Wow! My blogs usually average about a 100 fan comments, but the October 21st entry boasted 401+ posts and counting! Congratulations to everyone who's accolades, criticisms, and belligerent tirades made my last blog number one.
Well, its that time of year again when all manner of rascals and rogues take center stage to thrill and chill, dispensing tricks and trickery with bloodcurdling, spine-tingling aplomb. I'm of course referring to contract negotiation time. Speaking of which, I couldn't help but notice more than a few near-hysterical posts touching on this very subject. Who's staying? Who's going? Who's staying and going? Let's put some rumors to rest or, at the very least, attempt to allay some concerns.
1. There are currently no plans to introduce Star Jones as the new sassy, straight-shooting Chief Medical Officer. This rumor has no basis in fact.
2. There are currently no plans to introduce Dominar Rygel XVI as the new sassy, straight-shooting alien/scientist team member. Okay, this one has some basis in truth. We did, in fact, contact his representatives about the possibility of his coming aboard, but reached an impasse when Rygel insisted he be granted a bigger trailer than Ben Browder's. There were suggestions of a on-going feud between the two dating back to their Farscape days, so the negotiations were shelved. For the time being.
3. There are no plans to turn Stargate into Farscape (the aforementioned rumor notwithstanding). Yes, Ben and Claudia were on Farscape but - and here's where it gets tricky for fans who never watched Farscape - the characters they played on that show were very different from the ones they play on this show. This is particularly true of Claudia who's Aeryn Sun was, for all intents and purposes, the dissenting voice of sanity aboard Moya - a far cry from Vala Mal Doran. So, no. There are no plans to turn Stargate into Farscape.
Unless we get Rygel.
4. I'm not involved in the contract negotiations and so have no say in who is being offered what and when (If I did, I would have been asked to return for the show's 10th season by now). However, I do know that all members of the cast have made known their desire to return for a 10th season. Now, its just a matter of working out a deal that is amenable to all concerned. Hopefully, that will happen sooner than later.
5. Finally - I've always felt that Amanda has one of the toughest jobs on the show as she's the one usually relied upon to deliver reams of scientific exposition - and sound believable doing so. She does and - she does. Its a tough task, but she's done it time and again. So much so that we almost take it for granted she'll do an excellent job as we script those dense, chock full o' technobabble soliloquies. Like the characters of Daniel Jackson, Teal'c, and Mitchell, Samantha Carter brings more to the show than a mere area of specialty - so its ridiculous to suggest "we wouldn't know what to do with her character". HOWEVER, taken in the general sense, such a statement could apply to season 10 (the overall arc, the individual character storylines) because we can't really start work on season 10 until: a) our deals are in place so that we can begin spinning, b) the actors' deals are in place so that we know for certain who we are writing for. We're still in the preliminary planning stages, so before everybody gets bent out of shape regarding any proposed changes, be aware that, at this point, nothing is written in stone.
6. Oh, and - I've read the comments and concerns being circulating and, while I want to reiterate that nothing has been firmly decided re: season 10, I'm also going to come out an make a potentially heretical statement. As a fan of Samantha Carter and Amanda Tapping, I would be thrilled at the prospect of seeing her do some cross-over into Atlantis. There's no reason why she still couldn't travel off-world with the team (same old, same old), AND put in some appearances in the Pegasus galaxy as well (like she did in the upcoming Grace Under Pressure). If you stop to think for a moment - there were episodes (as evidenced by this season in which we had to service a number of new elements including the introduction of a new villain, a new team member, a new General, a new CMO, and an ongoing Jaffa storyline) in which the Carter character played a significantly smaller supporting role (and, of course, there were episodes in which she was in the thick of the action, like Horsemen I and II, Ripple Effect, and Camelot to name a few). So what if, rather than having Carter play the supporting role in a particular SG-1 episode, she were to, instead, play a more decisive role in an Atlantis story? We're not talking about minimizing Carter, but quite literally making the most of her character across two universes (and I dont' mean that literally). In fact, fans of the character would actually be getting more front-and-center Carter, not less. Again, nothing has been decided and when all is said and done this could be much ado about nothing but, personally, I think that, given the chance, it would be a shame not to make full use of the character's potential.
