be 'freelance journalists', none of them are actually making a living from it. And do they put that down as 'occupation' on their tax returns?
So, fans who are writing articles, scoring some interviews, yes, but not making living at it, so, not really journalists.
End of nitpicking.
Hi Joe, I'm just popping in amid the chaos to recommend some shorter anime series.
Since you seem to have a fondness for samurai anime, try Samurai Champloo (26 eps) - think Cowboy Beebop meets Kenshin. Or since you liked the weirdness of Paranoia Agent, try Serial Experiments Lain or Boogiepop Phantom (both 13 eps). Infinite Ryvius (26 eps) is also excellent, like Lord of the Flies in space, though it's EXTREMELY depressing. On the movie front, Metropolis is not to be missed and I've heard good things about Visions of a Distant Star and The Place Promised in Our Early Days, though I haven't seen them yet.
Happy anime watching and congrads on your renewals!
Kalliope said:
As for me not buying magazines with AT on the cover... if there would be an interview with Claudia Black inside, I'd make the exception. (And somebody please the dancer of spaz, that I wouldn't do the voodoo thing over the AT cover, but if she thinks I'd do that makes me think that she's able to do this with somebody else's cover.) They're too frelling expensive (36,20 PLN = 11,07 USA today) to buy EVERY issue. I'm not that rich. It's enough for me to list them to see what's inside in the bookstore and decide whether the content is interesting enough to spend money on it.
Crazies? So far I saw the moderator of Sony Board banning FOREVER people from Sam's brigade for trolling over there and doing nasty provocations...
-----------------------------------
Whatever excuses you now want to conveniently use for WHY you said what you said or WHY you feel what you feel, we all know that deep down inside you REALLY got off on taking that unnecessary and unwarranted dig at Amanda Tapping.
And don't worry about me (or anyone else on GW) doing voodoo for "someone else," either. Believe it or not, even though there are a bunch of Jack, Sam, Teal'c, Cameron, Daniel and Vala fans who ALL manage to coexist here on GW, a lot of us aren't all that interested in continually bashing the people whom we don't really like.
In fact, if you look at the track record of the "Crazy Sam Fans" on GW - since they're you're real target, anyway - you'll probably see a pattern of praise and adulation for ALL characters/actors, including your idol.
Find me such a pattern on one of YOUR haunts, and I'll give up this discussion right now. It's not gonna happen, but you sure can try.
Now, are you saying that the moderator at the Sony forum specifically targeted members of "Sam's Brigade" and banned them forever? For what? Disagreeing with the status quo and being adamant about it? That's rich.
See, YOU don't feel welcome on the GW forums because you were evidently warned multiple times to cut the crap by mods. Apparently, unlike Sony, GW likes to give trolls a second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth chance.
But if the moderators at Sony banned ONLY Sam fans from the forum forever, as you say, then I guess that proves everyone's point, doesn't it? It looks like Sony has joined the ranks of Our Stargate, Solutions and SDJ.
Congratulations, Special K. You guys must be so proud.
Love Always,
the dancer of spaz
Kalliope said: Crazies? So far I saw the moderator of Sony Board banning FOREVER people from Sam's brigade for trolling over there and doing nasty provocations...
Just a snarky observation, but wouldn't it be merciful for a Sam fan to be banned from the Sony boards? I hope they had the good sense to thank the mods for freeing them FOREVER from such a haven of anti Sam/AT-ism.
Cheers,
Strix varia
Congrats on the shows being renewed. Whatever my personal opinions on the show, actors, character, etc. I realize that the show cannot be all things to all people. It would be an incoherent mess if you tried. You are not Burger King and we cannot (all)have it our way.
And on a side note, for the first time in my life I understand why some people get flamed.
Queen Eleta: Proctologist
Taking pride in helping people get their heads out their asses since 1985.
I've only seen two episodes of season 9, but so far think that Ben is doing a fantastic job! It can't be easy stepping into the shoes of RDA who has such an established fanbase on SG1 (myself included...love that guy!) but he has managed to create a new and likeable character (Plus, his expression, when Cameron was told he wasn't gonna be working with Sam/Teal'c/Daniel...awww!)
Season ten eh? Exxxxcellent! Well done guys!
I also had issues with that poll...having seen TWO episodes its hardly fair to say best/worst ever...where oh where was 'That was cool...looking forward to more!' ???
Hey Joe,
Congrats on the greenlight for Season 10 (assuming of course that this means good things for you and your colleagues).
Do you guys already have a framework for next season, or does that stuff still need to be worked out with SciFi and Sony?
Thanks again for putting up with our crap! ;)
~ the dancer of spaz
Hey Joe,
Kevin Sorbo called. He says that Andromeda would like Vala back now. The quality of his show had inexplicably risen while Vala was on SG-1, and he hadn't realized that you guys had stolen some of his crap. Thanks.
PS
He was kinda angry, muttering curses and railing that "MY show is where campy cliches belong, damn it!". You may want to watch out seeing as how he is Hercules and all. Then again, maybe you could just get Vala to "seduce" him. Ha!
Hurrah for season 10! If season 9's been any indication, I can't wait to see more of the show I love.
Congrats to you all for making television history. :)
Congratulations to you and everyone else on Seasons 10 and 3!! *gives you lots of ice cream in random flavors* I hope y'all are as excited about another season as we, the rabid fans, are finding ourselves. This year has rocked soxen, and next year undoubtedly will follow. ^_____^
Joe,
A season 10, hey? For all the fans who wanted it, I'm glad they will have another year. You lost me, though. I just think you guys have lost your mojo; another year doesn't interest me. The thought of Vala and her little miracle baby (who we know will age rapidly) well, I just can't find the words to say how absolutely silly I think that is. Claudia is a very good actress, but Vala in tiny doses is enough.
Anyway, I'll be re-watching my DVDs of Seasons 1-3 next year/season whenever I feel the need for a hit of Stargate SG-1.
Reactions to the blog: "Amen, Brother!" to the first bits; & total agreement (this from a professional statistician -- don't laugh) on the somewhat lacking poll choices. (Gateworld guys: I'm available to consult on unbiased polling.)
My real reason for posting, though, is to offer congratulations on the series renewals & a huge THANK YOU from one very satisfied fan.
Extra kudos for passing along the ice cream recipe to the offical magazine!
Hope you have some time to relax before diving into seasons ten & three! Again, Joe, congrats & thanks!
Best always,
Barb.
SunKrux here - Just wanted to say KUDOS to you Joe for this comment! However, those of you complaining about Ben the person and/or actor might be better off actually writing out said critiques in a letter and mailing it to Santa c/0 The North Pole. LOL
Admittedly, when FS was canned by Skiffy, I gave up on watching anything on said network, but I did try to catch SG1 in syndication. I missed a couple seasons and have been playing catch up. I've loved the eps so far, but then I'm a huge Claudia fan (please don't lump me in with the rabid CB fans though).
I think it's a shame that some so-called fans tear down actors/crew because they don't like the way you and the other PTB have taken the show. It's great that you all (hopefully) listen to the well thought out and written complaints and try to do your best to address said complaints. Hopefully, you all are lining bird cages with the other complaints. Why bother Santa? It's starting to be his busy season. ;)
SunKrux - fan for having both Sam and Vala on SG1. It shouldn't be either or!
I don't think the people making nasty comments is character-exclusive at all. I've seen some disturbing things from fans of all the different character. Then, they sit around and congratulate themselves for being so much better then those fans of X, Y, or Z. I'm just saying.
Anyhoo, congratulations on season 10 for SG1 and season 3 for Atlantis. I for one am looking forward to more adventures through the Stargate.
First of all I would like to congratulate you on a record 10th season! That's definately an accomplishment.
Now, I don't agree with all of the actor bashing, so kudos for sticking up for the actors, and I'm glad I haven't read any of the negative personal attacks on RDA. Speaking of RDA I have to agree with those that said his O'Neill sendoff was weak, very weak indeed. I'll admit that he was my favorite and I'm having a little trouble getting into S9 but I'm giving it a chance. I do know that S8 will be the last season I buy on DVD.
I hope when the second half of the season begins, I can get back into it. Congrats again :)
Just had to mention people saying about Ben not being a very good actor. Have to ask - has anyone of you seen Farscape? I don't mean the odd ep but whole seasons? He's won awards for the acting on the show. Ben is classically trained and went to an esteemed drama school in London and was on Broadway with Dustin Hoffman.
People don't seem to appreciate that Ben can only work with what he has got script wise and then he has to decide how to approach that. The overall approach TPTB have done with Mitchell is very low key with Daniel and Vala mostly being the centre of attention and the Ori. It's no surprise that Ben's not been allowed to chew the scenery because he's not really had the situation or the character motivation to do so yet. Even Claudia mentioned in one interview that her and Ben had changed roles because in Farscape she was envious of him getting the really meaty bits whilst as Aeryn she had to hold back. Now she says the roles are reversed. So from the sounds of it Ben's understatement is on purpose.
Anyhow that's just my opinion. :)
BritAngie
Hey Joe, Season 9 is GREAT! Keep up the good work.
Congratulations on Season 10 Joe. Hang on getting ahead of myself. Congratulations on a fantastic season 9 - best ever season in my opinion.
Vala is brilliant and we need more more more, Dr Lam is also brilliant and we need more of her. Landry and Mitchell are good. Daniel and Teal'c have had fantastic stuff so far. Loved the first 5 episodes and also Prototype.
Keep it up.
Abbie
I'm happy for you guys and it's good that you have another year's work to look forward to.
Can't say i'm a fan of the direction that the show has taken in the past couple of years.
The Daniel/Vala comedy hour, while entertaining, certainly wasn't Stargate. It was more a flashback to PU and MS doing his best Ben Browder immitation. And i'm sure CB enjoyed being let loose to have fun...however her 'fun' character really isn't one that's sustainable for multiple viewings. She's like chocolate. fantastic in small doses, horrendously bad for you as a large part of your diet and something your doctor would tell you to avoid.
Since fans seem to be doomed to endure 20 more episodes of Daniel ego building, can you tell us which cliche vala and her baby will fall into?
Will he be the savior child and key to destroying the Ori?
Will he be Anubis redux, the ultimate evil...which i'm sure Daniel will have to destroy to make sure that he's got his required amount of screen time.
Will Vala lose the child, thus setting up the arc for s10, the unending search for Vala's baby. Hey, it worked for David Eddings and the Mallorian.
Or will we be greeted in s10 with Vala in Daniel's shower and all of s9 will be a horrid little dream?
Anymonous Coward wrote
"Oh, and folks, lay off Marlalala. All you're doing is feeding her victim syndrome and giving her something to whine about. I'm sure she'll be posting next about receiving threats and how persecuted she is."
Ah sorry to disapoint you, but no one has threatened me and I don't feel the slightest bit persecuted or see anything victimizing me. Not a single whine to be had LOL.
I see you're just another one of those people with nothing better to do with their time and imagination then live in some fantasy world where I'm the villain and you are better than me.
I'm sure it's all very exciting for you in that fantasy world you've created, but I really think you might need to find someone more willing to play the role you've cast me in for this safe little fantasy world to continue for you.
I mean it's really hard to continue to make up stuff about someone so that you can bolster your own self esteem and convince yourself you are the superior one when they are not like you make them to be in your fantasy world.
Out here in reality, nothing so exciting as you imagine is going on.
I don't feel the least bit persecuted no one has threatened me and I have the confidence and know how to handle any situation like that if it did come along so there wouldn't be any whining either.
Gosh that must be a letdown to you I know, but real life is sometimes disappointing like that. Learn to live with it ok:)
Joe:
Congratulations on the renewal of SG1 and SGA.
Wow 10 years of SG1 and a 200th episode coming up..waay kewl!
The Script Boys ROCK!!
Congratulations to all for a successful and rejuventated season 9 and now a record breaking season 10.I can'twait to see where you will take us next. SG1 has got its mojo back!
All the shebang that's happening about the show is a bit disturbing. Whatever happened to watching a show, trusting the creative forces at work and giving all those involved a bit of respect? People seem to never want a show to evolve or shift direction. Very bizarre.
I'm loving the new season mainly because I don't really know what to make of the new characters yet, or where they fit in. What I'm enjoying is the new face of Stargate being revealed alongside the old ideologies that got me hooked in the first place.
Joe, please don't be disheartened by the ramblings of an impolite few; your blogs are hugely appreciated.
jxh
"Anonymous wrote:
I agree. There's not an excessive amount of Ben Browder bashing going here. Other actors are getting it far worse. The fact that Joe feels the need to defend Ben only is troubling. And it is Ben's limited range as an actor that is hurting his credibility as a leader. His one "anguished" look and his "bouncy" walk are all that he's got. And that's getting the job done as any type of leader. One poster way up this list commented on his lack of physical presence. He was right. Ben doesn't give Mitchell enough presence to be a lead. He'd probably make a great supporting player, but he's well out of his league right now"
I have to agree. As much as i love Ben, he is not doing his job right!
I see you're just another one of those people with nothing better to do with their time and imagination then live in some fantasy world where I'm the villain and you are better than me.
LOL
no sweetie, i'm just someone who's watched you go through your various meltdowns over the years.
You're not a villian. Far from it. You're just a person with an overactive imagination and a need for attention.
I for one have a very good and satisifying Real Life. This just happens to be far more entertaining than the latest batch of reality shows.
And back on topic, like i said, congrats to all at Bridge for getting another year's employment. It could be very intersting to see what stories you guys cook up and what shows you decide to homage this year
Congratulations, M Mallozi! SG1 is now officially the longest running Sci-fi show in television history!
Joe,
congrats on the renewal of SG-1 and Atlantis!!!
Hallowed are the Script Elves... err, Boys! :D
I hope Claudia will be at least semi-regular on season 10 :)
At first I was going to mention the obvious about how lame people can be, but then I realized ok, kettle black here, I am a little lame too...
I enjoy Sg1 and SgA tremendously; however it seems a bit sophmoric for humans to be so distressed about a TV show. There was a previous comment regarding Wilma, the earthquake, and a horrid story about a mother in CA. I completely agree. Let's lighten up people. Those of you who use this website as a method of self gratification need to get a proverbial life. I am sure that you people are one of those Delores Claiyborne's that associate the author/actor with the character. Didn't work well for Delores did it? This is entertainment folks, if it p**ses you off so much why are you here? Free will is such a wonderful thing, get up away from your computer, get dressed and get a life like the rest of us that appreciate the storylines, character, and world of Stargate as entertainment, not a subsitute for real life. Ok now I need to participate in life. Not to mention work to pay for that darn cable bill so I can see the next season and a half!
P.S. 3 cheers for another season and soon to be longest running Scifi series ever!
"jxharrison said...
All the shebang that's happening about the show is a bit disturbing. Whatever happened to watching a show, trusting the creative forces at work and giving all those involved a bit of respect? People seem to never want a show to evolve or shift direction. Very bizarre."
Pretty much the people who are complaining about the show are the ones who aren't getting storyline THEY want. We all might as well just write fan fiction and have everything turn out to our exact specifications.
Never mind that a lot of people ARE enjoying the show's evolution. "It's not the way *I* want it." (Stomp foot)
Wonderful news on being renewed!! I think that is great, now I just have to get Sci-fi back!!
Do you think that there may be a correlation between Comcast's "brilliant" moving of the SciFi channel to a more expensive option, and a minor dip in the ratings? Just curious! Bring on the Dish.
Looking forward to the second half of the season to see how Col Mitchell grows on us -- even those that can find nothing good with the show, yet still watch it apparently :-)
Keep up the GREAT work!!!
Oz is a great show, although I did feel a bit awkward that I enjoyed it so much. I have no idea why....
SG1 and SGA renewed! Yay! (with 187 comments before me, I'll keep it brief.)
BritAngie said:
"He's won awards for the acting on the show. Ben is classically trained and went to an esteemed drama school in London and was on Broadway with Dustin Hoffman."
A lot of people, and I do mean a very lot, are classically trained actors. That does not necessarily make them leading men. A leading man either has "it" or he doesn't. Many people just think that Ben Browder doesn't. For whatever reason, that x-factor, that intangible element is something that can't be taught or learned. It's not always fair that some actors have it and some don't, but that's the way it is. Richard Dean Anderson did have "it". He had it on Macgyver and he still had it when he came to SG-1. And for a show that did have that kind of leading man for eight years to change into one that no longer does is, well, sad and disappointing. And very noticable.
And not many people are commenting on Ben Browder's performance on Farscape. They're commenting on his performance on SG-1, which, disappointingly, hasn't been anywhere near as solid as it was on Farscape. He is, however, acting with far better actors than he did on Farscape. Maybe the scripts haven't suited his tastes, maybe he's just not as comfortable in Vancouver as he was in Austalia. Whatever it is, his performance hasn't been as impressive so far. It's been mediocre.
A lot of us thought, orginally, that Ben would make a great fourth. When his addition to the cast was announced, I believed that he was as good a choice as anyone else. And I still think he would be a good fourth. But they are trying to do too much with him. And it's hurting the way he looks onscreen. Major Mitchell, come to the SGC to learn from the best was the best hook they had. They were fools to abandon that tact.
Christopher T.
P.S. 3 cheers for another season and soon to be longest running Scifi series ever!
actually, no, it's not. dr who is in it's 20 somethingth season and is the longest running scifi show ever.
Now stargate will be the longest running american scifi show...a fact that i'm sure will feature prominantly in skiffy's adversising in the next few months. Not to mention print campaings and the such
Skydiver
Joe you rock. I also don't get the Ben/Mitchel bashing. I never saw farscape but think he does a good job with the action and comedy. Just my 2 cents. Also I htink Season 9 is great in its own right. I don't compare it to other seasons of Sg1 because things have changed. Keep up the great work!!!
Kevin
It's not about Mitchell, not about Carter, not about Joe. It's about Vala. She'll be in eight episodes this year, and I dare say nary a one is real, honest to goodness STARGATE. It's some other kind of psuedo-show where some of the characters are familiar, except that they act in a totally different way to how they've been written for the last eight years. It's where plots don't need to make sense, where bad guys are a couple of Star Trek alien smugglers. It's where so long as there's plenty of Vala's tits hanging out and plenty of oblique remarks about said tits, then everyone's happy. It's all wink, wink, nudge, nudge. Why bother with substance or continuity or integrity? Have you seen our sex kitten?
Anyway, that's eight episodes out of twelve that don't even deserve to be called Stargate. And I dare say that number will only increase in Season 10. Congrats Joe, it's one of the fastest falls from the top I can recall in TV history.
James Bradestill
Anomyous coward with a crush on me said "no sweetie, i'm just someone who's watched you go through your various meltdowns over the years."
Oh now not only am I your fantasy woman that you've spent, by your own admission so much time obsessing over for years now, but I'm your sweetie too:)
No wonder you are afraid to let people know who you are. LOL that crush on me must be a big one for you to have been watching me for years and your concern for my 'meltdowns's as you put it is so..touching.
I don't quite know how to take it that you are out there watching over me, but I'm sure you're harmless. I mean you can't even have the courage to admit who you are to this fine folks here in the comments section.
"You're not a villian. Far from it. You're just a person with an overactive imagination and a need for attention."
Ah you say the sweetest things to me too. I've got news for you, we ALL as human beings need attention or we wouldn't interact with each other. Your reading my comments so you can talk to your buddies about them and laugh and make fun of me is just another form of getting attention for yourself. Attention you obviously need.