7) Finished the 5th season of OZ and am impatiently awaiting the 2006 release of the 6th and final season. Have moved on to season one of the Outer Limits (so far so so-so) and Futurama season 3 (fave line: The Professor on his new girlfriend - "Some say I'm robbing the cradle - but I say she's robbing the grave." Finished season one of Lost (I really hope against hope they're not just making it up as they go along) and have started season 4 of Alias (No, seriously. When's Lena Olin coming back?). I'm heading onto the final volumes of Wolf's Rain, Read or Die, and Peacemaker - and have completed Level One of Pimsleur's Cantonese (Cheng-mun siu-je!).
Well, that's it for now. As they say in Cantonese: Bye-bye!
I really suspect the old Rygel/Ben relationship has come back to haunt us. That ugly breakup of theirs no doubt the real issue, and the bigger trailer thing merely a coverup. Sure, they were electric together for a while, but...
Sorry to hear that we won't be getting Rygel this season.
Joe, I think that's nice spin on the Amanda Tapping bit, but the fact that she herself brought this up to a roomful of strangers seems to indicate that she's uncomfortable with the proposition. I for one would hate to see Carter on both shows because, no matter how you spin it, you're basically chucking her to the curb for Vala. I also don't appreciate the implication that she's just dead weight on SG1's ass, and that the solution to having such useless character is to send off to a different galaxy to get her out of the way. I'm still prediciting that if you do this it will only cost SG1 viewers and it will only breed further resentment of Mitchell and Vala, who apparently are more worthy than Carter in your eyes. We know your not involved with contract negotiations, but you are involved with the creative aspects of the show and the fact that you're in favor of this bonehead move is truly ghastly. Yes, even more ghastly than The Ties That Bind. I wonder really if you can see what you're doing to this once great show. I wonder if you see what it's turning into--typical sci-fi tripe, replete with sexy space bimbos and bad jokes. You're becoming Galaxy Quest. It's sad that TPTB are stuck on "the frachise" and not on any one show or character. The pieces of SG1 and Atlantis are not interchangeable parts that can be swapped around, juggled, shunted off to the side, or painted anew each time you run out of ideas. I wish you hadn't been renewed, and I wish you'd stop running the show into the ground. Each time you come on here with your pride wounded and scoff at legitimate concerns with the classic "we know what we're about" attitude you lose credibility. All this is coming from a guy who's watched since day one, and who used to think that the show could do no wrong. All that happens now is wrong. It's been a full year since any good news came out for SG1. Everything now is just one bad, bonehead decision after another. We're all so spoiler heavy because we're all so afraid of how bad you're gonna screw up the next time. I'm afraid that this is it for me.
One Less Stargate Fan
So is that a confession that Carter has been screwed for the rest of the season?
So what if, rather than having Carter play the supporting role in a particular SG-1 episode, she were to, instead, play a more decisive role in an Atlantis story?
I'd prefer the guest role, and not a decisive role, as I'd like to see the Atlantis charcters get some more development. We're 1.5 years into Atlantis and we're still waiting to hear backstory on Sheppard and Weir, besides the rare tidbits tossed our way, so, develop what you've got. If Sam should appear on Atlantis, let it be as a guest star and please keep her on SG1 (and yes, I do like Sam, and I like on SG1).
Dear God, you come across as more and more arrogant with every blog. You're obviously aware of what's been railed against online, and you've obviously been sent out by your superiors to make some kind of statement to try and calm things down. Guess what? You failed miserably.
Every single faction of this incredibly fractured fandom has panned the idea of you guys kicking Carter off of SG-1. And, please, don't come on here and try to spin it that it would be better for the Carter character or the actress. The fact that she's worried enough about the whole situation to instigate these concerns is pretty telling in and of itself. It's pretty obvious that Amanda Tapping is unsure of this lamebrain scheme. Maybe it has something to do with the fact that it's a lamebrain scheme?
You writers are having a hard enough time figuring out what to do with many of the characters on Atlantis as it is. Remember Teyla, Weir, Beckett? I don't. But then again, you don't have any episodes about them. And please, don't come on in your next blog and give me the "wait and see what we've got cooking in the second half", because I'm sure it's nothing. And so are many other Atlantis fans. Carter appearing on Atlantis means less development for an already unmanageably large cast. That's the fact of the situation.