For you to need something like that in your life to make you feel important or superior is very telling. And for you to act like you are above the need for attention is really a very sad state of denial for you to be in. That RL must not be as satisfying as you would like us to believe, especially if you have to admit to me being your 'sweetie' and your fantasy woman or that you have to keep tabs on my mistakes or misfortunes and gloat about them to make you feel like you are a better person
I feel sorry for you. If it makes your life easier or makes you feel better about yourself to put me down or make fun of me or think gloating over my mistakes or missteps make you feel better about yourself, then I guess it's what you need to do or where you need to be in your life.
Maybe someday you'll have a better opinon of yourself and the courage to stand by your comments under your own name instead of hiding in the shadows. Poor thing:(
A writer once said that a good actor can't fix a bad script, but a bad actor can ruin a good script. Ben has been hamstrung this season by a character that is not nearly fleshed out, by a story that shoves him into the background and barely gives him any lines, by writers who are too timid to let Mitchell be the leader he was hired to be, etc. In other words, Ben does what he can with what he's been give, which isn't much.
To say that the acting is better on SG-1 is truly a fan's perspective.
I've seen Ben in many different projects, not just Farscape, and he's done a great job with each of them. I'd love to see him live up to his lead in the credits, but the writing has to be there first. Ben can't pull it out of thin air, and if the writers are afraid of making fans mad (gee -- I wonder where they'd get that idea!), then Mitchell will never evolve into the kind of compelling character Ben can sink his teeth into. So far, Mitchell has been *written* to be pleasant, enthusiastic, and likeable, a true boy scout. I can't see how in the world anyone could do any more with that than Ben has.
actually, no, it's not. dr who is in it's 20 somethingth season and is the longest running scifi show ever.
Now stargate will be the longest running american scifi show...a fact that i'm sure will feature prominantly in skiffy's adversising in the next few months. Not to mention print campaings and the such
Skydiver
You seem to have quite a big problem with it, don't you? ;) Like some other people in Anti-season 9 (soon season 10) thread?
BTW, you're right about Dr Who when we're talking about YEARS on air, but with the amount of episodes, it's SG-1. Dr Who's seasons contain 8 to 13 episodes each. Do the math.
"A lot of people, and I do mean a very lot, are classically trained actors. That does not necessarily make them leading men. A leading man either has "it" or he doesn't. Many people just think that Ben Browder doesn't. For whatever reason, that x-factor, that intangible element is something that can't be taught or learned. It's not always fair that some actors have it and some don't, but that's the way it is. Richard Dean Anderson did have "it". He had it on Macgyver and he still had it when he came to SG-1. And for a show that did have that kind of leading man for eight years to change into one that no longer does is, well, sad and disappointing. And very noticable."
I so agree with you!!! He just dosen't have IT. It's not the writers... He could be perfect as one of the members but not a leader. Vala can lead more successfullly than him ;)
Joe, glad to see you're keeping up with Alias, Arrested Development, Oz, and Firefly. We've got many of the same shows in our queues.
One thing though: Are you EVER gonna get around to finishing Buffy/Angel? We chatted awhile back and you & your wife had hit a roadbloack during S2 before all the MAJOR stuff happens. I'm dyin' to know if you ever got around to picking up where you left off. See you online!
Awful lot of "bah-humbugs" around here. ;O)
I like Cam, Daniel, Teal'c, Sam. . even Vala, and a day without Walter is a dreary day indeed. Same with SGA. I like the characters and I like the shows, some episodes are better than others, but I watch 'em all. I don't expect TPTB to change anything because of who/what I like/dislike. I'm just along for the ride, and its fun.
Congrats Joe and gang on Seasons 10 & 3. You ALL better be back! :O)
As I said in an earlier post, I'm all about helping people, so can I invite a few of you to take your personal convo to a more appropriate forum, like at whogivesadamn.com. Let's keep all the flaming and bashing comments Stargate related. : )
Joe, I've just re-watched "Origin", and there's one thing you really should do in season 10. A small, just small tribute to Harrid and Salis. After all, these two have died horrible death!
Mera said:
"I so agree with you!!! He just dosen't have IT. It's not the writers... He could be perfect as one of the members but not a leader. Vala can lead more successfullly than him ;)"
I'm with you. Back in December, I welcomed the idea of Ben Browder joining the team. I thought, "Heck, he's at least got to be as good as Jonas was". Right now, I'm thinking I shouldn't have been so cocksure about that sentiment. Like some posters have said, I think he'd be very good as the new fourth member of SG-1. But trying to turn him into Jack O'neill was a huge mistake, one that I thought the producers would be smart enough to avoid. Mitchell is not a lead character, and the idea of him coming in and leading Daniel, Carter, and Teal'c is probably never going to sit right with longtime fans of the show. There are plenty of other characters from the SGC that have a better claim to lead SG-1 than some uber-perfect hero with incredible determination, awesome ever-improving fighting abilities, a crackshot maverick pilot, and the most innate leadership ability. This guy is green. I mean really green. I mean he's as inexperienced as he could possibly be. If they were going to write Mitchell as being as inexperienced as he comes across, then why isn't his thing to actually be "learning"? Like someone else said, why isn't he a Major? Trying to foist him upon us as "the leader" is really doing nothing but sabotaging the character before he even gets a chance.
Joe, I have to say I am glad you called Gateworld on their poll options. The negativity of this place towards anything bar their precious chosen couple on SG1 and Atlantis astounds me. When I wander through the forum and find threads titled "Stargate Cancelled unless Scifi pulls their head out of their Rears, or RDA returns" http://forum.gateworld.net/showthread.php?t=15659, I now understand why the Sony board permanently banned the pro Sam fans there who referred to other fans as "wankers", telling people who had opposing likes them to get their "heads out of their asses", telling other fans their opinions were "crap".
Keep up the great work on SG1.
Sallis and Harrid are toast; forget about them or any kind of tribute. Nobody cares about them.
You know, just like Jack O'neill.
Hey Joe, what happened to Jack? I heard RDA was cutting way back, but has there been an explanation of where or what Jack is doing?
Anomyous coward with a crush on me said "no sweetie, i'm just someone who's watched you go through your various meltdowns over the years."
Oh now not only am I your fantasy woman that you've spent, by your own admission so much time obsessing over for years now, but I'm your sweetie too:)
[snip]
For you to need something like that in your life to make you feel important or superior is very telling. And for you to act like you are above the need for attention is really a very sad state of denial for you to be in. That RL must not be as satisfying as you would like us to believe, especially if you have to admit to me being your 'sweetie' and your fantasy woman or that you have to keep tabs on my mistakes or misfortunes and gloat about them to make you feel like you are a better person
I feel sorry for you. If it makes your life easier or makes you feel better about yourself to put me down or make fun of me or think gloating over my mistakes or missteps make you feel better about yourself, then I guess it's what you need to do or where you need to be in your life.
Maybe someday you'll have a better opinon of yourself and the courage to stand by your comments under your own name instead of hiding in the shadows. Poor thing:(
LOLOL
Whatever drugs you're on, will you please share? these delusions of grandeur are quite amusing.
Carry on please, i can certainly use a laugh
Sallis and Harrid are toast; forget about them or any kind of tribute. Nobody cares about them.
Vala and Daniel recalling what happened, where they've been and what happened to these two would be a nice tribute. And this really should be done.
Oh, and Miss Reed, given that you've decided that I'm stalking you and having fantasies about you and lord only knows what else, I'm ceasing talking to you. I really shouldn't be responsible to playing into your delusions...And I really don't care to have you trying to have the Bobbies track me down either.
Karen
As the soap dish turns....
It should be noted that the ONLINE FANDOM of SG makes up what?????
2% or LESS of the overall fan base????
Hmmmmm....and you all wonder why no one listens to you cry when things aren't going your way.
******
Joe, keep up the good work and continue to enjoy the blather and rants of jealous actor wanna-be's....
I love SG for what it was and what it signified. Enjoy the success as I don't see any other programs who've accomplished what SG has....
Jen
Karen (look my lovey dovey obsessed over me has a name now, but is that her real name?)wrote:
"Oh, and Miss Reed, given that you've decided that I'm stalking you and having fantasies about you and lord only knows what else, I'm ceasing talking to you. I really shouldn't be responsible to playing into your delusions...And I really don't care to have you trying to have the Bobbies track me down either."
Ah boobala you fickle pickle are you trying to break my heart? First you say you I'm your sweetie and now you won't talk to me anymore.
Ah well you win some, you lose some:) I guess I won't miss any sleep over the loss.
Oh and that comment about sending Bobbies after you to track you down (only in your fantasies boobala), are you trying to make these people think I will miss you and have a meltdown over it?
Why I think you are, you naughty little minx you LOL. You must really miss that fantasy world.
Bye-bye Karen (or whatever your real name is..to me you will always be the one who wants me as her fantasy woman LOL).
anoymous posting Elf said:
"LOLOL
Whatever drugs you're on, will you please share? these delusions of grandeur are quite amusing.
Carry on please, i can certainly use a laugh"
Yes Karen is quite amusing isn't she,what with her obsession with me and all. Creating this fantasy world where she watches over me.
I don't know if she takes drugs or not. Of course that's a pretty nasty rumor to start about someone one isn't it.
Oh well now she has gone and abandoned me. Her loss not mine LOL.
It is pretty funny isn't it:)
I'm glad you are amused by it. Did you smile a big smile and laugh outloud? I hope so. Sometimes the blog comments section needs a little lightening up and some humor:)
You know, when I first started watching Stargate; it was because I was extremely ill and couldn’t even move for days on end. I was faced with staring at a wall or watching TV. But then I saw Stargate and it took only a few episodes to fall in love with the program and all of the actors – even those I’d never seen before. I got involved with the online fandom shortly thereafter, mostly because I wanted to figure out what I had missed as it was season four syndication when I started watching.
Up until the last two years I really enjoyed being part of the online fandom too and especially watching the program progress. I’ve never – EVER – been as impressed with a television program as much as I have this one. I’m impressed with the actors, particularly Amanda Tapping, the stories, the overall quality, and very much more so with the writers. It can’t be easy to come up with material week after week and still be able to entertain the majority of viewers.
But, after the past two years of watching the online fandom turn into a war zone, I finally quit. I’m tired and in pain all the time now because of my illness. I used to come here to get some distraction from life, to have just a little bit of fun and a few minutes where I didn’t have to worry or feel about anything else. But I can’t do it anymore, so I’m letting it all go while I still remember why I watched and enjoyed Stargate in the first place.
Thanks for the memories Joe! Don’t let them beat you too…
Hi Joe. I wouldn't normally post but there's so much negativity here I thought I'd jump in.
First off, congratulations on the renewals.
Secondly, I'm loving S9. I was disapointed with the previous 2 seasons and contemplated not comming back for S9 but after hearing about all the changes I decided to give it a go and I'm glad I did. I'm finding the direction of the show really interesting and think it's quite brave in the present climat to take on fundementalism. So far I think it's been handled pretty well.
I'm loving Daniel this season (and I was never really a Daniel fan before). I don't know how much is the writing and how much is an acting choice, but it seems to me that a cranky and pissed Daniel is a realistic depiction of someone who's been through all he has, thought he could relax slightly and then get pulled back into the thick of things. I'm finding him intreiging(sp) this season and look forward to seeing where the show goes with the character.
I'm enjoying Mitchell. I think BB was a good choice, a very talented actor with a wide range, also looking forward to seeing where you take him.
Teal'c and the Jaffa stuff is pretty good, the slaves becomming like their former masters and not really being able to get to grips with the concept of "free will" is quite potent, I look forward to seeing how the Jaffa Nation develops.
Good to see Sam back. As someone who's been FForwarding though Sam over the past couple of years, thank you for helping me to like her again.
Love Vala, glad she's going to be around more in S10 (although I am pretty worried about the "baby" storyline, they rarely turn out well in SciFi shows).
Overall I happier with SG1 than I have been for a number of years and I'm really looking forward to the second half of the season.
I can sort of understand why some people are upset with the show at the moment but it's by no means all of us. If the next 10 episodes average out as good as the first 10 I'll be happy and tuning in for S10. :o)
yabyumpan
Kalliope said You seem to have quite a big problem with it, don't you? ;) Like some other people in Anti-season 9 (soon season 10) thread?
BTW, you're right about Dr Who when we're talking about YEARS on air, but with the amount of episodes, it's SG-1. Dr Who's seasons contain 8 to 13 episodes each. Do the math
Way to go K. Keep on demonstrating the kind of attitude that gives ALL of us fans a bad name - namely bashing other fans who are coming here just like you to state their opinions instead of just stating your own opinion of the show or Joe's blog and moving on.
As I recall the words you are twisting around this time were about a statement of fact concerning the number of years/seasons Stargate had been on the air. "Long running" is a measurement of time measured in years, or in this case, the number of seasons a series has been on the air, a standard measurement by TV shows. The blogger the commenter was responding to did not make a quantity comparison (which would be "the greatest number of episodes.")
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
As far as me Joe - I'll keep watching to the end of this season and make my decision then of whether or not to let the show (and its fandom) turn into a pleasant memory of something that was truly special. Right now it just doesn't seem like the same show that I've been watching for a while - you know - the one that grabbed me like no other had in a long, long time... no matter how much I love seeing the original characters (and the actors who play them) and no matter how much I truly appreciate the charisma and acting skill that Ben and Claudia have brought to their roles. Well, all of this has definitely been an interesting experience, that's for sure. :-)
You know what it is Joe? It's not that season nine is absolutely awful. It's just that it is the worst season so far. Out of all nine seasons, right now, season nine ranks right at the bottom. And I'm not saying that as a crazy fan of any of the characters. Because I'm not. I like Carter. Always have. I like Daniel. Always have. And, you guessed it, I like Teal'c too. Yes, Jack is right in their with them. But, more than I like any of the individual characters, I like them when they're together. And that just hasn't happened at all in season nine. You know why no one cares about Mitchell? Because SG-1 acts like they don't care. The characterization in the first half of this season has been as weak as it has ever been. That's what makes this season so lackluster so far. And I'm not here to issue any ultimatums or slam any of the actors. I'm just trying to offer some criticism, to tell you why I think this season isn't being so well recieved. Anyway, I hope for better. I know you guys can do it.
Alex
Marla, The Journalist wrote:
Yes Karen is quite amusing isn't she, what with her obsession with me and all. Creating this fantasy world where she watches over me.
Oh, for Christ's sake. The only one obsessed with you is you.
Joe,
It's been said that Bill Clinton rarely made a decision without checking with the the polls - to see which way the wind was blowing. And it seems to me that the writers of Stargate SG-1 seems to be doing the same thing. As others have said, maybe 2% of the entire viewing spends time on-line airing their views, and the majority of those people, though not all, are just like special interests groups. They want *their* favorite character to have more screen time, or their favorite *pairing* to have more screen time. And apparently, you view these 2% opinions with a great deal of seriousness and pander to them. Do you really think these special interest groups represent the views of the casual viewer? I don't at all.
Why do I say that? I can't see the Mitchell situation as anything but that. I loved Ben on Farscape and couldn't wait until he started on SG-1, but so far I think the character is very bland. Two colonels on a team being co-leaders? Come on; that is one of the lamest scenarios I've ever seen. Either make Mitchell the leader, let him be the leader, or make someone else the leader. You can't keep sitting on the fence, letting Carter and Mitchell share leadership just so you don't alienate one group or the other. Once you start letting this 2% of fandom direct what you are going to do, you've lost control.
Get off the fence, Joe.
Damn, I am sick and tired of hearing over and over and over, and, you guessed it, over again about Ben Browder's great "range". I think even his most ardent supporters would agree that we've not seen the stellar, can't-be-missed "acting" that everyone touts. If he's got it, use it. But quit telling me it's there and start showing me.
Can Miss Marla (journalist) and her admirers please take it elsewhere? Most of the people here don't give a flying damn about you guys and your childish hysterics. At least all the other hysterics here have had something to do with Stargate...
kalliope - "You seem to have quite a big problem with it, don't you? ;) Like some other people in Anti-season 9 (soon season 10) thread?"
Cute K, but I take everything you say about Stargate fans with a grain of salt, seeing how you only care about Stargate because of your beloved Vala. If TPTB killed her off I bet you'd be in that anti thread griping too.
Thanks Joe for listening (and for setting those straight who need to be).
And congrats on the renewal! I'm thrilled. I love the old and the new team. One favor though: Can we get Peter Williams back for maybe one or two (or 15) episodes? It's sci-fi right? You could swing it! :)
"No one likes..." Translation "Some people don't like..."
"Everyone loves..."
Translation "Some people love...
"We all hate"
Translation "Some people hate..."
Any sweeping generalization
Translation: The poster feels that way, and some people agree, but never everyone.
If I find second half of the season to be as good as I found the first, I'll be completely excited about season 10. For now, congratulations.
Dani347
Oh jeez, I haven't been here in ages and I gotta say I'm appalled what's going on. Wanting one actor to appear more or a certain couple together or not are all things I can understand, even some of the extreme reactions. But something's gotta happen here. There's talk of Ben's huge ego, Amanda is apparently ugly and fat and RDA is a rapist. Ugh, what's wrong here? I've met both Ben and Amanda and they're both very nice and gracious, down to earth people, beautiful inside and out. Re RDA seeing as who is spreading the rumours I think any more comments are completely unnecessary. I'm sure that so called friend is as real as all of her 500 aliases, the only place she needs to go is a nice padded white room.
I hope you, Joe know who she is.
And please I understand you want feedback and all, but if people are slamming the actors themselves I think it's time to do something a bit more drastic and shut this thing down.
Petra
Anymonous Coward wrote: "Oh, and folks, lay off Marlalala. All you're doing is feeding her victim syndrome and giving her something to whine about. I'm sure she'll be posting next about receiving threats and how persecuted she is."
Marla Reed said...::::::.....Ah sorry to disapoint you, but no one has threatened me and I don't feel the slightest bit persecuted or see anything victimizing me. Not a single whine to be had LOL........::::::::
Really? Because over at the fandomwank site, there is a thread from the owner detailing how you have claimed copyright over 3 separate sentences from your LJ that others have posted there. 2 of the sentences are your comments about RDA's alleged sexual harassment of your "friend", and the other is from one of your 'fanfics'.
You apparently claimed it's a breech of copyright laws because you wrote it and you'll see them in court if they don't take them down, but copyright doesn't seem to stop you posting large chunks out of assorted magazines all over the net. From what I can see the owners are happy to take you to court.
So you have said you don't feel threatened, good for you.
BTW, whatever did happen after RDA's lawyers sent you those letters you posted to the internet a few years ago?
Dave
Ouch. 1.4 for Atlantis in syndie. 1.7 for SG-1. Well, you know what they say about cream rising and all.
Joe,
I just read a thread over at Our Stargate about Mitchell being in charge. Even a few posters over there seem to have come around to idea that Mitchell leading SG-1 is absolutely preposterous. He's just too inexperienced to lead THIS SG team.
Anyway, congratulations. You guys have finally found one issue that the Daniel Fans, Carter Fans, Shippers, Anti-shippers, Jack lovers and Jack haters can all agree upon. The idea of the Mitchell character leading SG-1 is ludicrous.
Couple of observations:
Marla Reed and all her haters/supporters: I have nfi who you all are and I dont really care. Take your bitchfest (both sides) someplace else k thx.
Kalliope: How about YOU do the math? According to IMDB Dr Who has had 679 episodes. Stargate hasn't even done 200 yet... Even using your rough example you so generously provided, Dr Who still comes out on top...
Babyface said...
Joe, I have to say I am glad you called Gateworld on their poll options. The negativity of this place towards anything bar their precious chosen couple on SG1 and Atlantis astounds me. When I wander through the forum and find threads titled "Stargate Cancelled unless Scifi pulls their head out of their Rears, or RDA returns" http://forum.gateworld.net/showthread.php?t=15659, I now understand why the Sony board permanently banned the pro Sam fans there who referred to other fans as "wankers", telling people who had opposing likes them to get their "heads out of their asses", telling other fans their opinions were "crap".