And what's with the pathetic notion that Carter has no place in certain SG-1 episodes? That is what you're saying. That when you do certain stories, you don't want Carter there. There was once a time when every story found a place for every character. That's what made SG-1 such a success for so long. And the line that you're trying to maximize the Carter character while reducing the actress to a recurring status over two shows is a poor lie indeed. All the woman did was have a child. Since then you've done nothing but slight the character in favor of the shiny, new cast. That's really low. You think it's a shame not to make full use of the character's potential. So do the rest of us. But it's your own fault that you're not. Your the group that had to have a male lead. Your the group that seems intent on having Vala's tits on parade in every episode. Your the group that has marginalized Carter's contribution to SG-1. There is plenty for Carter to do on SG-1. It's the show that she's made a success for eight years. Likewise, Amanda Tapping has stuck with SG-1 through all the crap you've dealt with. She deserves to stay with the show that she made work. End of story. This insane plan is an insult to the cast of Atlantis and it's an insult to Amanda Tapping. The cast of Atlantis deserves to stand on its own. Amanda Tapping deserves a frontline place with the series that she's ensured continues to line your pockets.
I'm not trying to be too insulting here. Really, I'm not. But the longer you gone on, the more you deconstruct SG-1. Right now, I hope Amanda Tapping doesn't resign. You guys really don't deserve to have her. The best thing you've said in this blog entry is that nothing is written in stone. That's good. I just wish I had enough faith in you guys to abate any of the insane plans you've already put into motion. But I don't. There's apparently too much pride and petulance in you.
Finally, if this perpetually redundant blog and the subpar episodes that we've gotten in season nine are what you're going to continue to contribute, then maybe you should move on from Stargate. You seem pretty uncertain about whether you still belong with the franchise. And you seem pretty indignant when one of your innately brilliant ideas don't send fans jumping for joy. If you're going to be this angry when criticized maybe writing publicly isn't for you.
Derek Samuelson
Umm, I'm not feeling particularly angry and I don't think my blog was particularly angry either. Unlike, say, you're post.
I trust the creative staff and crew of SG1 and Atlantis to make the right decisions. I do agree with the above mention that we need more character development fo r the Atlantis team's members (of course, keeping in mind that SG1 has had nine years thus far - I can't even remember how much character development there was by midway through season two).
I'm kind of partial to having Carter (Amanda Tapping) on both shows in decisive roles. Just make it clear that because Amanda would be (in theory at this point) doing both shows, that she is still appreciated on the show that made her a star and that the creative staff still love Amanda and Sam.
As I said above, though - the cast and crew of both shows have earned my trust and respect. I know whatever you all decide to do will be the right thing to do regarding Sam Carter.
Joe - I'm glad to know you're a fan of Carter. Makes me feel more secure and all :P
I think the knee-jerk reaction was to the rumours was that some fans felt like they were going to get the short end of the stick regarding their favourite character. After reading your blog here, I feel better about the situation :) All I want is KickArse!Carter that wont come at the expense of any other characters.
Though the If I did, I would have been asked to return for the show's 10th season by now is a bit odd... You don't know for sure that you'll be on board for season 10? Could that imply fresh blood into the writing and producing departments?
Oh, and don't worry about the angry fans. Unfortunately you just happen to be the easiest target for them to take their anger out on. But hopefully people will show some commen sence when posting here (naive I know, but I can always hope! :D)
I'd like to see Derek suggest how things could be improved, given Amanda's situation when season 9 was being shot...
My, oh my there are some angry people in the realm of internet fandom.
Thankfully, whilst being a user of the internet and an avid visitor to Stargate websites (Gateworld in particular) I've managed to avoid being suckered into the "factions" that a previous commenter referred to.
Stargate SG-1 is about to become the longest running sci-fi show in US history, as far as I'm aware. Clearly you're doing something right, and that comes across on screen with each episode.