Keep up the great work on SG1.
rofl! So it seems that the fans at Sony are only concerned about their own precious character. Take note: Not a single bad word ever gets uttered about Daniel at the Sony forums, yet they have no problem tearing down other characters. I dare you to find that same kind of 'objectivity' at GateWorld (that was sarcasm for anyone who fails at it). But I dont see why this blog should be turned into a 'Our site is better than yours' (kinda ironic that people who dont like GateWorld come over here to tell us that. If you dont like GW, PISS OFF)
And someone else said this, but I'll repeat it again: Fandom would be so much better without the fans. Good call.
actually, no, it's not. dr who is in it's 20 somethingth season and is the longest running scifi show ever.
Now stargate will be the longest running american scifi show...a fact that i'm sure will feature prominantly in skiffy's adversising in the next few months. Not to mention print campaings and the such
Skydiver
You seem to have quite a big problem with it, don't you? ;) Like some other people in Anti-season 9 (soon season 10) thread?
BTW, you're right about Dr Who when we're talking about YEARS on air, but with the amount of episodes, it's SG-1. Dr Who's seasons contain 8 to 13 episodes each. Do the math.
Hate to disagree Kalli but the old format Doctor who was not 8 episodes but 8 serials/story arcs made up of 3 to 5 episodes. Dr Who is in the 700 episode range at the moment. Even if you matched it time for time Dr who would work out with 400 eps. Doctor is really the longest sci fi series and we are series 20 something at the moment.
For me, i personally found s6 to be the most enjoyable of the recent seasons. I think my list kinda goes
6
3
4
2
1
5
9,8,7
All things change and it's a 'must do' if a show is to last. HOwever, while some may certainly enjoy some of the changes, they don't do much for me.
I've no issue with Ben being the boss, although the character of Cameron needs some work. I know that folks seem to be going for the 'wide eyed innocent' and to have a repeat of the jonas type of enthusiasm...but that's an attitude that works best for a member of the team, not the leader. Cameron doesn't seem very leaderish in the first ten episodes. He's so flip that it's too easy to dismiss him and question just how he got to be a lt colonel and precisly what his qualifications are to be leading earth's flagship team.
Lam is...there. She hasn't been on enough to adequately have an impression of her. Much the same with Landry.
Vala....sigh. Vala, TO ME, is so shallow most of the time that she's more farcical than 'real'. I'm sure she's a blast to write and fun for claudia to play and mabye if she was on antoher show I personally would find her more fun. However, her rather base humor just doesn't fit in with the classy image that Stargate has had for most of 9 years.
PRior to s9, i never would have considered that Stargate would do some silly 'humorous' plot twist, like everyone losing thier clothes or some other silly idea. But after 6 episodes of vala, it now wouldn't surprise me.
I did enjoy the peeks of her 'ex-host' personna and it would be interesting to see that explored. but that's been an option with Sam since season 2 and has never been touched, so i doubt that that tact will ever be taken. Off-color jokes are, of course, more fun adn easier to write.
Humor is a dangerous thing to play with, however, since it is so very subjective and such a hard target to hit.
I'm happy for you guys' sake that you got another year. unemployment is never fun....can't say that i personally am looking forward to it much though.
The show is changing to something that doesn't appeal to me as much so it's hard to work up any enthusiasm over it.
good luck
Skydiver
congrats on getting reupped for another year!!
yayz!!! season 10!!!!
Hey Joe, just watched Origin last night in the UK. It was pretty good, though I'm not too sure about Vala being in so many episodes. Small doses and all that.
My question isn't about that though. I've been trying to avoid spoilers, but have still seen a couple of things I wish I hadn't. Are you guys seriously trying to turn Mitchell into SG-1's leader? What kind of crazy nonlogic is that? First you tell us he's never even seen a stargate, never been offworld, then you want us to accept that he's in command of Carter, Daniel, and Teal'c? He doesn't even act like a leader. This seems like a very wrong decision, and one that contradicts EVERYTHING that has been done and said in previous seasons. Remember Lockdown, that script you wrote? You know, the whole "slick resume" spiel and all? Well, Mitchell is that guy with a slick resume. Remember Shades of Grey, when Daniel and Teal'c had a problem with Carter (the most qualified person) not getting command of SG-1 because she was a Major? This just makes no sense at all, and is likely to cause problems for fans, if it's not already.
Right now I'm torn between wanting to read spoilers for upcoming episodes to see what's going on and being absolutely terrified that you guys are ruining the show.
Robby
I just heard:
CONGRATULATIONS ON THE RENEWAL!
Hey Davey:
"We're sorry, but the buttons you are trying to push have been disconnected and are no longer in service in this fandom."
Hey Joe,
Congrats on getting season 10!!!
Don't mind the trolls. I'm sure you know they don't represent fandom in general. They're a loud, tiny, boring segment of the population that keep mistaking bitchy with analytical. The only thing trolls do is give fandom a bad name.
Rock on Joe! I look forward to the rest of season 9 and the chance to see how this team will gell, and how Mitchell will take his position as the leader of SG-1. Browder is a fantastic and award winning actor. Give him the material and he won't let you down. But I'm sure YOU know that already.
So bring it on Joe. Let's see what you've got for us!
Anoymous said:
"Can Miss Marla (journalist) and her admirers please take it elsewhere? Most of the people here don't give a flying damn about you guys and your childish hysterics. At least all the other hysterics here have had something to do with Stargate..."
Miss Marla was talking about stargate. Freshie and my boobala Karen came along and changed the subject to make it all about me cause they love me and can't stop talking about me:)
I agree this needs to go somewhere else. All the love is just too big for this place!
Thanks for pointing that out.
Miss Marla Appreciates you for that:)
"Marla, The Journalist wrote:
Yes Karen is quite amusing isn't she, what with her obsession with me and all. Creating this fantasy world where she watches over me.
Oh, for Christ's sake. The only one obsessed with you is you."
Boobala Karen is that you? Are you speaking to me again. Gosh you have such a hard time staying away from me.
No I won't call the bobbies on you, but can I call the petey's huh, huh can I huh? You know you love it when I do that.
That's right, Joe. Every single person who has posted here about Ben Browder and his new role is a troll. We don't have SG-1's best interest at heart. And, of course, it's obviously your material that is holding the award winning actor back. Nevermind the fact that SG-1 has been around more than twice as long as said actor's previous show, nevermind the fact that SG-1 and various SG-1 actors have already won numerous awards acting your shoddy, blantantly sub-par material, nevermind the fact that so far Ben Browder has been mediocre at best. All of that is irrelevant because, after all, we're just trolls. It's not like we've been watching SG-1 since the beginning or anything. It's not like we want the show to be as good as it once was. No, YOU guys should just be on your hands and knees kissing Ben Browder's ass because he deigned you folks up at Bridge worthy enough to work for. After all, producers and directors for a multitude of projects were beating Ben's door down just hoping to convince him to do a cameo in their next projects. Just consider yourself lucky. You and everyone else who has made SG-1 a success for the last eight years.
Marla, do you hear the doorbell? That's the mental health technicans coming for you. You're scaring people now. Step away from the keyboard.
As for Mitchell, my guess is that they're developing the character slowly. He has the rest of SG-1 for a team; he doesn't need to be an expert on off-world stuff, he just needs to be a leader. What has he done so far? He's gotten the team back together (no easy feat) and he's learned some awesome hand to hand technics legitimately. It would have been wrong if he'd been in top form from day one because it would have been unrealistic (does anyone remember Jonas? Probably not.) Mitchell should be the leader of SG-1. It's unrealistic to have Carter do everything, otherwise why not just have SG-Sam? Mitchell is entertaining. I like him. Browder is just fine as an actor. Mitchell is a character who is dependent on his lines in the script. Would you really want Browder to emote over the simpliest lines? Get some perspective.
Vala is entertaining, I get a kick out of her. I would be so happy if she had more presence in Season 10.
Carter isn't stalking Jack. What a relief!
Teal'c says some lines! Whoo hoo!!!
Daniel has a cluster of stories about him at the beginning of the season, and apparently some fans think the world is coming to an end. How sad.
Season 10? Excellent idea. Maybe those 'fans' that only want romance can go to the bookstore. I think you want the Harlequin section.
Anonymous #789,456
Are you kidding me? This is Teal'c's worst season yet. Can't you people read media? They've told you already that his entire Jaffa story from the opening three parter got cut for time. You know, more Vala, less Teal'c.
And what kind of asinine opinion says that Mitchell doesn't need to be qualified so long as he has Carter, Daniel and Teal'c with him? So bascially you agree that he does nothing and is extraneous. Good, we're finding common ground. He got the team back together? Why was this hard? What did he do? From what we've been told Carter was ordered to report to duty at SGC, Daniel missed his flight to Pegasus, and Teal'c, well, no one knows why Teal'c came back. That must've got cut too. Seems to me like Mitchell is the happy victim of circumstance yet again, just like surviving that plane crash which got him promoted to SG-1, the CMH, and apparently, the love and thanks of everyone in the military.
You say it's unrealistic to have Carter do everything, I say it's far more unrealistic to have Mitchell do nothing. And its telling that you're worried about Carter even when she's not there in the first five episodes. I think this is a personal problem for you rather than a real problem for the show. And it's good that you mention Jonas, because the parallels with Mitchell really do exist. The writing him away from the team, being a non-player in the stories' eventual resolutions, the very conscious blocking to minimize the character--it's all the same as with Jonas.
I understand that Ben Browder fans are mad, I understand that Daniel fans are happy right now, but the fact remains that this version of SG-1 is barely treading water right now. Carter, Teal'c and Daniel have had a grand total of TWO scenes together in the first half of season nine, a brief meeting in Babylon and when they solved the problem in Prototype. That's deplorable, and it's certainly not the team aspect EVERY corner of fandom used to cry out for. Right now SG-1 isn't a team, and Mitchell, by choice of the writers, doesn't look capable of making them one.
Of course, he's still leading his romantic, marty-sue life, so at least there's that.
Joe: I look forward to seeing more of Mitchell in the second half of the season. I think Ben and his character have had a slow start. However after the nasty burn left by how Jonas was introduced and just as quickly vanquished as the mistake he was, I can understand wanting to avoid that problem with Mitchell.
Nice news about season 10 btw
Nice review of Babylon in SFX. They're apparently as unimpressed with classically trained, award winning Ben Browder as the rest of us. Ouch again.
"Marla, do you hear the doorbell? That's the mental health technicans coming for you. You're scaring people now. Step away from the keyboard."
Excellent advice. Marla, you agree that you need to take this crap elsewhere and then your just keep on playing your game in your next post? If titling yourself as a journalist isn't a blatant cry for attention then your enjoyment at taking over Joe's blog surely is. Have some respect for the man and let it die already.
I would like to talk about Browder, but every time I think about Mitch I'm subject to mysterious bouts of narcolepsy.
man...i miss the days where i was paying attention to gateworld and i was like THIRD to make a comment (its what i get for planning a wedding in two months)
i think ben browder is a great actor! The jokes about how cameron and daniel are similar looking are great!
yay to season 10! make ep 200 spectacular!! if cameron says "boom goes the dynamite" then uh...brownie points! or something
movie/anime recs - none...el hazard is good but an old one and you've probably seen it anyway. toni takitani will be out shortly on dvd but havent seen it yet. Doom the movie was...well its more entertaining if you drink first. i'll watch something interesting this weekend!
"I would like to talk about Browder, but every time I think about Mitch I'm subject to mysterious bouts of narcolepsy."
Ha! Nicely put. Now if he could just stop putting the rest of SG-1 to sleep along with the audience...
Or maybe it's all just a clever plan? If we're asleep, then we won't think about the wonder that is Mitchell too hard. Then the character might really grate.
commenting on many different things ppl have said... this is ALL just my OPINION.
(i'm not going to comment on actors, just characters)
*sam doesn't do *everything*. she's got her niche, just like the other members of the team. she can mulitask with the best of them.
*mitchell is good, but he isn't needed to command sg1. sam is more qualified than him, so why not let her do it?
*teal'c is a recurring character more than a lead this season.
*vala is too much. of everything.
*sam never stalked jack.
*daniel isn't the lead. anymore than sam, teal'c, or mitchell are. they're *all* co-leads.
*the team isn't feeling very teamy.
*i liked jonas quinn. he was the best thing that ever happened to teal'c.
thus ends my opinions. bye.
sally :)
Anonymous said...
Nice review of Babylon in SFX. They're apparently as unimpressed with classically trained, award winning Ben Browder as the rest of us. Ouch again.
And apparently the poll over at the Solutions site agree as of now:
My favourite SG-1 team character is:
Jack O'Neill 127
Daniel Jackson 273
Samantha Carter 104
Teal'c 31
Cameron Mitchell 25
Jonas Quinn 5
Total votes: 565
LaCroix
Let me amend my post that is as of 10/27/05.
LaCroix
I could have *swore* there was Teal'c content during the Vala eps. Wasn't there a lot of scenes of him in political conflict with Gerak? Maybe I got a specially edited version, or maybe you just ff past his scenes? Which is more likely?
Mitchell is there to lead. He lead a squadron before. Let's turn this around: What qualifications did Jack have to be with SG-1? Not an astrophysicist, not a archeologist, not a lingist. If I recall my canon, he just stood around a lot, listening to his experts then making command decisions. He liked to blow things up, but Carter is also skilled in that. He was also quite lucky. Mitchell also appears to be lucky. I think he's just as qualified as Jack was on his first day on the job.
Besides, what would you have? Should he come in wearing a cape and spandex leotards? I think you won't give him a break because he's 'taken Sam's command.' Personally, I'm forever grateful he has. And if I had to choose whose unit I'd choose to be posted to, I'd pick Mitchell. Carter's fixated on her old CO, or becoming an object of desire to every male alien they meet. What a mess!
Mitchell is the opposite of Jonas. I've yet to hear anyone tell Mitchell he's a valued member of the team, ad nauseum.
Mitchell, Daniel and Teal'c had many, many scenes together. When Carter rejoined the action in Beachhead, what do I see? Oh look! Scenes with all four of them together! Funny how you neglected to mention that. The next ep was Ex Deus Machina, and whoa! Looky there! Another scene with all of them together, one where Mitchell gets them to accept their SG1 patches. You forgot about that one too! Must be something wrong with your reception? Then there's Babylon (an ep designed to focus on Mitchell) and Prototype. Didn't they go through the gate together on Protoype? You forgot to mention that, too. Seems like there were a lot of team moments, but you don't count them. How very selective you are.
I still like Mitchell, and I'm looking forward to getting to know him. Browder is just fine.
Anonymous #789456
I would like to talk about Browder, but every time I think about Mitch I'm subject to mysterious bouts of narcolepsy.
LOL. That about sums it up for me as well.
You know why no one has said Mitchell is a "valued member of the team"? You guessed it, he's not.
Oh yeah,
Anonymous #666
Anonymous #789456 said:
"Let's turn this around..."
Yeah, you'd better try and turn this around, because if we keep focusing on Mitchell and the way things are now even you can't deny the idiocy of your position. A position that, apparently, equates with, "I agree. He's useless. But it's ok. Look, new shiny!"
And you're absolutely right. Jack should never have been on SG-1. Good argument.
My God, you people really are desperate.
Anoymous #wrote:
Seems like there were a lot of team moments, but you don't count them. How very selective you are.
3 or 4 people who work together, being in the same place at the same time does not a team make. Where is the caring? Where is the friendship? Some people cite the 4 of them (Vala, not Sam) playing basketball as meaning they are all close buddies; that's a special team moment for them. I think that's really grasping at straws. There are many people with whom I play soccer and we sure in heck aren't close friends or buddies.
Show me a team with people who act like they care about each other. That's what I want. And I want to see Thor again and I want to be told where Jack is and I want to hear at least one of his "friends" say they miss him and I want to eat pie while I watch the show and be really entertained and engaged again. Such simple desires.
Maki Jensen, Brain Surgeon
Calling those scenes you mention "team moments" is an insult to the last eight years of SG-1.
First, let me say, I think Mitchell is doing a great job. In the short time he's been with us, he has done a better job, imo, of leading and getting the job done than Sam ever has, who is great in the science department, but woefully lacking in leadership skills, imo. I also think that Ben Browder is doing an excellent job in a hard situation. I think that some people might be seeing him as invisible because they don't want to see him, because they might want to see Sam, Daniel, Vala, Jack, or maybe even Jonas front and center the majority of the time.
So for those who seem to have a tough time with Browder in the leader role, who would you like to see in the role? For sake of this argument, it can't be Amanda, Corin, or Rick, for various reasons known and unknown to us. It also has to be an American because SciFi is carrying the brunt of the production costs and they only reach an American audience (it can't be Canadian until the Canadians step up and carry the brunt of the costs or a Brit until Sky steps up and carries the brunt of the costs). The person has to be available, meaning not on another show, has to have some kind of recognition with American SF audiences so the general audience will tune in, has to have enough experience behind him/her so that SciFi will be confident that he/she can carry off the lead role week after week, has sufficient command presence to make himself/herself believable in the role, is capable of playing to blank walls (blue screens, green screens), can handle action sequences (running, jumping, tumbling -- the kind of stuff our guys do), can handle humor, has good acting chops so isn't blown off the stage by the others and is in the general price range that they can afford on the budget they have (in other words, around BB's quote, whatever that is). Maybe if you try to put a list like that together, you'll see what a daunting job these guys went through when casting. And maybe the choice of BB will look better in your eyes.
Anonymous said:
"The person has to be available, meaning not on another show, has to have some kind of recognition with American SF audiences so the general audience will tune in, has to have enough experience behind him/her so that SciFi will be confident that he/she can carry off the lead role week after week, has sufficient command presence to make himself/herself believable in the role, is capable of playing to blank walls (blue screens, green screens), can handle action sequences (running, jumping, tumbling -- the kind of stuff our guys do), can handle humor, has good acting chops so isn't blown off the stage by the others and is in the general price range that they can afford on the budget they have (in other words, around BB's quote, whatever that is). Maybe if you try to put a list like that together, you'll see what a daunting job these guys went through when casting. And maybe the choice of BB will look better in your eyes."
Yeah, as has been said, initially many of us thought that Browder would do better, fit in better, than he has. The problem is that so far he's sucked. End of story. It's been a disappointment all the way around with Mitchell. And your argument basically reads, "Well, he's the best we could find. Sorry." And I don't think these guys had too much of a job casting Browder. I've a sneaking suspicion Scifi said, "Browder", and that was it. Doesn't seem to have been too much input from Bridge. Except for the endless propaganda, of course.
The difference between O'Neill and Mitchell for #789456 is that Mitchell has come from leading a Fighter Squadron to being on a ground team. O'Neill on the other hand had alot of experience in ground combat and special forces operations. The problem I have with Mitchell (A certified flyboy) is just that - he's a flyboy. I don't see how a pilot in command of a fighter squadron (something that you don't reach overnight, it takes alot of time and training for it) should suddenly be in command of a ground team.
O'Neill had plenty of experience in just that though, coming from his Special Forces background. Which makes him alot more qualified to be leading than Mitchell is.
Oh, yeah, and Richard Dean Anderson actually was a bona fide star. And he was the star of SG-1. Browder is neither.
It's really nice to see some constructive and articulate and well argued points on here in such a good spirit of sci fi fandom.
NOT!
Really good way of making stargate fans look like normal and reasonable people.*rolls eyes*
*Gives round of applause to the trolls.*
"Yeah, as has been said, initially many of us thought that Browder would do better, fit in better, than he has. The problem is that so far he's sucked. End of story. It's been a disappointment all the way around with Mitchell. And your argument basically reads, "Well, he's the best we could find. Sorry." And I don't think these guys had too much of a job casting Browder. I've a sneaking suspicion Scifi said, "Browder", and that was it. Doesn't seem to have been too much input from Bridge. Except for the endless propaganda, of course."
The above is copied over from your post so you can see which anonymous I'm addressing...
Look, I don't want to engage in a battle, but in case you didn't notice, Browder fits the criteria listed above. You can look at it as 'sorry, he's the best we could find' or you can look at it as 'wow, he fits the bill of everything we need and we like him and we want to work with him'.... At the end of the day, it's a business to be run and business decisions to be made.
Instead of denigrating the guy, why don't you come up with other possibilities that would fit the criteria they need. After all, if it were true and he didn't make the grade as far as the writers, producers, and execs were concerned, they would need to find someone else for season 10. However, it seems from all the comments made that they feel he did everything they asked him to do. In the end what matters is that if they asked him to lead from the background or play low-key, he lead from the background and played low-keyed. If they asked him to step up and take center stage, he stood up and took center stage. He did what they paid him to do... and did it well enough for them to be enthusiastic about him.
While the audience obviously has a say in whether it watches or not, there are people that do not think as you do... that do not think he sucked... who think he has fit in quite nicely... who feel he's done a good job of replacing Jack without trying to be Jack.
And maybe he was on SciFi's short list, but then why wouldn't he be? He already fits the criteria they need and the execs already know they can work with him, like him, and want to work with him again. But I also don't think you have much of a basis for implying that Bridge didn't have much say in it. Joe has already said, here or in his Q&A, that they had approached Ben to do one or two episodes in earlier years and he turned them down, I think, or perhaps the timing just didn't work out. Ben said at a panel with Claudia at Comicon -- and it may have been in jest, for all I know -- he told them he wanted a five episode arc in which he got to kick MS's ass like Claudia did. It seems like a logical choice that if Bridge liked him enough to want to offer him roles in their episodics, they'd consider him when they were casting principals as well. I don't think SciFi had to twist their arms to do it.
And if SciFi did twist their arms, well, SciFi happens to be paying the brunt of the production costs... as in, without their money, no new season, period, end of discussion. You do expect a voice in what you pay for, don't you? If you were buying a house to be designed and built, you'd want it to have the features that you are comfortable living with and willing to pay for, wouldn't you?
And think about this... when they hired RDA to star in the show, they weren't hiring Tom Cruise (as in 'A'-list movie actor) -- they were probably hiring the best they could find at the time who could deliver the kind of show they needed for the price range their budget could afford... and deliver it he did.
And guys, please don't take that last sentence as dismissing the contributions of the others... I know how important they all are to the show's success. But it's not germaine to what I was discussing here.
Anonymous #789456 said:
I could have *swore* there was Teal'c content during the Vala eps. Wasn't there a lot of scenes of him in political conflict with Gerak? Maybe I got a specially edited version, or maybe you just ff past his scenes? Which is more likely?
Mitchell is there to lead. He lead a squadron before. Let's turn this around: What qualifications did Jack have to be with SG-1? Not an astrophysicist, not a archeologist, not a lingist. If I recall my canon, he just stood around a lot, listening to his experts then making command decisions. He liked to blow things up, but Carter is also skilled in that. He was also quite lucky. Mitchell also appears to be lucky. I think he's just as qualified as Jack was on his first day on the job.
Besides, what would you have? Should he come in wearing a cape and spandex leotards? I think you won't give him a break because he's 'taken Sam's command.' Personally, I'm forever grateful he has. And if I had to choose whose unit I'd choose to be posted to, I'd pick Mitchell. Carter's fixated on her old CO, or becoming an object of desire to every male alien they meet. What a mess!
Mitchell is the opposite of Jonas. I've yet to hear anyone tell Mitchell he's a valued member of the team, ad nauseum.
Mitchell, Daniel and Teal'c had many, many scenes together. When Carter rejoined the action in Beachhead, what do I see? Oh look! Scenes with all four of them together! Funny how you neglected to mention that. The next ep was Ex Deus Machina, and whoa! Looky there! Another scene with all of them together, one where Mitchell gets them to accept their SG1 patches. You forgot about that one too! Must be something wrong with your reception? Then there's Babylon (an ep designed to focus on Mitchell) and Prototype. Didn't they go through the gate together on Protoype? You forgot to mention that, too. Seems like there were a lot of team moments, but you don't count them. How very selective you are.
I still like Mitchell, and I'm looking forward to getting to know him. Browder is just fine.
-----------------------------------
OK, five bucks says this person is from Sony. Any takers?!
BTW, nice opinions sally. I totally agree. ;)
Here's to the second half,
the dancer of spaz
Dancer, Dancer, Dancer.
Can't you leave your rhetoric for the Sam and Jack thread? We've heard your manifesto a million times, and we get enough of you spamming our thread on Gateworld to last us a lifetime or 5. We don't need you uselessly cluttering up Joe's blog too.
As for agreeing with Little Missy Sally, I mean really! Like that is a shock!
Yawn, just go back into your little burrow and play nice with you little friend.
I have to admit I find highly amusing that so many of the people who have never given a damn before about Teal'c standing around propping up walls and uttering the occasional "Indeed" have suddenly added lack of screen time for Teal'c as yet another item on their ever growing list of what's wrong with season 9. I just have to wonder why they think that's the case when both CJ and Ben Browder have comment that Chris has had more to do in just a few episodes of season 9 than he has had in whole seasons in the past. Could it be that they really have never actually watched anything on their screens beyond straining their eyes to see if maybe, possibly, if you squint just the right way and hold your mouth just so, it looks a little bit like Jack maybe, kinda, sorta possibly brushed fingers with his pwecious Samikins thus proving for the whole world to see that it's LOVE dammit! and not just terminal indigestion. I'm sure Mr Judge would thank you for your concern but he seems rather happy with his level of involvement this year from the interviews I've read and has indeed lost far more screen time to the ubiquitous Ms Tapping and her ever-expanding bosom than he ever has to SG1's new leader Cameron Mitchell. In fact on at least a few occasions Ben Browder has handed over lines to either CJ or MS because he thought they were more appropriate for Teal'c or Daniel. Hardly the action of the big head you all so fondly want to believe the man to be. I'm not seeing many complaints about CamSpam around the more balanced parts of the online fandon but there's been an abundance of SamSpam causing tummy aches in a lot of places the last few years.
I have to admit I find highly amusing that so many of the people who have never given a damn before about Teal'c standing around propping up walls and uttering the occasional "Indeed" have suddenly added lack of screen time for Teal'c as yet another item on their ever growing list of what's wrong with season 9. I just have to wonder why they think that's the case when both CJ and Ben Browder have comment that Chris has had more to do in just a few episodes of season 9 than he has had in whole seasons in the past. Could it be that they really have never actually watched anything on their screens beyond straining their eyes to see if maybe, possibly, if you squint just the right way and hold your mouth just so, it looks a little bit like Jack maybe, kinda, sorta possibly brushed fingers with his pwecious Samikins thus proving for the whole world to see that it's LOVE dammit! and not just terminal indigestion. I'm sure Mr Judge would thank you for your concern but he seems rather happy with his level of involvement this year from the interviews I've read and has indeed lost far more screen time to the ubiquitous Ms Tapping and her ever-expanding bosom than he ever has to SG1's new leader Cameron Mitchell. In fact on at least a few occasions Ben Browder has handed over lines to either CJ or MS because he thought they were more appropriate for Teal'c or Daniel. Hardly the action of the big head you all so fondly want to believe the man to be. I'm not seeing many complaints about CamSpam around the more balanced parts of the online fandon but there's been an abundance of SamSpam causing tummy aches in a lot of places the last few years.
MMEEEEOOOOWWWWWW
Can you give me the sony post that you cut and pasted that from????
Teal'c has not had much to do thus far in season 10. I'll leave it to the folks that are well versed at it to count the lines and seconds of air time, however given that we were treated to the Vala and Daniel mutual admiration hour for five of the 10 seasons I really can't see how we've gotten a lot of Teal'c.
Teal'c has always been the most underutalized character on this show. And the only reason anyone championed his cause was that, when they were complaining about Daniel being excluded from things, they HAD to bring up Teal'c because he has always had less of a presence on the show than the others and it punched huge holes in the 'wallpapered Daniel' arguement when another member of the cast had even less screen time than Daniel
Personally, I would love to see more Teal'c action. Teal'c, who has gone from slave to leader, who has change from mindless murderer to responsible and compassionate, the word might be too strong, but savior is the general feeling, is the one character whose overall story and message has been consistent from day one.
Stargate is just as much his story and the story of his people as it is anything else.
" I'm not seeing many complaints about CamSpam around the more balanced parts of the online fandon"
LOL!! Sony forum, are your ears burning? That place is about as balanced as Fox news!
I don't dislike Mitch because he isn't Jack, I dislike Mitch because he's Mitch. I don't know how to make this any clearer for you guys.
Hey, Joe! Congrats to you and the creative team for getting the go ahead for Season 10!
Seems you are damned if you do, and damned if you don't by the "fans" who comment here.
Happily, the television viewers with the Nielsen boxes have continued to enjoy the current production and have kept the ratings fairly steady.
I am one of those "occasional" Stargate viewers who tuned in to watch the "new" SG-1 starring the very talented Ben Browder. Unfortunately for me, the "new" SG-1 feels just like the old SG-1 except for the addition of a few new cast members. While I enjoyed the introduction of the Mitchell character in Avalon 1, as the following episodes progressed, it soon became apparent that Ben is not the new "lead" and in fact has not had much to do. Even the sword fight in Avalon 2, which should have been a pivotal plot point, was trivialized and overshadowed by the very dramatic burning scene.
I know the existing cast each have admirers and detractors in this fractious "fan" base. However, since each of the original characters has been well established over the last eight years (seven for M. Shanks)--I was really looking forward to Ben and a fresh outlook. I've read your explanation for plot direction: new villains, additional new characters, etc. All I can say is, order of importance -- apparently, in your creative universe, the villains and the involvement of a "guest" character took precedence over the establishing of a "main" continuing character. I would have been happier if the creative team had looked at the set-up differently, but I am only one viewer and a "casual" one at that.
Anyway, the writing staff's indifference to the Mitchell character's development and substantive inclusion in the ongoing story line has caused me to lose interest and return to my "occasional" viewer status. I'll tune in for "Collateral Damage" and the episode featuring the Lucian Alliance, upcoming episodes that sound interesting to me.
I can express my disappointment without resorting to verbal fisticuffs and I do sincerely wish the entire Stargate cast and crew continued success for the remainder of Season 9 and Season 10.
As for the so-called "fans" of this Stargate Series, well some of them (a small, vociferous minority) have gone beyond passionate to rampant lunacy. Some responders have taken this opportunity to viciously bash each other as well as the actors, the creative team, and the Series in general. It is possible to express one's disappointment or misgiving in a civilized way. It is not necessary to hurl vitriolic insults, use slanderous conjecture, or otherwise impugn another's character to get a point across. Those who want to retain the status quo should understand that life is change. Nothing stays the same, events progress, we all grow and evolve. None of us were the same nine years ago. Zelda
Hi Joe
I really like season 9 ! one of the best, but I think SG1 is still winning too much, cant they lose a few battles really badly ?
Atlantis - the Wraith are too easily defeated, no new wraith technology (supposed to be more advanced) yet easily killed, more scary and tactful Wraith please !
I like the ideas in Stargate Horizon (fan spinoff), and would very much like this produced. what do you think about it ? would you be interested in getting this produced ?
I would like episodes with the Nox, Furlings (for season 10) or episodes showing Asgod technology, experimentation, on their base/world.
new galaxies with new unknown physics, time variation, different gravity etc would be great.
keep up the good work, thanks
asy
oh ffs. Why does everyone persist in making attacks or comments on the actors themselves?? has indeed lost far more screen time to the ubiquitous Ms Tapping and her ever-expanding bosom. The asshat that wrote that should be shot. You dont like SAM (the character not the fking actor) - OK. We get it. To try and make it the actors fault is way over the line. And that goes for all the actors. Joe - I implore you to send a heavy handed message in your next blog to anyone that persists making on ANY of the actors.
And get this through your head people - Not everyone who hates Mitchell is a Shipper and not everyone who likes him is a Daniel fan. Yet people seem to like making that conclusion.
Oh gee, here's a shock - I'm Sam fan yet I absolutely detest the ship and want nothing more to do with it. I will not however have a need to call (for example) Daniel a horrible character for taking screentime away from Sam. Nor will I need to blame O'Neill for 'wasting screen time on ship crap'. I read people arguing how a character is great while at the same time degrading another. Way to alienate the people you're trying to influence :rolleye: And this may sound a bit hypocritical given what I just said, but I don't have any problems with the characters - it's the fans of the characters I have the problem with. Sometimes I wish I never got involved with fandom, because quite frankly fanbois/fangirls are complete and utter dicks. And that goes for ALL fanboi/fangirls.
And for crying out loud, balanced parts of the fandom, what the hell is that supposed to fking mean? How the hell would a (for example) very pro Daniel, very anti Sam website considered balanced? The reason I like to post at gateworld is because it is PRO STARGATE. There is no culture of hate against any character/pairing/whatever. There is also no culture of worship to any character/pairing/whatever. And if you say otherwise, I seriously believe you are deluding yourself. Joe's blog here is not an indication of people's views from GateWorld - it's an indication of peoples views from a heap of different sites. And that's rather plain to see, otherwise there wouldn't be people coming here slandering one website while propping their own.
So why don't we just kick the fanboi/girls out on their arses and try to enjoy the goddamn show?
Let me try and sum this up without all of the unnecessary insults that are being flung around.
The main problem is not the different factions of fandom. The behavior they are exhibiting now is a symptom of what's wrong, but the crazy fandom bickering is not the root cause of it all.
The actual problem, or disease, if you will, is the character of Cameron Mitchell. He is an incredibly ill concieved entity, thrust to the fore with absolutley no qualifications, no experience, and, yes, no real character. He was intended to be innocuous and likeable. But the producers have gone way too far on that count, and now the character is stuck in no man's land, an easy target because of the character's lack of any kind of identity or skill set.
As has been mentioned, Mitchell is a pilot. There's no believeable scenario for that character to come in and automatically begin leading SG-1. Not the SG-1 that Carter, Teal'c, and Daniel are on. The general grumblings about Mitchell's leadership is that he "stands back and lets the experts do their thing". It's a nice thought, but it's nothing more than a pretty way of saying he doesn't do anything. And he doesn't; the other three members of the team are carrying Mitchell in every episode, at least in those rare instances he's with someone from SG-1.
Right now, Mitchell is no more useful to the show than Colonels Reynold's or Pierce are. In fact, so far Mitchell seems to be more Landry's bodyman than the leader of SG-1. And it's all well and good for Joe Mallozzi to say what he says, but the fact remains that every scene where Mitchell comes off looking bad, every scene where he just stands there, every scene where Carter seems to be more commanding than Mitchell, is done purposefully. Nothing gets filmed by accident. Scenes are blocked a certain way, dialogue is written with an exact purpose in mind, and episodes are structured as a means to an end. Everything you see on screen is planned and intentional. Ever wonder if that scene was meant to be ambiguously shippy? Don't. It was. Ever wonder if there was a reason Jonas was blocked out of that shot even though he was "in" the scene? Don't. There was. So, when you're wondering if Mitchell was supposed to look so inadequate when Teal'c shuts him up in Ex Deus Machina or if Mitchell is supposed to seem childish and out of place in the teaser of Babylon, don't. He was. Those are conscious choices on the part of the director, producer, and writer. No, they don't make Mitchell look good, no they don't make the audience like him. And, yes, initially it seems like a strange thing to do. But these producers, whatever else they may spout off in interviews and magazines, have always been the biggest fans of the original SG-1. Jonas never really fit in in season six, mostly because the guys making the show never wanted him to or believed that he should. Right now, they're doing the exact same thing with Mitchell. It's Jonas redux.
Lou B.
Ooh look, another Spamfan who thinks Gateworld doesn't have a "culture of hate" and just loves SG1. What a laugh! The site has become so damned negative that even the news items and the polls are biased, so much so that even Joe had to call them on it. Get over yourselves people. You have been left in the past. RDA has left the building. The ship has sunk. Browder is the new lead. Daniel and Vala are the new chemistry explosion. You can gripe and whine all you like but it ain't going to change the way things are. The ratings are good. The first half of the season got the show more positive media attention than it's ever had before and a tenth season renewal. If you think it's going to go backwards now you're kidding yourselves.
I just read that Michael Shanks was leaving the show in Season 10 for some new job in LA. That's why he cancelled his convention this weekend. I wonder how that makes everyone feel.
Anonymous said (in bold italics):
I just read that Michael Shanks was leaving the show in Season 10 for some new job in LA. That's why he cancelled his convention this weekend. I wonder how that makes everyone feel.
Where did you hear this information? Because I understood that so far, all the principle actors/actresses were set to re-sign for the new season.
So unless I see a link or a verified report, I'll have to file this thought under "RUMOR" and hope it isn't true.
Can you provide some sort of link here?
Thanks,
Mary Beth
Posted at the London expo site on Fri Oct 28, 2005 12:15 pm
Post subject: guest cancellation MICHAEL SHANKS
Michael is now unable to attend the Expo this coming Sunday due to an important meeting he has to take in LA to do with a potential major TV role.
He sends his sincere apologies and hopes to attend next year.
He will still be attending SG10 and will be doing the store signings the week following SG10.
Sorry
Admin
Major TV role could mean a lead in a major made for TV movie to be filmed during November or December or even as late as January since the show wouldn't even begin filming of season 10 until mid/late February.
If it is an offer for him to star on another show I will miss him on Stargate and will continue to watch it as long as the stories remain interesting. I love Teal'c and Sam, plus Hank, Cam and Carolyn are doing good for the show.
Okay I see "potential major tv role"...but nowhere do I see anything about him leaving Stargate...so I don't feel as worried as I did when I first read your post here.
Hmm...something occurred to me ... *donning cynical hat here* is there REALLY an honest to goodness meeting for an honest to goodness "POTENTIAL MAJOR TV ROLE" or is there a possibility that this is a negotiation tactic with regard to his contract? Kind of a leverage tool with regard to maybe what he wants for next season? So perhaps if TPTB aren't as accomodating as he likes...
I know. That's cynical even for me. It's just that the timing of this announcement seems a bit hinky...I mean aren't actor negotiations about to go into full swing???
I'm just sayin'...
Mary Beth
Don't even waste your time hoping against a rumor... all the cancellation says is that he has to miss a con due to a meeting about a potential TV role. It says NOTHING ABOUT HIM LEAVING STARGATE. It's possible that he is meeting about a major role in a TV movie that will shoot during his hiatus. It may be a guest star role in a major network series, which would be a big thing for his career. It may even be a pilot to something that would shoot in the months that he isn't working on Stargate.
The only point is that the meeting is now. And whoever posted the comment with their own 'snarky, inaccurate' twist was trying to stir up trouble or upset the Daniel fans.
Personally I think that the actor negotiations were done before SciFi announced or at least deal memos were signed. However, if they weren't and they haven't started negotiation, then Michael's agent as well as everyone's else's agent is free to put the word out and see whatever else might be available for their client. It doesn't necessarily have to mean the actor is trying to play hardball. It could very well be this is the time that the greenlight went out for other projects as well as giving the greenlight to SG and ATL. Time not to be cynical about what the actor is doing... he's doing business... we should be wishing him luck, period.