Rotating, shifting and potentially dropping cast members is simply a necessity when a show has run as long as Stargate: SG-1. I love all the characters; they've been with me since my early teens. But there's only so much that can be done with a single character in a single environment, so I'd be the last person to damn you for potentially moving someone like Carter over to Atlantis.
As for S4 of Alias, I just wanna share your feeling; when will we see Lena Olin again?! I just finished S3 and I'm about to start S4, and I'm hopeful for her return.
Just also wanted to say keep up the great work Joe. Whilst there is a vocal online minority who like to slam the producers/writers/people who fetch the coffee, there's a much larger (and mostly silent) majority who love what you're doing. I look forward to seeing how the show progresses through the 9th season and into the 10th. :-)
Ian
Dammit! Rygel isn't signing for season 10? I'm soooo pissed!
I'll admit I feel a little better about things now although I'm still a bit nervous at the idea of shuffling her back and forth. Does this mean she won't be a member of SG-1 anymore? What about CB? Just because she was offered a contract, that doesn't mean "full time" right? That could just mean recurring. She'd need a contract for that too I'd imagine.
And to the post above me, I don't think Joe's being arrogant, I think he has a sense of humor. You might try getting one yourself. ACK! Sorry. There's my sense o' humor for you there. :D On a more serious note, I also harbor some of the fears you are voicing here but I'll give it a little time to see how things pan out.
As for Amanda/Sam, she is an integral member of the show and it was really great that JM acknowledged it...and I hope that some of these concerns regarding leadership etc. are worked out logically and fairly next year.
I also hope to see her as the type of person Jack was...not sense of humor wise, but rather as the person who has a relationship with everyone and is kind of the nexus of the group. She has the depth to do it if TPTB trust her.
Regarding Vala, well I'll stick with Plan A. I'm hoping for a strong friendship dynamic developing between Carter and Vala. I think that with their commonalities (both being hosts) and differences (too many to list) they'd make a really interesting "opposites attract" friendship. It would add depth to Vala...and even to Sam and really could mean a lot of deep and funny scenes between them.
I'll feel lots better when I hear Amanda's signed back on as she is why I'm still a fan of the show.
Still want to know if we'll see Jack again ever...and would love some sort of on screen something between him and Sam to kind of validate the struggle she went through last year...but please understand I mean small acknowledgements. I know that ship is just a small part of her personna and wouldn't mind more but apparently some fans think this is all she is about. But small acknowledgements could only help her at this point.
Hoping for lots more Carter and lots more team interaction next year,
Mary Beth
In response to One Less StarGate Fan:
The fact of the matter remains, "The Powers that Be" (Hallowed be thy names) do know what they're doing. And truthfully, I love the new direction that they're taking the show in. I mean, we can only enjoy so much of infiltrating Ha-Tak vessels.
"All the woman did was have a child."
GOD, YOU MORON! As a 14 year old boy, I can't say much about this, but I'm relatively certain that what you just said easily ranks on the top-ten of "Stupidest things ever said by stupidest people." What, do you expect that the actors and actresses on StarGate must bend to your will and sacrifice their lives outside of the show just so you can be happy? It's people like you that make me sick thinking that Amanda Tappinjg should essentially give up on her newborn child, just so you can see her more on TV, that although it's entertainment, won't matter in the grand scheme of things. Shows don't matter, people do.
To Joseph Malozzi:
Brilliant, brilliant, brilliant. Season 9 has been a blast. Like I said, it's not the best season there was (SEASON 8! SEASON 8!), but it's a close second. You've introduced the Mitchell character well, given him a unique spin as far as personality of the leader archetype, and getting the team back together really felt good. Thusfar, I've thoroughly enjoyed every Season 9 episode I watched. Keep up the great work!
Atlantis, on the other hand... It's better than it was in the first season, and "The Lost Boys" was easily the best episode so far. Yeah, it's true, some Weir, Teyla, or Beckett developing episodes would be great (and we have "The Long GoodBye" coming up, so yeah), but Atlantis is shaping up.
Oh... about "The Long Goodbye." It's a Weir themed episode, right? I vaguely remember a line from "New Order, pt.2" where Weird mentions that she doesn't like long goodbyes...
In conclusion, thank you for StarGate: SG-1, and I can't wait 'till January!
Maybe I'm reading this wrong, but it sounds like you're saying that you haven't been asked back for S10 yet. I find that a little odd. Of course, I find quite a few of the rumors circulating about to be pretty odd. Just what was in that last batch of ice cream you made, anyway?? ;)
You're a master at spin, Joe, and I admire your effort to continue defending your fellow producers, but I don't think there IS a good spin to this particular fiasco. Giving Sam a chance to shine on Atlantis for a while means taking the spotlight away from the characters who are already on that show. I know that character usage break-downs per ep are just as mixed on Atlantis as they are on SG-1, but there are already a plethora of characters wandering through Atlantis and they don't have enough to do as it is. Bringing in YET ANOTHER character, to say nothing of it being someone as pivotal as Sam, forces the others to step aside and make room for her.
Personally, I would LOVE to see more Sam/McKay interaction. I think they have some really great sparkage and I'm immensely curious to see how Rodney would act around her now that he's been "in the field" for so long. HOWEVER... as with many other things, Sam/McKay interaction is probably best left in small doses.
I'd hate to see Atlantis collapse before it gets a chance to really take off (figuratively speaking), but from the direction (or lack thereof) of the season thus far, and given the ominous rumblings of possible future developments... Well, let's just say I'm glad I still have a few other shows to love which aren't in danger of shark attack any time soon. ;) Well, except maybe literally, on the one show.
Needless to say, I'll be keeping the popcorn close by in the coming weeks. I don't think I've ever seen a fandom implode before...
ryu gaia said:
"All the woman did was have a child."
GOD, YOU MORON! As a 14 year old boy, I can't say much about this, but I'm relatively certain that what you just said easily ranks on the top-ten of "Stupidest things ever said by stupidest people." What, do you expect that the actors and actresses on StarGate must bend to your will and sacrifice their lives outside of the show just so you can be happy? It's people like you that make me sick thinking that Amanda Tappinjg should essentially give up on her newborn child, just so you can see her more on TV, that although it's entertainment, won't matter in the grand scheme of things. Shows don't matter, people do.
I dont think anyone was suggesting that at all. It was more to the fact that Amanda herself has clearly expressed her desire to continue working and be a mum. And I commend her for that. The problem comes with the rumour/speculation of her being shut out by the PTB so soon after having a child - it's not a completely outrageous arguement to make. It may be a bit of an extreme call, but it's not that insane considering this is the TV industry...
Thanks for addressing the Amanda/Sam issue. I feel much more at ease about it now.
Um, Derek,
I'm sure that Amanda appreciates the support but maybe a little tact would go a long ways.
I know about the actress personally, but I somehow doubt that would want her co-workers treated so rudely.
Just a thought.
There you go, Joe. That's your audience. Fourteen year old boys. Cheers.
"Giving Sam a chance to shine on Atlantis for a while means taking the spotlight away from the characters who are already on that show."
I disagree. In fact, I think Carter is the type of character that would play well off some of the established Atlantis characters (ie. Weir and McKay come to mind), allowing us to explore their characters through their interactions with Carter.
We have magic with Daniel/Vala...it's possible there'll be magic with Mckay/Carter. It could happen!
Joe,
I still can't get beyond the way you and the other M. handled Jack's exit. I realize the show has to move on, you want the audience to embrace the new characters, out with the old, in with the new, don't mention the old character and people won't notice he's gone sort of stuff. Fans can ask until they're blue in the face and I know you won't give a straight, serious answers, but I still cannot imagine WHY you refused to show us why Jack decided to leave the SGC, what his new job entails and exactly what he is doing now. Doing so would NOT have closed the door on the character; it would NOT have been a farewell, just an explanation. What about all those fans out there who aren't involved in on-line fandom; many of them don't have a clue what happened to Jack; are they chopped liver?
The way you handled it really really annoys me. I don't know if it was an intentional on your part to insult Jack fans, or if you were just incapable of coming up with a good explanation as to WHY Jack would leave the SGC and take a desk job, so you just decided to not address it.
Did I mention it really annoys me?