Anonymous said...
As for agreeing with Little Missy Sally, I mean really! Like that is a shock!
2:54 AM
~~~
:(
wow... i guess i'm in good company with amanda, ben, rick, claudia, and michael... (am i forgetting anyone?)
sally :/
ha shanks finally gets the show based around him like he and his nutters always wanted and then bails as it tanks...beautiful!
Gee, way to go on the name calling to fans of another character. 'SpamFan'... I take it you're talking about DanielFans then? I mean all they ever do is spam message boards and blogs about how righteous they are and that everyone should do what they do and sacrifice themselves on the altar of Daniel.
And as for there being a 'culture of hate at Gateworld' - find me any evidence on the forums that points towards hate of characters/pairings/whatever. Oh can't find any? That's because, believe it or not, its a site where people that like ALL the aspects of the show can come talk about it. I'd like to see you try and use that arguement about some of the other sites out there.
Joe i swear to god if you add vala as a cast membe i'm done with this show. it used to be entertainmetn now its just smut. i won't even let my kids watch it anymore. how do you tell a ten year old what she means or why she dresses like the lady in daddy's magazines? sg-1 used to be a show i would recomemd to to friends but now am ashamed to watch sometimes. no wonder ratings are down and actors are leaving. this show shoud not have gone on past season 8.
NO VALA!
Mary Lou Phillips
you do kind of feel like you need a shower after watching her, don't ya
Seriously Joe. No Vala full time. It's really not a good idea. I can see those fins in the water already.
PS
Maybe it would be a good time for you to bail on the show.
Good Lord, please don't even think about having Vala on full time! If that happens, then I'm definitely out of here. Cripes, apparently Scifi can ruin any show.
Lisa Masterson
Ok, so this is great. Looks like all that worshiping at the altar of Vala has paid off! Thanks, btw, you guys for pointing out to me that I have a brand-spanking new religion I didn't even know about! Gotta love those positive VIBES!
Anywho...season 10! That's just fantastic! Now all we need is CB, MS, CJ & Browder to sign on as full time cast members and all my prayers will have been fulfilled.
Now dangit, where did I leave those prayer beads!?
Solutions is reporting that Claudia Black will be a regular castmember in S10, appearing in every episode. The report did not say in what capacity, just that she would be a regular.
I'm sure some people are happy about that; I've heard some comments that Daniel and Vala are way better than Daniel and Jack were in terms of chemistry of characters/actors. To each his/her own, but I have absolutely no interest in watching Daniel and Vala sniping at each other and Vala doing her Vala stuff. That honestly would be the straw that broke the camel's back for me in terms of watching Stargate; I would want no part of it in any way.
Anonymous Punk said:
Dancer, Dancer, Dancer.
Can't you leave your rhetoric for the Sam and Jack thread? We've heard your manifesto a million times, and we get enough of you spamming our thread on Gateworld to last us a lifetime or 5. We don't need you uselessly cluttering up Joe's blog too.
As for agreeing with Little Missy Sally, I mean really! Like that is a shock!
Yawn, just go back into your little burrow and play nice with you little friend.
-----------------------------------
First of all, I think it's hilarious that everyone here knows my name and NO ONE knows yours. The anonymity thing while addressing/insulting other bloggers? Yeah, it really makes you look cool. Good job.
-----------------------------------
Anonymous Cultie #7 (of 10) said:
Ooh look, another Spamfan who thinks Gateworld doesn't have a "culture of hate" and just loves SG1. What a laugh! The site has become so damned negative that even the news items and the polls are biased, so much so that even Joe had to call them on it. Get over yourselves people. You have been left in the past. RDA has left the building. The ship has sunk. Browder is the new lead. Daniel and Vala are the new chemistry explosion. You can gripe and whine all you like but it ain't going to change the way things are. The ratings are good. The first half of the season got the show more positive media attention than it's ever had before and a tenth season renewal. If you think it's going to go backwards now you're kidding yourselves.
-----------------------------------
I'm sorry Cultie, dear. Are you lost? I believe the Sony Forums are farther south. Much, much farther. Do you have a tan yet? No? Than you've still got a ways to go.
If you think this site is biased, it's probably because the majority of its members didn't jump on the Season Six Bandwagon of Hatred in condemning other characters for the sake of their own faves. I know that's blasphemy where you come from, but they're the facts for a good portion of us here. Believe it or not, but we ALL manage to coexist here - with all of our beliefs - just fine without the senseless bashing.
But, you know, since GW is so awful, it's kinda funny (if not pathetic) that you're here. Are you trying to make a difference? Are you trying to make a point? Because you're doing neither. All you're doing is anonymously spamming a blog on a website that you detest.
While I (along with many others) am on GW with MY identity here for all the world to see, why don't you go back to your Cowardly Cult Palace of a forum and get all of the instant gratification you could possibly want as a way to take your mind off of the sins you've witnessed here.
Just remember: When sticking the needle into your Sam Voodoo Doll, you want to make sure that you don't jab it in TOO deep. You want to MAIM her, not kill her.
What ever would you do with yourselves if that were to happen?
Hallowed Are The Daniel Whackos,
the dancer of spaz
Hi ya joe,
Do I smell Tok'Wraith?
And if the DHD falls into the volcano in Inferno a la Torment of Tantalus I'm done with SG-1 lite, er, Atlantis.
How very orginal the season two scripts have been. Cheers.
Joe,
Wow, there really are no lengths you won't go to for the little show that couldn't, eh? Now you're gonna shove AT out of SG1, a show which she built, in the hopes of saving Atlantis? Wow again. Abraham's got nothing on you.
Amanda would never want us to show support for her by reaming out Joe (or anyone else). I think the best way we can do this is to speak out often and loudly, in a positive light, about how much we'd miss Sam Carter's character if she were downplayed even a little bit. How much enjoyment and excitement she's brought fans over the years and how TERRIFIC and OUTSTANDING an actress we think Amanda is. Her character is a bright shining example of what a female in sci-fi CAN BE, and to lose that, even in some small measure, would be a detriment both to the genre and to SG-1. Vala's a good, strong character too, but Sam is just - such a tour-de-force to look up to. A scientist/soldier/woman, she's got brains and beauty and strength. No matter what we have to do to keep her on board, I SO SINCERELY HOPE that TPTB do it. Sam Carter is an institution to SG-1, and Amanda Tapping has such grace and class as an actress, there's no possible way to replace her without leaving a great big hole in the Stargate franchise.
I dont know if you'll get a chance Joe, but if you could pass on to Amanda how much we love her that would be great. She's one of the reasons why I enjoy this show so much, and to imagine a Stargate without Amanda is something I don't want to contemplate!
Rock On Sam Carter in Season 10!
Joe, I'm flabbergasted. I've always tried to defend TPTB in the face of criticism because I could always see a way in which you were trying to help the characters grow and develop. This latest bit about Amanda Tapping and Atlantis is just stupid though. Going to Atlantis is a demotion, plain and simple. It's a crappy way to treat the actress and the character. Of course, after seeing what you've done to RDA and O'neill, I really shouldn't be that surprised.
Pamela Ridgeway
I'd like to add to what minigeek and agent dark have said. Sam Carter is the backbone of SG1 to me and without her it just won't be right. Both the character and Amanda have been the standard by which I have held all other actors to (to some of their faces) and it sits ill with me that she would be treated unfairly. I think Sam is a great strength of the show, as a woman, a sci-fi fan and human being who takes brains over T&A any day. It would be a shame if the potential dynamic between Carter and the new characters is not fully explored.. a great shame. Please let Amandad know she has support she doesn't even know about and should she choose to publicly read the phone book any time soon.. I'll be there to watch ;) - Myrth
Hi Joe:
If you have a way of letting Amanda know how much we love her, could you please? I would appreciate it. Stargate would just not be the same without Sam Carter and Amanda. Amanda is a great and talented actress and she has put so much effort, thought, and work into the show and her character. Amanda is the reason why I started watching Stargate and why I am still such a big fan.
More Sam Carter in Season 10!!!
Joe, please, please, please let Amanda know how much she is loved and how important Sam is to the show. She is the reason why I started to watch SG-1 in the first place way back in season one and why I continue to do so. SG-1 would not be the same without Sam. Please let her know how much we support her. And please tell us what the heck is going on. Please tell us that TPTB respect her and don't take her talent and hard work for granted.
Chocdoc
Joe,
Just wanted to add my voice to the rest here and say that the notion of Carter splitting her time between sG-1 and Atlantis is a really bad one. I mean it's really bad. The kind of bad idea that ruins shows. Amanda Tapping has helped to carry SG-1 from the beginning. To try and cart her off to the less successful show in an attempt to draw new fans is low and underhanded. The character of Sam Carter is a major player in the SG-1 world, and she deserves to finish her run with the show she's had such a big part in making a success. It sounds like you're asking Amanda Tapping to take a recurring role on two series instead of being a full time regular. What kind of crappy deal is that to offer someone who's done so much for SG-1?
Becky H.
Posted by Binkpmmc -
JOE - I have to add my 2 cents - I sincerely hope that TPTB did not see fit to treat AT in such a disrespectful manner - shame on TPTB if this is what happened - very bad judgment, very bad business especially after 9 years of nothing but loyalty and hard work from one of the most gracious people on the lot, not to mention her huge fanbase that TPTB just seem to want to alienate more and more. To tell AT that "you didn't know what to do with her character" what a shame after growing this character for 9 years, making her a competent soldier, a loyal friend and a damn fine leader, all for the sake of a male lead who has no purpose - well I guess now if Carter is not a regular on SG1 the fact that Mitchell has no purpose becomes moot because the character that clearly outshines and out commands him has been tossed aside - what a joke - I wasn't sure it was possible but this is a bigger joke than vala's caricature is as a regular.
Binkpmmc
i'm big atlantis fan joe. what are you trying to say when you bring in a huge character from the other show to altantis. isn't teyla or weir a good enough character. this doesn't seem right and will be bad for atlantis.
WOW, i just read over at solutions that you guys are trying to push Amanda Tapping off of the show! what a crappy way to treat an actress who has given you guys so much for so long. i hope Amanda leaves the Stargate universe altogether because you guys don't deserve her. i hope both SG-1 and Atlantis fail miserably! Wow, that's just terrible.
i'm big atlantis fan joe. what are you trying to say when you bring in a huge character from the other show to altantis. isn't teyla or weir a good enough character. this doesn't seem right and will be bad for atlantis.
I know what you mean, and I sincerely hope that if they DO (for whatever reason) bring Carter over to Atlantis, that she doesn't usurp any other character (Wier, Teyla, McKay - Anyone).
Being a big Carter fan myself, that would be a huge dissapointment. However, if they can write her in a way that she interacts fairly, equally and in a way that's true to her established character with everyone else, I could see it working.
But thats not to say I would be happy with her leaving SG1 of course...
AT hasn't been asked back yet for season 10? Does that mean we're finally to be rid of the led weight that is Sam and her half of the ship that never was? Is it too early to do the dance of joy???
Oh my! Sending Sam to atlantis is the best thing they can do. Just only one problem. They absolutely need to get rid of Weir so Sam can be in command. Otherwise, it'd just be awful.
Guess I'm not the first person here then, huh? Joe, judging from the report coming out of GABIT, it seems like you guys are really treating AT badly. She actually had to call Rob Cooper and ask if she was going to be fired? That is so very sad I can't even express it. Amanda Tapping is one of reasons that both SG-1 and Atlantis are even on television, and you guys can't even treat her or her character with any kind of respect. And the poster above is right, what does that say about the Atlantis cast? Mckay can't possibly have anything to do if Carter is on Atlantis, and Weir and Teyla barely do anything right now. This is all very bad business, very unprofessional. Amanda Tapping should be a regular on SG-1, plain and simple. Figure it out.
Jason
i started watching sg1 (because i didn't have anything else to watch). :p
in the first ep, i really liked the cast - so i continued.
in the second ep, i started leaning towards sam carter being my fave character.
in the third ep, sam carter became my fave character.
in the fourth ep, i officially became an s/j shipper.
it's bad enough watching sg1 without jack/rda, but the thought of sam/amanda not being there... is undoable.
if this is true about amanda working on sg1 AND atlantis, i just hope her character is treated with respect. (and now i'll actually have to watch atlantis)
please pass on to amanda, joe, that her fans love and support her. and hope her feelings haven't been too hurt with this. (((amanda)))
and i hope YOU at least stay with the stargate franchise!
sincerely bummed,
sally :/
Lookit that. I found my prayer beads last night, went a chanting and looks like it worked! MS, CB, CJ & Browder for Season 10!
Ok, Joe, now this is getting ridiculous. I'm one of those Ben Browder fans, the ones who have been upset of his treatment here. And even I think the Amanda Tapping plan is horrendous. Your plan is to what, take away his competition for lead? He'll be what, de facto leader? That's not great for the character.
Also, I think that this is really just going to make a lot of fans hate Mitchell and Vala even more than they already do. You can't kick a veteran cast member off in order to add new actors. That's the kind of stuff that makes fans resent new characters.
And, to be honest, if this is the way that the Stargate producers treat their actors, then I'm not sure I want Ben or Claudia working for you guys.
A Worried Farscape Fan
I'm a little angry too.
You know, I tuned out of this blog about 150 comments ago, but these latest rumors made me decide to pop back in, even if I look like one of the freaky ranters, and even if you stopped reading these long ago.
I have to say I am shocked by the report (IF TRUE--I realize it's second/third hand rumors) that AT wasn't even contacted about S10 and she had to go to Mr. Cooper herself?
Ms. Tapping has been a loyal member of the crew and fervent supporter of the show throughout its tenure. I haven't been the biggest fan of some of Sam Carter's character turns as written *cough*J/S ship*cough*, but I've always loved her presence on the show.
Losing Sam would be bad for the SGC, demoting AT to recurring character status for two shows would be a travesty.
Vala was a nice change of pace as recurring, and CB is a lovely actress that I'm happy to see getting work, but I am dreading the almost certainty of full-time Vala. RDA's retirement from the show was sad but understandable. The possibility of losing three of the original SG-1 from the cast (from another internet rumor about MS--and yes I realize that these are just rumors) difficult to comprehend.
BTW, Sam's not my favorite character, Daniel is. And though I'll be happy to watch whatever either AT or MS may do in their careers, I really hope it's S10 on SG-1 for BOTH of them.
If it means less f/x budget to have the characters we love around, I won't mind more repeat stock shots and less sh** blowing up.
Thanks for reading, if you're still bothering. ;-)
SAM CARTER ROCKS!!! The Stargate franchise can take credit for creating a brilliant, competent, confident,interesting, assertive, brave, loyal, loving and kicka$$ female character!!! We've seen the scientist/soldier/woman develop over the past 9 seasons through the talented interpretation of Amanda Tapping. Go all the way and continue to expand Carter's role. Single, professional women can be attractive and powerful lead characters when the scripts maintain their roles through intelligent storylines. Be Bold, Amanda's talent and Sam's character can break the mold in stereotypes for women actors/characters. 'Nuff said!!
Tsk, Tsk Tsk to TPTB if this is true about Ms. Tapping. After 9 years, treating her with such disrespect is despicable on the part of Sony and Sci-Fi and the people at Bridge Studios - the need for Ms. Tapping to have to contact Mr. Cooper is the most unbelievable disresepctful thing that TPTB have done in the tenure of this show - you should all be ashamed of yourselves and if Samantha Carter goes I go.
You people wouldn't know a good thing if it came up and slapped you in the side of the head. If sexual innuendo and immature highjinks is where you want to take Stargate SG1 I hope Ms. Tapping decides to pursue the other opportunities she has - she is better off being away from the "new and improved" (read laughable) Stargate SG1.
All of the people involved in Stargate SG1 should be ashamed of how they have and are treating Ms. Tapping and the wonderfully strong and intelligent character of Samantha Carter.
Betty
FRACK OFF!!!!!
*breaths*
What a lack of respect as much for Amanda (you so don't deserve her) as for us man!!! I'm an atlantis fan and you really think you can lunch a character in the middle of the show like that? Honestly, look what happened when you lunched Cameron in the middle of sg1... it ends up with you getting rid of Sam. Who are you gonna get rid of now? Weir? Teyla? As much as I wanna trust your talent and passion for the show, I think you are going to destroy the balance of the relationships you've been settling for 2 years now.
Anyway I don't know where you're going but I hope you won't have Amanda back, I hope she'll find another role in another show, somewhere people will respect her and her incredible talent.
By the way, good job. 7 years to build a show, 2 to destroy it... Tv is like casino, the winner is the one who knows when to stop.
Damn I'm so mad (and not even at you... but you're the only one who's at least listening!)
I'm with everyone else. This sucks. You guys don't deserve to have any of the actors work for you if this is the way you treat them.
You all have got to be kidding with the crappy way you are treating AT and Sam Carter - what the heck are you thinking - are you thinking? Get with the program guys - this whole thing reeks, check that, it out and out stinks. I am incensed and if this all turns out to be the way you handle a character, and the actress, after 9 years then it's curtains for you and your show - what a bunch of crap.
Rob
Wow, just, Wow. This is one of those really bad ideas you always hear about, think could never actually come to fruition, and blithely dismiss. Then, a few months later, you learn that things have actually come to fruition in said really bad way. Then, after a bit of deliberation, you kick the chair out from under yourself and dangle from the rafters. Because in a world where this kind of stupidity reigns, it's not worth sticking around.
Epiphany 76
Joe, if you want to have a look at what fans think of this BRILLIANT idea, just take a peak in the characters folder at GateWorld. Or over at Our Stargate. Or at the Sony Forums. Or any other place where all things Stargate are discussed. This is one of those universally reviled ideas. Do the franchise a favor, and drop it.
Joe, I know it's not your fault, and it's probably too late for the "in theory" aspect of the decision.
But that doesn't mean it's too late to stop the execution altogether.
Again, I know this isn't your fault, but if you could say something to your posse, that'd be great.
Sam is great, ra, ra, ra. Amanda Tapping is even better, and you'd be losing a valuable asset to the original team and the series.
Thanks!
~ the dancer of spaz
Joe, PLEASE DON'T kick Carter off SG-1 !!! :(
See that's the thing, that comment just above this one. No matter what you say, no matter what you write, no matter how "happy" anyone is going to look or sound, there's nothing that will make this look like anything but you guys kicking Carter off of SG-1. Nothing. And I hope that's not what you're trying to do.
Joe - who's making these ridiculously BAD decisions? Is it Sony, MGM, Bridge - please tell us and tell us what can be done to wake the knuckleheads up - there is a huge AT/Sam Carter fanbase - not to mention the other fans of the show - who would love the opportunity to tell the guys that are making some of these decisions where to get off.
Kevin
QUOTING ABOVE POST: "See that's the thing, that comment just above this one. No matter what you say, no matter what you write, no matter how "happy" anyone is going to look or sound, there's nothing that will make this look like anything but you guys kicking Carter off of SG-1. Nothing. And I hope that's not what you're trying to do."
Posted by Binkpmmc - I have to respond to this with my opinion on it - yes that is what they (sony/mgm/skiffy/bridge?) are trying to do. Thus far Mitchell serves no purpose - Carter clearly runs circles around him when it comes to command, she is a threat to his being the male lead. SOMEONE, SOMEWHERE at TPTB level feels the need to have the MALE lead nonesense so they have to remove the threat to Mitchell, the one thing that continues to make him look useless, ergo ship Carter off to SGA for half the season while diminishing her role on SG1 and voila Mitchell can appear useful and competent while fullfilling the male lead nonesense.