Schyler Groten
I disagree. In fact, I think Carter is the type of character that would play well off some of the established Atlantis characters (ie. Weir and McKay come to mind), allowing us to explore their characters through their interactions with Carter.
For an ep or two, maybe. But this is sounding like more than an ep or two. And riddle me this: If Jonas and Daniel couldn't exist on the same show because they "both filled the same niche", then what about Sam and McKay?
There you go, Joe. That's your audience. Fourteen year old boys. Cheers.
:| Way to make a completely illogical statement...
I disagree. In fact, I think Carter is the type of character that would play well off some of the established Atlantis characters (ie. Weir and McKay come to mind), allowing us to explore their characters through their interactions with Carter.
I think the concern is not so much that she wouldn't play of the established characters, but that her presence would be reduced development for others. People are just seeing this as adding to the already perceived lack of development for certain characeters (Weir, Teyla and Beckett come to mind).
Would I like to see Sam on Atlantis? Sure. But not at the expense of other characters.
"So what if, rather than having Carter play the supporting role in a particular SG-1 episode, she were to, instead, play a more decisive role in an Atlantis story?"
hum hum... no way. I mean there are a lot of very interested characters in Atlantis who are just waiting to be explored. Their relationships and interactions are brilliant and it's just the biggining of the show. I think bringing a major character like Samantha Carter would seriously arm this balance and the way the show is going.
I'm going down on my knees and plead you not to bring Carter in Atlantis. Atlantis is new, it changes from 9 years of stargate, it does not need to be attached to stargate so obviously...
And I'm a Sam fan, an Amanda fan as well as a torri fan and I would love to see them interact but I love the show even more and I'm sure as hell this would be a mistake. But eh, as you seem to defend the idea so seiously I take it the decision has already been made. Too bad.
Jess
I think Sam is more than just "the scientist". Yes, she does have the science background, but she is a trained soldier as well. Furthermore, she has a fairly strong personality, and a history not only with McKay, but with the Stargate program that dates back to its inception. In other words, she's not only the science expert, but the stargate expert (not to mention the most experienced when it comes to off-world exploration).
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I think Sam is more than just "the scientist". Yes, she does have the science background, but she is a trained soldier as well. Furthermore, she has a fairly strong personality, and a history not only with McKay, but with the Stargate program that dates back to its inception. In other words, she's not only the science expert, but the stargate expert (not to mention the most experienced when it comes to off-world exploration).
She also has a history with Weir, who she strongarmed into letting her and Teal'c go after the Asgard in New Order. Could this be a source of animosity between them?
Additionally, with McKay, is there a chance that Ford DIDN'T delete his yammering about Sam and she saw it after all? That would make for a funny set of scenes...with Sam being flirtateous with him and then subtly (or not) letting him know she saw his recorded confession...
;)
I think Sam is more than just "the scientist". Yes, she does have the science background, but she is a trained soldier as well. Furthermore, she has a fairly strong personality, and a history not only with McKay, but with the Stargate program that dates back to its inception. In other words, she's not only the science expert, but the stargate expert (not to mention the most experienced when it comes to off-world exploration).
Oh definitely :D No arguement there ;) And I will also argue very strongly that she is not just 'The Ship' - an arguement I do not see at all. Possibly because I don't like the ship ;)
I could understand having Carter in Atlantis, but just on occasion. I don't want Carter/AT to lose her main lead status on SG-1. If you are talking about two or maybe three episodes for season 10, that would seem reasonable, but not lterally split between the two shows. I don't think it would be fair to Amanda to lose her regular lead status in SG-1. And I don't think it would be good for either show. The team dynamics/chemistry is what made SG-1 successful all these years. Now the new team of Carter, Daniel, Teal'c and Mitchell needs to spend alot of time in TEAM episodes. And the Atlantis team needs to continue to gel--there is still much to be done to build their chemistry. So, if Sam is mainly on SG-1 as an equal lead character, and visits Atlantis on occasion because the story makes sense, then that may work.
Chocdoc
He didn't mention whether Shanks will be back or not for season 10 (you know the odds).