The fact that Cooper admits to AT that they "don't know what to do with" a longstanding, core, integral character who has helped to keep this show afloat for 9 years is appalling and just goes to show that she cannot be the leader because it has to be the male lead so what do they do with her? She shows the supposed male lead up because she is more qualified, better prepared, more competent off-world, etc., and a very large portion of the fans don't accept Mitchell as leader or co-leader as long as she is around, so they remove the problem.
Binkpmmc
Joe-
First off congrats on renewal of sg1 and atlantis.
Secondly, Samantha Carter is an inspiration to all women, of all ages. Come on, she showed us that she doesn't have to male (no disrespect to the males) to be strong. Sam can handle whatever the males can handle. She is a brillant character and pretty much the heart of stargate, IMO.
Third, oh for crying out loud Samantha Carter is a beloved character........
loyal Samantha Carter fan
Anonymous said...
"Joe, if you want to have a look at what fans think of this BRILLIANT idea, just take a peak in the characters folder at GateWorld. Or over at Our Stargate. Or at the Sony Forums. Or any other place where all things Stargate are discussed. This is one of those universally reviled ideas. Do the franchise a favor, and drop it."
---------------------------
Hell has frozen over. Stargate Fandom is united at last.
I can't believe what I have been reading. I'm in shock. How is it possible to reduce the role of a major SG-1 team member that has been on the show for NINE years for the sake of giving Mitchell something to do? Is this how you are taking care of the leadership issue? Reduce the role of the actress who has given her heart and soul to this show for nine years for two newcomers, Mitchell and Vala? Sam is the obvious leader in terms of experience and knowledge, yet we can't have a female leader of SG-1 (must have a male lead), so let's reduce her role so that now it has to be Mitchell?! Why not continue the co-leadership idea?
And heaven forbid that there would be two actresses on the show. Gasp! NO room for two actresses, but plenty of room for FOUR actors?
Sam Carter is a beloved character and you know that so many fans see it this way. Sam Carter is a huge part of SG-1, a key team member. The treatment toward Amanda Tapping in unthinkable. I can't believe that Amanda has to be hurt like this after all that she has given to the show, and her major contribtion to the success of the show. This is just downright depressing. The actress does not deserve this incredibly poor treatment.
Ok, Joe. You and Cooper and Wright and whoever else is coming up with stories up there in Vancouver need to take a step back and look, really look, at what you're doing to these shows. You're turning into those worst kinds of producers, the ones who deconstruct and ruin what was once a hugely success show. Remember Berman and Braga? That's you right now. Remember the fun had on Andromeda or Earth Final Conflict? That's the realm you're taking SG-1 and probably Atlantis into. You're not going to keep fans with loser move. You're going to lose them. A lot of them. If this actually goes through, SG-1 is dead in year, easy. I wouldn't be surprised if you only get aired for 10 episodes. And the Atlantis cast is already too bloated to sustain all the characters adequately. If you stick Carter there, she's going to dominate all of the othe characters on Atlantis. Yup, this move will ruin both shows, and it will forever ruin your careers. You'll be branded as the guys that killed Stargate.
The more I read about this the more upset I get. You guys really are a bunch of misogynistic pigs. I hope Amanda leaves and both your shows fail.
As I read more and more I have to say Joe, that I hope AT leaves all TPTB in the dust, takes her other oportunity and watches you all crash and burn from a safe distance - TPTB deserve it for the horrible way they have treated her and for the absolutely ludicrous way they have ruined this show.
To think Stargate SG1 used to be beloved by it's fans, almost universally, it is very sad to see so many with complaints and criticisms, especially growing in S9, and now just screaming with this utterlly disrespectful way in which AT has been treated.
Stargate used to be a good drama with appropriate, irreverant humor, now it seems it's just a raunchy wanna be comedy targeted at immature high school boys (and that of course has its fans but I won't be one of them and I hope I won't be alone, and based on the outpouring of comments, it is likley I won't be). AT is better off without this nonesense and being treated like crap after 9 years and better off without the show at this point in time - why ride a dying, bloated whale to the middle of the ocean with no way back?
Sue
Ok, just read the rumors. You've got to be kidding me. Seriously, I want to hear that this is all a joke in the next blog.
Adriana
Joe,
Any thoughts on why AT's /Sam is 'possibly' being cut in two next season?
I really think TPTB need to doublely think this 'possible' decision over they lose the only thread (AT/SAM) that keeps me hanging in there watching SG-1.
Queen Lurker
Anonymous said:
See that's the thing, that comment just above this one. No matter what you say, no matter what you write, no matter how "happy" anyone is going to look or sound, there's nothing that will make this look like anything but you guys kicking Carter off of SG-1. Nothing. And I hope that's not what you're trying to do.
Certainly looks that way to me. Amanda takes some time off to have a baby; another actress comes in whose character is a liar, cheat, self-centered, not to be trusted, shows alot of boobage and is full of sexual innuendos and AT gets shoved to the background because the writers just don't know what to do with her character anymore. So much for writing skills.
What an utterly disrespectful and cheap way to treat an actress/character who has been such an integral part of the show. Sony/MGM and Bridge are certainly a piece of work.
WTF! You really disgust me Joe. Maybe you're involved, maybe not, but by mere association you're just as bad. I hope this crappy show gets cancelled and I hope you never get work again. I've given a decade of my life to this show and to see it crapped on so completely in so short a period of time is simply incredible. I'm awestruck at your ineptitude and your low class manuvers. You want smut and sex? You got it. Stargate is utter crap now, only half a year from it's real end. I hope you read this and feel just a bit of the shame and hatred taht we fans are feeling right now. I hope Amanda Tapping runs away from you as fast as she can and I hope she far outpaces any career you might enjoy. You're despicable. I'm so angry I an't even make sense. WHy couldn't you just end the shwo after eight seasons? It's a shama nd a joke now and if you think people are watching for any other reason than loyalty you're nuts.
Becky, the angry one time stargate fan
Joe
My name is Jenny Carill and this is the first time I've ever written or posted anything about Stargate. I'm coming out of lurkdom because I want to add my voice and hopefully that of my fellow longtime lurkers to the chorus of rebuke over your plan to shove Sam Carter and Amanda Tapping off of the show. I think it's horrid how she's been treated, and I think that you'll probably not do anything despite our pleas. I'm just sad for the show that was once so great and I want you to know that you've lost another viewer in me thanks to this latest idiotic decision.
I, too, am appalled by the disrespectful treatment of Ms. Tapping, who has done so much to build SG1. They "don't know what to do with her character?" How disingenuous is that? Sam Carter is a major part of what made the show great and would *continue* to make it good. I can't believe TPTB don't see that.
jckfan55
This is absolutely the most appalling thing I've ever heard regarding Stargate. Look, I don't usually post online, and I think that Stargate fandom is entirely crazy. But this is just too much even for me to keep quiet. To treat one of the original actors who built the show this way is despicable. I knew tv producers were low, underhanded, and untrustworthy, but I had believed that you guys were a little better than that. Silly me. How much the fool I feel now. And so much for that oft touted "Stargat Family", huh?
Let me ask you this, Joe. At what point is the total deconstruction of what was once SG-1 complete? That's obviously your goal. First you consciously remove the Jack O'neill character without any explanation or even hint of a mention, basically begging Richard Dean Anderson, the only actor who will ever be the Star of SG-1, never to return. Then, you punish Amanda Tapping for having the gall to get pregnant and have a baby by demoting her character and treating her as if she's nothing more than a measly hired hand. Now there's this. I'm sure next we'll hear how Ms. Tapping's twenty episodes got cut to ten, then down to five, until we eliminate the character of Carter from SG-1 altogether. You know, just like Jack O'neill. Who's next on the hit list? Is Teal'c going to have a bad run in with a prior? Maybe he'll take a hit from some friendly fire, die, and then never get talked about again. That seems to be your thing. Perhaps Daniel will get buried in a cave in at some remote ruin? These are good ideas, Joe, don't discount them. They're at least as good as the ones you guys seem to be coming up with. And they certainly fit the direction you want to take SG-1.
Michael Satakin
You know what? This is actually a good thing for me. I'm so sick of worrying about every single thing that you guys are doing to the show. Now I can at least accept the fact that you've ruined SG-1, are well on your way towards ruining Atlantis, and simply give up on the whole thing. It's a relief, actually.
Anyway, thanks for eight great seasons of SG-1. I will always enjoy MY show. And, I feel like I should also thank you for Threads and Moebius. At least the real SG-1 got an ending that does right by the characters. You guys can go on trashing the show however you want now. Cheers! You'd better get to one of those life rafts, the whole franchise is going down fast!
SG-1Nutter
Well, I give you guys credit. Right now, there's absolutely no one who cares how badly Mitchell has been written. I guess the writers do intend to spread the crappy writing around. Nice Job!
ha, this just validates what i've been saying for years. Carter is dead weight. She's useless, only good for damn shippiness and holding the show back. thanks for finally trying to fix the show and boot spammikins. Long live the second original team.
Anonymous said...
ha, this just validates what i've been saying for years.
You've been waiting YEARS to feel validated? You poor dear! I'm so sorry. No wonder....
Anonymous said...
Carter is dead weight. She's useless, only good for damn shippiness and holding the show back. thanks for finally trying to fix the show and boot spammikins. Long live the second original team.
LOL! What's a "second original"? Is that like: "more gooder"? Thanks for the laugh. You kiddies are frickin' hilarious.
Let's hope this really is the beginning of the end for Spam Carter! I cannot tell you how much I (and my remote's fast forward button) would thank you for a Spam lite or even a Spam free season 10. And more Vala too! I'm looking forward to next season more all the time!
o•rig•i•nal - noun. A first form from which other forms are made or developed: Later models of the car retained many features of the original.
There's no such thing as a "Second Original". Only copies and imitations.
Long Live Samantha Carter! The ORIGINAL and the BEST female lead in a sci-fi series, EVER. :)
~Karen~
Thanks for the laugh. You kiddies are frickin' hilarious.
Glad you enjoyed it. Bet Tapping isn't laughing too much right now. Shame she never showed Shanks more sympathy when he was in a worse situation, eh?
Anonymous said...
Let's hope this really is the beginning of the end for Spam Carter!
Spam Carter? Who is that? I'm not familiar with that character.
Joe can you confirm or deny the rumors in this report from http://stargate-sg1-solutions.com/blog/?p=405 Where it says that Claudia black will be a regular and Amanda Tapping will be splitting time between SG-1 and Atlantis?
Anonymous said...
ha, this just validates what i've been saying for years. Carter is dead weight. She's useless, only good for damn shippiness and holding the show back. thanks for finally trying to fix the show and boot spammikins. Long live the second original team.
Ok, let's review:
Seasons 1-5 team line-up-
Jack, Sam, Daniel and Teal'c
Season 6 team line-up-
Jack, Sam, Jonas, and Teal'c.
Seasons 7-8 team line-up-
Jack (even though in 8 he was a General, he still was part of the "team"), Sam, Daniel, and Teal'c.
Season 9 team line-up-
Mitchell, Sam, Daniel, and Teal'c.
If Season 10 includes Vala as a team member- then Mitchell, Vala, Daniel and Teal'c.
Now I don't know about you, but the last time I counted that's the fifth team line-up, so not he second original team.
And if TPTB are counting on that to help lead-in SGA, then alot of SG-1 fans will be watching something else instead.
Man, it sure didn't take long for the Sam nutters to start in with the hate mail, did it? Isn't it a bit unfair making personal attacks against JM just because he has this public blog, when you don't even know who was behind the decision to split Carter across the 2 series?
AT has had a 20-episode contract offered to her. Given how boring Carter has been lately, I think she should be very grateful. The Atlantis fans have my sympathy that she'll be over there, no doubt being worshipped by every being with a Y chromosome.
Anonymous said...
Glad you enjoyed it. Bet Tapping isn't laughing too much right now. Shame she never showed Shanks more sympathy when he was in a worse situation, eh?
Since you don't have a clue what Amanda Tapping's relationship with Michael Shanks actually entails, and since you certainly don't know either one of them well enough to be tittering over their personal situations and/or name-calling, I'm going to write your little-and-loud comments off as completely superfluous.
I really hope TPTB enjoy their new leather clad oversexed fanbase. Its small but highly annoying.
STARGATE TRUE STARGATE forever
O'Neill
Carter
Jackson
Tea'lc
Hammond
Fraiser.
All proffessionals at their jobs. The kind of people who I was happye were saving the Universe.
Now welcome to Stargate-Andromeda or is that Xena... have fun CAMPers.
Does this comment board at some point just self-implode from the insanity and stupidity? No really, is there a limit to how many comments can be logged before it locks up.
Joe, time to make another blog entry so we can start fresh ;)
The people that come here to say how happy they are about AT's situation and Carter's situation, yadda yadda are the very worst of fandom and should be rightly ignored - they are the exact type of people J Mallozzi was talking about when he reamed some of the fans who were talking trash about BB (and it is even more unfortunate now that J Mallozzi did not choose to defend AT and RDA at the same time as the end result is that there are those few that think it's appropriate to continue to speak disresepctfully about them).
These people who are glad about what is happening with AT and Carter are the very same ilk that Joe was angry with only they are too thick and twisted to realize they ARE THE problem. Luckily they are a very tiny, itsy, bitsy portion of fandom so when the show tanks in S10 due to overexpsoure of vala and her assets and due to turning a once fine drama into a wanna-be comedy, that only those few remain to see I hope those few, and TPTB, are all able to console each other as they will have no one to blame but themselves.
Binkpmmc
i am begging, *begging* my fellow sam fans to NOT take up battling the anti sam fans *here*. this should be a time for ppl to come here and talk about what sam/amanda means to them and the show. i don't want to see the wonderful progress made here be tarnished by sparring with these ppl. they've come here for one reason and one reason only. ignore them and continue on. their words speak for themselves. please, guys, don't take the bait.
sally :/
First of all, i seriously doubt that any decisions that have been made are Joe's. He's not that high on the food chain (no offense)
second of all....where is this 'we're all one big happy family' actors keep touting???? Because Family doesn't treat a member like Amanda has reportedly been treated. She has NEVER dissed anyone and now she's to be shoved aside and 'punished' for daring to have a life and a baby and not lowering herself to be little more than eye candy.
How can we be hearing 'there's no limit to the stories we can tell' when you can't even find a use for a long standing character, and one who's second only to Chris for longevity?
Shame on the folks who are treating her this way. You're not family....with family like this, who needs enemies????
I don't care how cut throat showbiz is, after you've worked with someone for nine years, you don't treat them like this.
As much as i will miss sam and the shows, a very real part of me hopes that she tells y'all to take your job and shove it. You don't deserve her, not after doing this.
and Joe, you can pass this onto which ever brain donor made the decision.
I never watched farscape when it was on the first time and i have zero desire in watching the cheap immitation that season 10 seems destined to be.
Denise
I really wonder if Joe is going to bother wading through attacks from fans (from all factions) against other fans (from all factions) to actual praise and criticism about the show. Does it matter why fan A is upset, or why they're happy? Does it matter that fan B is outraged now and wasn't before, or vice versa? Do people have to come and analyze other people's reactions to make sure they're pure, and bash them if they feel they aren't. Sheesh.
Personally, I don't think anyone deserves to be treated badly. Regardless of how I feel about Sam (and I'm actually liking her a lot more now than I did in season 7 and the second half of season 8) writers should know what to do with the character. They shouldn't just throw their hands up and say they can't do anything else. That's lazy.
And, to echo someone, if it's true that everyone except AT was contacted about season 10, that was shabby.
Dani347
Joe deserves to know why this show will be cancelled after next year. But I am sure it will allow him to pursue the other opportunities he would rather be pursuing.
Obviously Scifi wants to do something else, its the only thing that explains the purposeful sabotage of this once great show.
Its a shame, there are so many great stories that could be told with all of these characters but unfortunately TPTB doesn’t have the skill or the leash to get it done and instead have to give into the cellophane fast-food low budget sci-fi culture.
Treating Amanda is unprofessionaly is bad enough. Treating you female and other adult fanbase like they are irrelavent is obscene and ultimatly unproductive.
...Ok...listen up all you whiny assed little moaners out there you need to heard something...
S.T.F.U or leave the fandom if your not going to! Joe posts these things for the *Fan's* if the show to know how things are going. With all the bitching and complaining you do, you aint fans! All your complaining is only making you look pathetic! It's not big, it's not clever and its not influencing anyone! TPTB will take the show is a direction that they want and create a dynamic they think works.
Y'all just need to go and buy yourself some little 'Electrical friends' and chill out for a minute, OKAY?
Hell I'll even supply the batteries if it shuts you up!
Joe, I know this has been said before, but if you lose ANY of the three remaining original SG-1 members, then the show is sunk. No one cares enough about the new characters to watch a show that bears no resemblence to what people expect from SG-1.
Since word of Ms. Tapping's shoddy treatment by those she considered her friends, the Sam Carter thread here at Gateworld has had an average of 60 viewers at any given time. At this moment there are 77. No thread on any other stargate forum does those numbers. This one normally doesn't. The fact that it is should be telling you that people care about this, and that they're pretty upset. I know I am. As the comment above mine says, if you guys give up on the original characters, then your show will die. Then you can all go work on Atlantis. Joe, you and Paul can write 2 scripts a year. It'll be great. And really lucrative.
Kathy
I came into this fandom late, so I missed all the big hooah over MS depature in season 6 and from what I understand it wasn't pretty.
I guess I'm just too naieve to hope that the fans (knowing what happened back then) would be able to hold themselves to a higher standard than to take digs at the next Character/Actor that may or may not be leaving.
Rock on Sam Carter in Season 10
Gem Simpson maybe you should stay on topic and address yourself to Joe and not the other fans.
Joe, I am dissappointed in the apparent change in direction of this long running and successful show. I understand the need for change. I dont understand the wholesale change in direction that will cause this show, my most beloved show, to become a shallow shell of itself for the short period before its inevitably cancellation.
Please do what you can to stop this from occuring. I begg you...seriously, hands and knees here.
I rather like how the show is doing thus far; I've seen all the aired american episodes for season 9, and I have no complaints.
Keep up the good work.
THANK YOU for pointing out the rather odd phrasing in the poll. It does suddenly seem to lean a bit toward NOT liking the show, what's up with that? Um. . . am I wrong or isn't this a FAN SITE FOR THE SHOW? Meaning something along the lines of likable?
Also, those that degrade BB personally are immature kids who unfortunately aren't going to change their minds or opinions. From what I've heard, he would be a delight to work with, unlike those who find fault in anything that breathes.
OH, and uh, Amanda just had a baby, let's throw her FULL TIME into the show with no adjustment period. That makes a lot of sense. Teal'c has a great plot going. Daniel has a great plot going. Sam will gradually return to the mix as AMANDA feels comfortable with the new adjustments of caring for a baby while working 12 hours on a set. Seem to me the old characters are doing just fine, so WHAT'S THE COMPLAINING ABOUT?
How the hell do you think Doctor Who lasted for so long? It's called continuity, people. Good god, you have eight years of "old team", and most of you did nothing but complain during the last two. People are dropping groups left and right because of all the negativity and crap. Pull out your DVD's and get stuck. Just don't drag the rest of us into the quicksand. Form an anti-stargate group or something, and live there.
"Stargate" is more than the sum of it's original parts. The success of Atlantis has proven that. It's a concept. It has grown. Or need I really remind you that neither Sam nor Teal'c were in the movie?
Grow with it.
McK
You people seem to be forgetting that at was RDA's decision to leave.
Okay, get this, because this might come across as a novel concept, but Richard Dean Anderson decided he wanted to be with his family. He found it more important than the show! But others wanted to continue, because it is something they all enjoy.
So hey, I know! Instead of being supportive of the decision made both by RDA and the PTB, let's spit on it and act all bad-ass because our *one hour* of television has been slightly disrupted. Let's halt the whole idea because we, as a fan base, have the final say in someone else's artistic endeavor. Let's not give anyone else a chance because we are so set in our ways that we abhor change, and are miserable people as a result. Let's shut down the whole system so that everyone has to go find other jobs, when all they wanted was to continue what they enjoyed.
Personally, I'm still watching.
leenys
The show is NOT shot for me if Sam's no longer a member of the SG-1 gang. I can understand the comment about them not knowing what to do with the Sam character any longer. The show was just fine as far as I could see during the first five episodes of season nine, and it could survive in season ten and beyond without Carter. The character holds no interest for me as a viewer any longer, and hasn't since the end of season three. If AT leaves the series, or goes over to Atlantis, then I'll wish her well and continue watching SG-1 as always.
She was not in the movie. For me she's not one of the original characters.
You know, there may be a perfectly legitimate reason for leaving Amanda to be the last one talked to -- we are currently only hearing her version of events -- and castigating Joe and the show before we hear the other side. After all, she said they assured her of twenty episodes and whether that's in one show or two, none of the other actors are getting any more than 20 either. And I didn't hear that she said that she was being bumped off SG-1 or that Vala is being put onto SG-1 in her place, only that they said they aren't sure what to do with her and are exploring the options of having her in one or both shows. People here have her already gone and the show buried when neither she nor TPTB know what they're doing yet. And the unfortunate truth is that RDA leaving and AT taking leave did result in some changes in the show that now might bear more contemplation about.
If AT chose to leave the show like RDA chose to leave the show then good luck to her. Now lets replace her with an equally impressive professional military female character.
If they are forcing her out so they can bring in their fantasy scifi slut. Then so long. I will not watch the show or buy the DVDs or buy the merchandise and I will encourage others I know in the same direction (though I dont really think it will take much encouragement).
by the way, I think that no company is bound to hold a job open for you if you leave it for maternity leave -- I think the requirement is that they have to provide a similar job within the company or something like that. Some jobs can't be filled by temps.
Hey, Joe. Just wanted to pop in and say it's not too late to avoid this awful, ill-concieved plot contrivance. Carter belongs on SG-1. As long Amanda Tapping is a part of the stargate universe, and as long as SG-1 the show is still going on, Carter belongs with SG-1. Really, all this just to accomodate the Mitchell and Vala characters? Come on, you guys used to have way more class than that.
Oh, that's rich "anonymous". She got pregnant so she shouldn't get her old job back. Good point of view.
Asshole.
Joe T.
So I guess CB better not bother to take a break with her kid right? Maybe we should just get rid of all the females on the show? And MS he actually took a break to get his apendix out. They had to re-write an ep, dam him, he shouldnt get his job back either by your standards.
Joe, Stargate SG-1 will not be the same without Amanda Tapping! Please let her know that many many fans will support her in whatever she does or goes whether inside the Stargate franchise or not. We’re hoping she will return as a major character in all 20 episodes of SG-1 instead of being divided part time among two shows and therefore being reduced to a reoccurring character. I sincerely hope TPTB will respect all the hard work and dedication she has given to the show since the first television debut!!! The latest news has me very worried for AT's sake!!!!
Ann
Wow.
Regardless of how I have felt over the last couple of seasons about Sam, the actress deserved more respect than having to go ask about her status.
But I guess I'm not surprised considering how Michael Shanks and Corin Nemic were treated in the past.
No matter how much people talk about family, business is cut-throat.
But AT is actually not being descriminated against since they are offering her 20 episodes like everyone else is getting (as far as we know)
AS far as the character, I'm afraid that I saw that writing on the wall when the best TV Guide (1st time) could say about Carter is that "She might be getting closer to her boss. Wink, wink."
They have written her more like a desperate housewife than a soldier-scientist in the last couple of years. They made a big mistake (IMO) in tying her so closely to Jack and the love life stuff that now the character has too much baggage attached and they don't know how to write for her. Too bad because she used to be a great character.
Amanda though has my sympathy and support. I wish her the best in whatever she ends up doing in the future.
I'm trying but finding it difficult to work up some sympathy for all the outraged Sam fans who are ticked off that their gal might be getting a raw deal.
Some of those same folks (though not all) treated Michael Shanks horribly when he was told by tptb that his character didn't warrented an upgrade a few years ago.
"It'll be fresh and new"
"Trust the powers that be"
"The arc is over"
"Change is good."
I've already seen some pretty strongly worded nastiness flung out by the Sam fans and shippers. So I'm quite sure the hate mail is on the way even as we speak.
Perspectives differ when the shoe's on the other foot, eh?
Joe, it must sting a little when the adoring masses turn on you like that when you probably have nothing at all to do with contract negotiations. My sympathy to you.
All in all, I think Miss Tapping is shrewdly negotiating her contract in the public eye. Good luck to her.
someone said:
***AS far as the character, I'm afraid that I saw that writing on the wall when the best TV Guide (1st time) could say about Carter is that "She might be getting closer to her boss. Wink, wink."
They have written her more like a desperate housewife than a soldier-scientist in the last couple of years. They made a big mistake (IMO) in tying her so closely to Jack and the love life stuff that now the character has too much baggage attached and they don't know how to write for her. Too bad because she used to be a great character.***
i don't see sam carter loving jack o'neill to be destructive to her character. she fell in love with him, he with her, and then they both sacrificed their desires to care for their planet first and foremost. they both tried to move on, too, but in the end, they couldn't fight what they felt for one another. a simple love story played out in the background of sg1's travels.
sounds nice to me.
and there's plenty of ideas left to write for sam carter (the writers just have to 'want' to try).
all my opinion of course.
~~~
joe, after seeing how down you appeared a few days ago (saying you weren't sure *you* were coming back)... makes me wonder if you saw what was coming.
i'll hope for the best for amanda *and* you.
sally
FARGATE LIVES!
Calling this show sG1 is like calling Tripping the Rift Shakespeare.
WOW!!
You people are getting really really worked up, over RUMORS!
Have a bit of patience and we'll see what's going to happen. Until then, there's no need to fly off the handle.
Joe, you really ought to take this asa a compliment for SG-1. If the fanbase is this easy to get into a panic then you still have a very loyal fanbase.
Hope to hear read another blog from you soon!
Keep up the good work with Stargate. I trust you and the other execs to do what's best for the show.
Keep us posted,
-Jeremy
You know I just hope this doesn't backfire on Amanda. Remember a few years ago the rumors about new castmember during negotiation with actors? It may all simply be contract negotiation and that's always tough. But maybe with the support AT is getting it'll backfire on TPTB.
Regardless though, I miss RDA and Jack a lot, but there's more missing than just him in the show that used to be my fave. I hated the first 5 episodes (and I actually like Daniel) and look the all men producer team thinks it was the best ever. I'm sure it was fun to write, but the humour is so low, it's definitely not what I would expect from classy and intelligent show like SG. And that's the crux of the matter for me, it used to be intelligent with good stories, but sadly no more. Now we get woman in tight leather suit, men in sleevless shirts and leather pants and sexual innuendos in every other sentence. There's no team either, just four people working together. As for the Ori, I don't need religious fanatics in an hour of entertainment. Thank you very much, I can turn on the news and get enough of that. And for all the touting how you were supposed to go back to the roots, I for one didn't see that happening. I know a show on the air for so long needs change, but this is simply a change I do not enjoy. Maybe RDA got out just in time.
But in the end it's just an hour of TV and not watching it won't be the end of the world. There's other shows and there's a couple I definitely look more forward seeing than SG1. I admit though I find it hard letting go and I still get worked up about it getting ruined. I suppose once skiffy has the record of those 10 seasons that'll be the end of it. And the sad thing is I wouldn't even be upset if the show got cancelled today.
I guess I shouldn't have figured that people could put two and two together... I didn't say that Amanda shouldn't get her old job back after her maternity leave. I said that labor law recognizes you can't always hold a job open for a person and requires a company to at least offer a similar one if a woman's original job isn't open.
In Amanda's case, they felt they had to replace her and they did so with someone who was supposed to be temporary and who did such an incredible job that many people wanted her to stay and weren't all that interested in Amanda coming back. Who pleased the writers enough that they want her to continue on in some way and come back. Added to that was the whole leadership thing... they had to replace her as SG-1 leader (although I don't think she was ever formally given command, she got it mostly because Jack didn't want to deal with assigning someone else to take his place) to make the show work. Many people, including it seems the writers, think the new leader is doing a good job and so now they are in this untenable position of co-leadership which doesn't work for the military. Some people feel Sam should get command back again, and others felt she did a terrible job the first time and want to keep Mitchell in that position. And there's all the baggage that Sam carries around from the romance or debacle of a non-romance with Jack (depending on your point of view), which in many eyes diminished her and certainly diminished her leadership skills.
Like it or not, the show had to move forward without her and now that she's back, fitting her back into what the show is right now doesn't seem to be proving that easy (maybe it's better in the second half, maybe not).
No one is kicking her out -- they said she's getting the same number of episodes as everyone else -- in other words, she's back with the company. But it looks like they are exploring the possibility of giving her a similar job rather than her old job. And it might be a good thing for her, so she can start fresh, without being encumbered by the past where a good number of people loss their love for her and won't be resented for interfering with the presence of the new people some have grown to love. Where she can flex her muscles and show what she can do, rather than be stuck in the same place. And when all is said and done, maybe she'll be back where she was -- from what she said, they told her they haven't figured it out yet... that's a far cry from kicking her out because there's no place for her. No one has said she's being demoted. No one has said she's being wallpapered. No one has said she losing anything that makes her what she is. What it sounds like is that she jumped the gun and ran off to gather support in fandom when she hasn't even yet seen whether she likes what they are proposing or not. And now fans are riled up about what they think might happen... not knowing what is actually happening.
OMG, 369 comments as I post this!! That is amazing! Just want to say I told you so about Las Vegas. :( Sorry the beds sucked, I hate sleeping on hotel beds! ew
I love Ben! He is so incredibly talented and HOT! I don't see how anyone could say anything bad about him :is mad: creeps! Glad you brought him on board! *hugs Joe* Can we have more shirtless Cam, pleeeeeeeease? LOL us thunkers would never stop loving you!:is serious: This will be terse because less is more. Love....purple :D
Sheesh. I like SG1 (and SGA) but it's a television show, not the second coming. If a show entertains me, I'll watch it, and I'll appreciate the work of both cast and crew to create it. If not, I'll hit the remote. I'm not about to have an apoplectic fit on the internet about it.
Take a deep breath, count to ten, and if all else fails, make yourself a brew and dunk a couple of digestives. You'll live longer.
Oh, and as an aside - Season Five of Oz? Great show. Hope you're enjoying it, Joe!
yes very good. I feel for you on the bad bed. I stayed at a hotel in Las Vegas and it was horrible.
I thought that Season 9 of Stargate SG-1 was entertaining but, still needs some time to grow. It still needs some work.
Note: You better not make Orlin die or I will CRY!
"on't see sam carter loving jack o'neill to be destructive to her character. she fell in love with him, he with her, and then they both sacrificed their desires to care for their planet first and foremost. they both tried to move on, too, but in the end, they couldn't fight what they felt for one another. a simple love story played out in the background of sg1's travels."
Hey, Sally,
Amanda is very lucky to have you as a loyal fan. :)
I know you like the shippy stuff and that's fine, but in reality there are a lot of people who don't.
The problem wasn't the idea; it was the execution..for whatever reason.
And for a lot of people it lessened Carter's character in their eyes because ALL she became about was her Jack obsession.
A few years ago, the level of critism (SNIT, Spam Carter) of Sam that we have now would have been unthinkable. She was pretty universally well liked except in a couple of places. I lurk and post all over the net and the dissatisfaction with the character is widespread and it is squarely at the feet of the people who write her.
Examples?
Janet's dead? At least it wasn't YOU, Sir.
Cassie lost her mom? Ah, well, she's a tough kid. Now hug ME 'cause I had a tough day worrying about you.
Daniel's missing? Why are you talking to a pretty girl in your office, Sir?
Pete bought me my dream house? Let me check one more time to see if Sir wants me yet.
Jack's dying? But I want to talk about MY feelings.
Sam is given leadership of SG-1 in Lost City? Now, Sir, about MY feelings.
Jacob and Janet appear to have been sacrificed so that Jack and Sam could cuddle without the court martial.
They wrote her into a corner.
They won't write her as the real leader of SG-1 for whatever reason. And they didn't really write her very convincingly as the leader in season 8. It was like she was still second to Jack. And the pouting in Zero Hour. Please.
They can't ship her with Jack who is not there. No great conflict or drama acting opposite no one.
They can't ship her with anyone else because then she will look trampish.
All they seem to know to do with her is give her the technobabble. And have former love interests (Orlin, Barrett, Rodney) sigh over her from a far.
Sad, sad, sad.
Perhaps Atlantis would be the best move for the character. Sam and Rodney have great sparks and I don't even want a romance. Perhaps he could find out that his idol has feet of clay like everyone else and they could have some kind of a prickly but interesting friendship/working relationship.
I have nothing but best wishes for the actress and I think it is terrific that she has fans who are sticking up for her.
But I think the writers deconstructed Sam to suit some shippy agenda and now are seeing that maybe it wasn't such a good idea. A lesson in all this? Be careful what you ship for, you might get it.
Regards
Oh, enough with the shipper debate. Cripes, shippers, get over it. RDA is gone. If he comes back, then maybe they'll be something for you. Antishippers, you really need to get over it. Sam and Jack do love each other. That's how they were written onscreen. IF RDA does come back, you get bet you ass there probably will be ship. If he does come back, it will likely come to light that they have been together. Deal with it, everyone. And this is not about Carter's character as much as it is about Amanda Tapping. SG-1 is her show. As long as she wants to be on it, she should be. Even if it is dying a slow death with the new direction.
Amanda has been treated horribly, but not surprisingly by TPTB. They have been maneuvering to diminish her character's presence since they brought Browder in as a Lt. Col. instead of a subordinate officer. Typical male writers, male producers, male everybody it seems in charge not wanting a woman in a leadership role. And just because there are some enlightened males in the profession creating shows like Commander in Chief, Cold Case, Medium, The Closer, Alias does not mean this behavior is not typical. For some absurd reason TPTB have decided that SG1 viewers would rather be titillated than intellectually challenged and so Vala has to have more on screen time? In her present incarnation as liar, thief and vamp, I don't see her usefulness to the SG1 universe. To say that Sam no longer has a role as an astrophysicist, expert in gate technology, high-ranking AF officer, pilot is an unmitigated load of garbage.
It seems to me that at least some of TPTB are cozying up to the few rabid anti-Sam people out there and saying that because Jack is gone Sam no longer has a place. What tripe! Sam cared about Jack, yes maybe even loved him, but is perfectly capable of continuing on with her mission without him around. So what if they cared about each other? It never interferred with saving the earth and many other worlds and peoples innumerable times. Yes there are a delusional few who think Sam's entire being was caught up with her desire for Jack, but look at what they say and how they say it and you can see that that is nothing more than a thinly disguised excuse for them to dislike (dare I say hate?)Sam and her portrayer. They are the very few, and the many think that Sam and Amanda are getting a raw deal by not being in their rightful places as leader (or co-leader) of SG1 and leading actor of the show. I like Cam but think he is in the wrong position, and I even can enjoy small doses of Vala if they keep her clothes on (I think both actors are fine if they are given decent material), but Sam has earned her place and ought not be usurped.
Mahinasmama (AKA Eve)
And I forgot to say...Amanda(if you ever read these things) you are the heart and soul of this show and deserve much better. Go where your heart leads you and you are appreciated. Your true fans will follow. If TPTB at SG1 see the light and rectify their egregious errors in judgement (and properly give you the respect you deserve) than I will gladly watch you as Sam. Otherwise, I and so many others know you will be great on some other show and will watch that instead of the travesty that used to be SG1.
Mahinasmama (AKA Eve)
The heart and soul of the show is DANIEL JACKSON.
IMO they are doing this because Carter makes their new Male Lead look bad. Plus many fans have reacted poorly to Mitchell as leader or co-leader and they won't accept it as long as Carter is around. She is more experienced with the Gate and Offworld missions, she knows aliens and how to deal with them, friend and foe, she clearly runs circles around Mitchell when it comes to command of the team, etc., etc. They (mgm/sony/skiffy/bridge?) the male lead and they have to remove the impediment that makes him look bad and incompetent, so they remove Carter from playing a pivotal, integral role in SG1 by splitting her with SGA - plain and simple crock o' crap.
Oh and the soul of SG1, the person that they waited for to make SG1 a team again, is Sam Carter. In the words of Damien Kindler - Carter is the backbone of SG1 she is the Obi-Wan Kenobi of SG1.
Binkpmmc
Wow... 379 comments.
Thanks Joe for commenting on the character/actor bashing.
Like every show, every character will have it's fans and its haters (although those anti-sam people are a little rabid with thier opinions :S).
I do have to agree with some people about the character heavy episodes and how it's semi-not fair to the others, but I understand that for the show to keep going, it's important to establish the new characters. Personally, I still haven't grasped Mitchell's character yet. It's too similar to Jack's right now, and I'm hoping that he isn't going to turn out to be an Ancient bc that's kinda going a little too far with unoriginality.
AT is a great actress, and I absolutely love her character. I loved how she developed from "exposition girl" to someone who contributes an integral part of the team component... but on that note, I'm kind of finding AT/Sam reverting back to her role as the nerdy scientist explaining everything. Her dialogue seems so dry and one-dimensional now. She (Actress/character..either one) deserves better. I would love for her to have more episodes like Grace.
Like all human beings, I'm resistant to change and I'll still love the original SG1 team more than the new one, but still a loyal fan and watching...
Oh and I don't know if it's "official" official, but congrats on the renewal of both SG's on their new seasons!
--Jen
Hey, these are the same folks that said Daniel's arc was over once too. They have limited ideas. What Sam is now, the writers made her.
You know, this is why I don't get emotionally attached to characters anymore. Actors move on, characters get written out. Fans get screwed.
I like a lot of different characters but I won't ever get attached to one. Never again.
I must express my disappointment at the latest news (rumors?) that I've heard about you not knowing what to do with the character of Samantha Carter. I don't see how you could *not* know what to do with her. She is truly an amazing character and is a great role model for women (young and old). The fact that Amanda wasn't even given the courtesy of a phone call is absolutely rude. Claudia Black and Ben Browder, who may be great actors, simply do not belong on Stargate SG-1. I have heard that you wanted to rename the show "Stargate Command". Perhaps "Farscape SG-1" would've been a better name. Season 9 has, in my opinion, been unwatchable. I have the power of the almighty dollar. I am choosing not to put one more dollar of my hard earned money in your pocket. I will no longer attend conventions, I will no longer buy the DVD's, I will not purchase one more thing that has the SG-1 logo on it. I'm done.
Dear Joe, wow, I really hope Amanda wasn't treated with such disrespect deliberately. She deserves better.
And IF the speculation is accurate that Carter is being cut back on SG-1 to make room for more Vala, I just want to express my extreme disappointment.
Sam Carter is an awesome character. She's one of the main reasons this 40 year old woman watches your show. Replacing her with Vala smacks horribly of chasing a different viewer demographic with sexual innuendo, T&A, and juvenile humor (hope I'm wrong, but really, what are we to think?). Not to mention the dumbing down of storylines since you (collectively) apparently can't figure out what to do with your resident scientist/soldier.