And here's the link, Joe, so you can get caught up (if your not already)
http://stargate-sg1-solutions.com/blog/?p=404
While I don't agree with the angry sentiment of Derek Samuelson's comment above, I do agree with a lot of the ideas he expresses, especially with regard to half a deserving Atlantis cast that has virtually become scenery (specifically the very three characters he names; one would hardly know they're regulars most episodes, especially poor Beckett).
I have nothing against Carter or Amanda (and I'm sorry some fans can't distinguish between the two), but I can't imagine that she'll come to SGA and have just a few minutes of screen time per episode, such as a guest character like Lorne or Zelenka (who would be wonderful to see more of, but I digress). Screen time for established SGA characters we're still trying to get to know will be lost, not to mention that if Amanda's budgeted in, who or what will be budgeted out?
I'm very disappointed thus far to hear rumors of Tapping's potential move to SGA, on many levels, but I shall try to reserve final judgement until I see what happens to episode quality. It ain't gonna be easy, though.
K. Aigean
well, joe, i don't know what to think about things. still. you say it would be great for sam carter to have two places to play (sg1 and atlantis), but there are a few things that bother me:
*why did amanda have to call/visit rob cooper to find out what was going on? she found out all the other cast mates (including the new regular claudia black) were already signed on but her. that seems rather insulting that she had to go and find out if she still had a job.
*why bring on new characters (mitchell and vala) if all you were going to do was phase out the original character that these new ppl were taking the roles of? meaning, mitchell took sam's command role and vala is taking amanda's leading lady role. why did you write the 'new' ppl taking precedence over the original? shouldn't the 9 year veteran take precedence over the 9 minute ones?
*how are fans not going to feel resentful of the new ppl that pushed out the old?
*how is sam carter/amanda tapping going to fit into a show (atlantis) that already has an established cast (without sam/amanda being resented)?
i'm sorry to throw this out on *you*, but you're the only ptb that's around to hear.
things just don't seem to be sitting well (with a lot of fans).
sally :)
Wow, and I thought I was upset about things. I'm downright sane by comparison. Anyway, I wish these latest words filled me with more confidence than they do, Joe. It seems that you're looking at things in the vein of "this will appease that fan group" and "those fans will eat this bit up". Part of the problem is that Sam Carter isn't seen as part of the Stargate Universe by fans, she's seen as part of SG-1. The idea of moving any of the original team members off of SG-1 while the show is still on the air is always going to come across as wrong. After so many changes for season nine, many of which are questionable at best, futher fracturing the structure of things seems like a bad course of action to many. I for one am not enticed by the notion that the only way to flesh out Carter's character is to move her to another show. There should be, and always has been in the past, plenty of room for all of the characters in an SG-1 story. There still should be.
I know you have nothing to do with negotiations but you are part of the creative team and you do make yourself available to the public and you can certainly carry the message back to those that need to know and do make those decisions.
I find it interesting that the other cast members (including 2 who had been on the show only 1 year and 1 who had only been in at most 7-8 episodes if you count the coming episodes of S9) had all been approached regarding their return status and AT (an integral member of the cast for 9 years) was not and the excuse given was "we don't know what to do with Carter". I find it interesting that in Paragraph 6 you suggest that Carter is a supporting character after 8 years as a core, integral member of a team of only 4 people, 7 of those years as second in command (and sometimes command)of the elite team and 1 year as the sole leader of the elite team of 3, but in S9, and now as a prospect for S10, she is relegated to a "supporting" role in many episodes.
Right there is the problem. The shiny new cast members and the shiny new direction apparently have no integral core place for one of the 2 remaining ORIGNAL characters (and the actress) who has been with this show for all 9 of its years, the "bedrock" of SG1 the "Obi-Wan-Kenobi" of SG1.
It is nice to see you try and put some sort of positive spin on this but it is not working in the context of what you are actually saying - there is apparently a place, a core, integral place on SG1 for Daniel, Teal'c, Mitchell and a place for Vala, however, for the strong, intelligent, independent, competent, loyal, commander and soldier that is Samantha Carter, there is not so she has to be split between SG1 and SGA in order to use all of her potential???!!! This makes no sense.