I don't mean this to sound like a threat - it is just a simple statement of fact - but if Carter is cut from SG-1 in favor of Vala, I hope you find your new audience quickly, because it will take some pretty spectacular writing to keep me watching. Change is not always a bad thing, but going from class (Carter) to crass (Vala) is not a change for the better, I think.
And I really, really hope that none of these IFs come to be. I can't help but think that a change like this would be the catalyst that finally causes the show to tank.
Cheers,
Leslie
The heart, soul and brain of SG1 is Sam Carter. If you don't need an astrophysicist when dealing with intergalactic gate travel, why the heck do you need an archeologist? And I, unlike some certain others, am not saying this to get rid of Daniel Jackson. Carter fans don't do that.
I agree with the person who says he/she won't get attached to a character again. I did get attached to Sam because she is so rare not just in SF but in TV and movies. A strong, loving, competent, accomplished person who is a great role model for my now 6.5 yo daughter. And for those who deride the idea of a character being a role model, Amanda herself is also a good role model. I haven't been fortunate enough to attend a convention to meet her, but I have never heard anyone, anywhere (discounting some stupid forum stuff) say anything negative about the person AT. And that is what is so disgusting about this situation. But I would bet my last penny that AT will handle this whole situation with more grace and dignity than is even warranted given how despitefully she has been used.
Mahinasmama
I'll repeat once again: DANIEL JACKSON is the heart and soul of the SG-1.
I am shocked to hear that TPTB (whether it's SciFi or SG producers) "don't know what to do" with Sam Carter.
What? Is she getting in the way of the new over-sexed SG-1? If S10 is like the first few eps of S9, you've lost a household as viewers. Neither my husband nor I could stomach the first few eps, and we won't be buying DVDs of S9 either.
But I didn't mean to go off the handle. Sam Carter is the heart, soul and brains of SG-1. She should be the team leader, and the fact that no one knows what to do with her tells me there's a lot wrong behind the scenes just now.
And before Sam gets sent into oblivion, please, PLEASE, have the decency to give fans a happy ending for Sam and Jack. Yes, it would be better to have RDA on screen to do it. But it can be done without him there too. If no one knows how, just ask the fans. We've constructed many workable scenarios. Two characters who've given so much to country and planet need to have the one thing they want so much: each other.
And just for the record, I have nothing against BB or CB. In fact, I was a fan of Farscape. I'm just shocked that they're being put front and center in front of SG characters we have loved for years.....and who have such tremendous story potential. I just don't think they fit in, because when I see them together, I see Aeryn and John, not Cam and Vala. Also, Cam being the leader goes against SG canon. Someone with no gate experience wouldn't be made a team leader, period. It's just stupid pandering to Farscape fans to make BB the "alpha male."
I'm just sorry to hear that my favorite TV show is going in a direction that will keep me from enjoying it anymore. What a great franchise! Why would anyone choose to screw it up?
I'm not a regular blogger, but I am a Gateworld user. You can just call me sg-1fanintn.
Joe, Just a little update from the
Solutions site:
As of this time Oct. 31, 2005
My favourite SG-1 team character is:
Jack O'Neill 129
Daniel Jackson 277
Samantha Carter 110
Teal'c 31
Cameron Mitchell 25
Jonas Quinn 5
Total votes: 577
Thanks: we have your vote
My favourite female character is:
Samantha Carter 256
Janet Fraiser 113
Vala Mal Doran 247
Osiris 7
Sha'uri 2
Catherine Langford 6
Oma Desala 3
Carolyn Lam 8
Anise 5
Total votes: 647
Thanks: we have your vote
So a combined total of 366 in both
polls. Even at that site Carter is leading.
LaCroix
Um, if someone feels that Daniel is the heart and soul of SG1, you aren't going to convince them otherwise. And, if someone feels Sam is, you aren't going to convince them otherwise. No matter how many times you post it.
Dani347
Speaking for several of us who in reality don't coun't but non the less wanted to let MGM and SCI FI know that they've lost a HUGE portion of their fan base. We saw, we heard, and we realize that the online fandom means nothing to them, but Neilson Ratings do!
So Long!
****
And a personal note to Joe -
Get out while you still can, run for your life before they screw you in the back too!
So a combined total of 366 in both polls. Even at that site Carter is leading.
That's a clever bit of non-math, considering Carter is the only one who is listed in both polls! The polls show Carter is third favorite character on the team and only slightly ahead of Vala as favorite female on the show, even though Vala has only been in 7 episodes. I don't think that's the site you want to quote if you're trying to prove Sam is the bestest character evah.
Doesn't anyone else feel even vaguely that AT should not have shared all these details with fans? Now they're all stirred up and making horrible accusations over something that is none of our business - contract negotiations. And of course we've only heard one side of that story.
As I understand it, Amanda told people at the beginning of the convention to let them know that she herself didn't know what was going on because she knew they'd ask her questions about Carter and Season 10...
As for my feelings on this issue, I am thoroughly disturbed by the notion that there's a possibility of and SG-1 where Carter is a recurring character and Vala is a regular. I fear that perhaps the ivory tower decision makers have tuned into the wrong forums *cough*SONY*cough* and gathered by the posts by the "Vala Instead of Sam Fan Club" over there that this was what the majority of fandom wanted. If this is the case, then that bodes poorly for a season 10.
Joe...not sure if you're interested anymore in these comments...I think this one here is like 7,428...but just in case, I want you to know that most of us get that there's more going on than we can see. We get that things are in flux and that there are things outside of Bridge's control...and that fussing at you would be pointless but I think you should know how I and many other longtime fans feel. I've watched the reactions from fans across the board of fandom talk about how bad of an idea this really is. People who can't agree whether or not water is wet agree on this one thing. I hope this is an idea that is just being bantied about and then discarded when they see that this idea is almost universally panned.
I was just starting to like the idea of Vala and Sam developing a strong friendship based on their differences and similarities...it would have added really interesting dimensions to both characters I think. I could see her as an intriguing recurring character that spiced things up when she was there and never once imagined her as the fulltime character and Sam as a recurring. I have to say I am confused by the idea of pushing forward Mitchell and Vala while diminishing Carter. This sets up me and many other longtime fans to thoroughly resent both of these characters immensely. The moment I see Sam's SG-1 patch on Vala's shoulder, I'll know for a fact that the death knell has finally tolled. The thought that somehow Vala could serve as a viable replacement for Sam is simply laughable and I feel like I'm in the Twilight Zone as I consider that this is actually on the table.
Sam is much more than the measure of her feelings for Jack. She is an accomplished scientist, a leader, a friend, a hero...What was wrong with the idea of keeping Sam an integral member of the team or even upping her involvement so that she is the nexus that Jack was for so long? Having her grow in her leadership and relationships with the established cast and new characters? I wonder now if this is the answer to the leadership debate...simply diminish Carter's contributions and therefore Mitchell is "the leader" whether he is one or not.
I held on through the first few episodes only because I knew Carter would be returning...I know a lot of other people felt the same way too. I believed then that TPTB (and I mean the whole lot collectively) respected Amanda, saw who Sam is and knew she was irreplaceable as a strong, competent compassionate hero and role model. I'm sad to see now that perhaps my faith in TPTB collectively seems to have been misplaced.
I am also thoroughly saddened to say something I never thought I'd ever say as a longtime fan of the show...this would be my proverbial "last straw." I've already lost several of the story lines/characters I love dearly...and since Carter was the one thing holding me to watching SG-1 to see her progress and continue in this new setting without O'Neill around and with these new faces and challenges, I'd have nothing left that I really cared about on the show anymore if she were diminished or phased out.
The very thought of Sam not on the team depresses me greatly, and I imagine this would have to be the case if she was a recurring character...wow, that's very hard to type.
So if this is how it all plays out, then Stargate SG-1 will be out one more fan in me and I know for a fact that many, many others will follow...all of us wondering where our SG-1 went as Anise, I mean Vala, replaces Sam on the team.
I sure hope things aren't what they seem and I wake up from this nightmare soon.
Mary Beth
I must laugh. CARTER is the heart and soul of the show? LOL! Didn't you all see Fire & Water? As much as you would like to believe that, Jack said Daniel was the heart and soul of the program. Daniel opened the stargate. Without him, there would be no stargate program. Sam is just a hangers on....
someone said:
//In Amanda's case, they felt they had to replace her and they did so with someone who was supposed to be temporary and who did such an incredible job that many people wanted her to stay and weren't all that interested in Amanda coming back.//
fans of sam carter were.
//Who pleased the writers enough that they want her to continue on in some way and come back.//
i seem to remember the writers gushing about vala when they were making prometheus unbound. saying she was great and they would love for her to come back. and this was 'before' the fans even saw the ep or character. the writers decided then and there to have her back, and it wasn't based on fan reaction (which has been very mixed).
//they had to replace her as SG-1 leader (although I don't think she was ever formally given command, she got it mostly because Jack didn't want to deal with assigning someone else to take his place) to make the show work.//
she was given sg1 'as her own'.
//Like it or not, the show had to move forward without her and now that she's back, fitting her back into what the show is right now doesn't seem to be proving that easy (maybe it's better in the second half, maybe not).//
she was gone for 5 episodes only. how far can the show move past her in that time? and what about loyalty to a long term character? at least when daniel jackson was replaced, he wasn't replaced 'while' he was still on the show.
//But it looks like they are exploring the possibility of giving her a similar job rather than her old job. And it might be a good thing for her, so she can start fresh, without being encumbered by the past where a good number of people loss their love for her and won't be resented for interfering with the presence of the new people some have grown to love.//
interfering with the new ppl? you mean the ppl that have been in 'episodes' instead of 'seasons'? the new ppl take precedence over a 9 year veteran?
//What it sounds like is that she jumped the gun and ran off to gather support in fandom when she hasn't even yet seen whether she likes what they are proposing or not. And now fans are riled up about what they think might happen... not knowing what is actually happening. //
amanda told her fans the truth, warning them that she might not be coming back. nothing hinky there.
sally :)
someone said:
//But I think the writers deconstructed Sam to suit some shippy agenda and now are seeing that maybe it wasn't such a good idea. A lesson in all this? Be careful what you ship for, you might get it.//
all your examples seen colored by your interpretation (and preference) of things. i never saw them that way and never will. i'm not blind, i'm just not against the sam carter character to let my bias color my judgement of her.
but every opinion is just that, important, but still an opinion.
sally :)
I must laugh. CARTER is the heart and soul of the show? LOL! Didn't you all see Fire & Water? As much as you would like to believe that, Jack said Daniel was the heart and soul of the program. Daniel opened the stargate. Without him, there would be no stargate program. Sam is just a hangers on....
It's funny that all the Daniel fans (sorry not all, just the vocal ones) complaign that all the Sam/Jack shippers did was rave about 'Stargate: Sam and Jack'. Well all I see from the Daniel or Daniel/Jack fans is 'Stargate: Jack and Daniel'. And you know what? I really dont think this is a case of Sam being a poor character. I think its a 'They dare not show our OTP on screen???' Well guess what. You guys are as bad as the Shippers.
Remember back in the school days how a kid would call someone a nasty name, so the other would retaliate? That's all it sounds like to me between Sam/Jack and Daniel/Jack 'fans'. The difference being, that I see, is that the Sam/Jack shippers dont have a need to bring down Daniel at the same time. It may make them the lesser of two evils in my book, but they are still both evil.
I want Sam to stay because I like SAM. I dont like Sam/Jack ship. I certainly dont like what supposed 'fans' (read mainly Daniel or Jack/Daniel and I apologise to the sane ones) have to say about the character, but I do know that I watch Stargate for Sam. I think people should stop trying to draw generalisations on the Sam fans and let them show their support for her. Or is only the Daniel/MS fans who are allowed to do that?
Anonymous said...
I'll repeat once again: DANIEL JACKSON is the heart and soul of the SG-1.
For you perhaps, and although the writers put those words in Jack's mouth, not everyone agrees with them. If you believe Daniel is fine, believe it and be happy. Others believe Sam is and they can believe that.
Kim
Whoa - I wonder if Joe is actually going to bother to read through all this bitching and whining? And to think that Daniel fans are accused of being obsessed with their favorite character and thinking he's the be all and end all of Stargate. Looks like they have nothing on Sam fans - LOL! Whatever happened to "Trust TPTB - it's their show and they have the right to take it in any direction they choose. If you don't like it then don't watch it." Hmmm?
Personally I've been enjoying season 9 and am very much looking forward to a 10th season and keeping my fingers crossed that everyone signs for it. So yes Joe - contrary to what some people might want you to believe - there are quite a few fans who are enjoying season 9 and who are excited about season 10. So congrats and keep up the good work.
Simon
If Daniel is the heart and sould of Sg1 then he's been doing one crappy job for a number of years now. The show has been without soul since season six. It's only been without a brain since Amanda Tapping was out on maternity leave. Dumber, smuttier, soulless SG1 is nothing to be proud of. If I were in AT's place, I'd bail before they pull something really stupid, like a space baby. Oh....
Whoa - I wonder if Joe is actually going to bother to read through all this bitching and whining? And to think that Daniel fans are accused of being obsessed with their favorite character and thinking he's the be all and end all of Stargate. Looks like they have nothing on Sam fans - LOL! Whatever happened to "Trust TPTB - it's their show and they have the right to take it in any direction they choose. If you don't like it then don't watch it." Hmmm?
Personally I've been enjoying season 9 and am very much looking forward to a 10th season and keeping my fingers crossed that everyone signs for it. So yes Joe - contrary to what some people might want you to believe - there are quite a few fans who are enjoying season 9 and who are excited about season 10. So congrats and keep up the good work.
Simon
But Simon - the opposite is just as true. The Daniel fans felt villafied for speaking out against it, and there was a huge (understandable) outcry. Now the shoe is on the other foot so to speak. And the Daniel fans are laughing it up? Two wrongs dont make a right.
I wasn't around back then, and I feel abit embarressed to know that fans of my favourite character (and the shippers, but I aint no fan of that ;)) said all those things, but to see it come back from the very people who were on the other side seems a bit... petty.
Oh, I see, Daniel's the heart and soul of SG1 because Jack said so. Of course, he also said that Sam was a national treasure, so I guess that makes that true too. And he said that the whole Replicarter bit wasn't her fault either, so that's true as well. In fact, I don't think you Danny Ranters really want to go down this road of "if Jack says it, then that's the way it is", because I'm pretty sure it'll ruin most of your elaborate make believe scenarios about the show. I'm just saying.
Sam Carter is the heart of Stargate SG-1 for me and many other fans. Sam Carter is an important and central character to the stargate universe and SG-1 team for even many more fans. To reduce Amanda Tapping's role to a recurring status on SG-1 is an incredibly horrible idea---one that is unconscionable. I simply cannot believe that this is even possible. It is like a bad dream--a nightmare. She has been on this show for 9 years--- worked hard on this show for nine years. And most importantly, she is a MAJOR part of why it has been so successful over the years. She does not deserve to be mistreated in this way. I hope TPTB will hear that loud and clear.
Cathy
Erm I love SG-1 and Sam....but its only a tv show!!
A 15-year-old actor playing 'Jack' showed more charisma and leadership ability of men than Sam ever did, even when she was being touted to be a 'leader' by her rank. It took a 15-year old to get pilots to listen to her -- not her own abilities. They sat there mocking her and not paying attention despite the rank on her uniform and she stood there helpless to change it. The more the writers put her in situations of giving commands, the more she shows she isn't suited for it. Science, yes, she's great at it. Leadership, no.
And I don't think she was given SG-1 'as her own' as someone here said... Jack was having trouble putting someone in there as a replacement, she suggested there was nothing in the rulebook saying the team had to be four and couldn't be three, so he leapt on that, said 'there you have it' which is a paraphrase of his expressive way of talking with his hands, not an indication he was giving it to her. Hence, she got it by default of him not wanting to make a decision. And then Jack proceeded to look over her shoulder, refuse to send her out until he had sufficiently experienced backup for her, and tell Teal'c to carry out his orders in case she failed to. Meanwhile she pouted (to the point that even Daniel tried to placate her), chased Jack down the hall to see if he gave her an approval rating in her evaluation, bounched up and down like a kid when she got his pat on the head, and then whined and badgered him until he told her Replicarter wasn't her fault (and he was right -- it was his fault -- he should have never sent her out there to do that job -- he knew she wasn't capable of it or he wouldn't have kept checking on her with Teal'c; instead, he should have sent a real colonel who understood chain of command who didn't have an inflated ego that thinks she can solve everything, understand everybody, and manipulate everyone to her own way of thinking. Or he should have gone himself, or would have if he wasn't played by three day a week by that time RDA.
At least Mitchell was given the position in full recognition of his capabilities by his superiors, if not by all the fans who come here.
I said the same thing about the poll...
If Sam gets moved to Atlantis they'll just pair her up with Rodney and we'll loose all that lovely snarkiness with Rodney and Sheppard and the rest of the Atlantis cast will be shoved aside to make way for her big storylines.
Keep Atlantis the way it is it rocks!! Keep Sam where she belongs on SG1.
Not all Atlantis fans are SG1 fans and the Atlantis cast is doing a great job with great storylines and wonderful characters leave them alone.
Welcome! Today is November 19, 2005
TODAY ON THE CALENDAR:
Stargate SG-1 airs on SCI FI (6:00pm E/P)
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SG-1 EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
JOSEPH MALLOZZI'S BLOG
Sunday, November 13, 2005
December 13, 2005
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For all your complaints about spoilers, you end up posting your blog a month early. I think someone's been playing with near misses on a neutron star, or has been borrowing a certain mysterious puddle jumper. What does that do to causality, when you jump ahead and read your own blog. It would help budgeting, but could lead to a stuffy creative meeting......"OK, everyone, here are your ideas from next week, let toss them around and see what we did with them....."
OK: Your PC date looks like its a month off, or a typo. If it get's fixed now, it doesn't confuse people religiously reading through your blog entries 40 years from now, when they get around to the SG1 Series Finale.
Being retired from the US Army one of the things I always loved about SG-1 is that its always been very accurate in portraying how people actually think in the American military. The military characters on the show are people I could imagine having served with. I know
these people. They're real to me.
Something you ought to do with Cameron to make him more real is give him a family like Sam and Jack and Janet Frasier and Hammond had. The American military isn't a bunch of cloned mercenaries like in Star Wars. We have personal lives outside of our camoflage superhero costumes. Cameron acted like he wanted to marry SG-1 instead of just serve with them. As close as Sam and Jack were, like Jack once said maybe a little too close sometimes, there were always people like Jacks ex-wife and his son Charlie and Sam's brother and Pete who were never in the military but were important people to them. That's one of the things that makes SG-1 stronger than the self-worshipping Goa'uld or the Orii. Cameron needs that. He needs to have some sort of life outside the military.
Vala is a great character. I love everything you've done with her. She has a wierd alien way of looking things from our view, like Teal'c has, but her alien view goes in totally opposite extreme direction from his, although they both have a common desire for the natural freedom in mutual trust of their human friends instead of the cruel totalitarian artificiality of the Goa'uld or the Orii. She's perfect for Daniel, who needs to have somebody to spar with over long term versus immediate needs like he always did with Jack which has always been so much a part of Stargate going all the way back to the movie. Now she really can't replace Sam as "the girl" in SG-1 because their characters are so totally opposite. You can have a lot of fun playing around with how their characters relate to each other since in some ways it's like taking the Jack-Daniel dialogues but making intellectual Daniel the military guy and military Jack an extrovert civilian and changing them both from guys to women. I'm looking forward to seeing how that plays out.
Let me close by extending congrats to you for having SG-1 get picked for a history making tenth season, the longest running sci fi series ever. You guys earned it. I don't think I've ever seen an episode I didn't like and I've seen pretty much all of them.