You started season 9 with Daniel going off to Atlantis - why not follow through and let him go - why Carter? The addition of a new male lead, who looks inexperienced and incompetent next to Carter (and who, as has been noted in many posts, many places by many fans, will not be accepted by many in a co-leader or leader role as long as Carter is around) and the fawning over vala from all sides of TPTB beg that question to be asked and answered honestly - how there can be no full-time, integral, lead role for the character of Samantha Carter after 9 years of development and 9 years as a major, central figure (including comander of the team) on a team of only 4 people (and only 3 people in S8) is a pathetic testimony to the state of affairs at Stargate SG1.
Paragraph 6 overall, in particular this line: "I think that, given the chance, it would be a shame not to make full use of the character's potential" tells the story that after 9 years there is not a full-time, integral, core place on Stargate SG1 "to make full use of the character's potential" the potential of one of it's lead characters, one of the characters that made the show a success for 9 years, that made the show something a large portion of the fanbase wanted to watch, and I say again, that is just downright pathetic, especially when it appears that this is being done to make room for the male lead, who is overshadowed by the strong female lead of Samantha Carter, and a new female character that is nothing but cheap, crass sexual inuendo jokes and a caricature of everything that is wrong with many sci-fi shows and movies.
Binkpmmc
I am personally disheartened by the fact that producers, or whoever is responsible for these decisions, would feel it necessary to spread the character between two shows. No matter the positive spin, and I do agree with some of what you've said Joe (i.e. that it would bring Carter to the forefront vs. being a supporting character), but the fact remains that Sam IS being pushed to the background and as someone who really enjoys that character it takes away from the enjoyment of the show. And if Sam being a background character is a problem then why is Claudia Black being signed on? This signifies to me that TPTB have storylines but they are using them to focus on other characters rather than Carter. Perhaps I just don't like change but this just seems a bad sign for the character for me.
Shipperahoy
Joe Mallozzi said:
"I think Sam is more than just "the scientist". Yes, she does have the science background, but she is a trained soldier as well. Furthermore, she has a fairly strong personality, and a history not only with McKay, but with the Stargate program that dates back to its inception. In other words, she's not only the science expert, but the stargate expert (not to mention the most experienced when it comes to off-world exploration)."
Really? Huh, you'd think with those kind of qualifications she'd be out there leading SG-1, wouldn't you? She must not have the right "equipment". Or maybe that's just it. She's too experienced. We wouldn't want someone who is actually competant leading SG-1, would we?
Sorry, Joe, but this argument is incredibly weak considering the way the writers have shafted (no pun intended) the character in order to have a leading man.
Of course Sam is more than just "the scientist." Just as Jonas was more than "Daniel Lite." I guess Sam lucked out in having a background that makes her far more useful in a variety of places.
Personally, though, I still think the move is a bad, bad idea. There may be oodles and gobs of possibilities inherent in this plan, but that still doesn't mean it's going to work. It doesn't mean it's the right move.
But I know it isn't really your decision to make.
Will you be back next season, if/when they ask you?
I'm with Shipperahoy. Your "explanation" would be alot more believable if there didn't appear to be plenty of room and potential stories for the Fargaters. This IS pushing one character out in order to bring another one in. Anything else is just studio spin.
Maggie534
Other than not keeping AT up to speed in the negotiations (shame, shame), I can't see how she is coming out the loser in this. (although I'm sure someone will enlighten me);)
1. She HAS a contract waiting for her to sigh if she chooses--20 episodes guaranteed.
2. She has the opportunity to work with David Hewlett with whom she has shared some great chemistry.
3. If she chooses not to go the SG route, there is apparently another role waiting for her.
4. AT is a smart cookie. I have no doubt that she is trying to get the best deal possible and dropping the news at a con of her own fans seems like an interesting tactic. I've never really heard of any actor discussing contract negotiations before the fact--lots do after the fact, I realize.
Anyway, good for her if she gets a good deal, but I'm not seeing the downside for her. I mean, imagine, if she had been told that her character didn't warrent an upgrade and not to let the door hit her a** on the way out?
What? They did that already?
I did not see this quote you made in another post here until just now and it intrigues me:
"In other words, she's not only the science expert, but the stargate expert (not to mention the most experienced when it comes to off-world exploration)."
This is exactly the point many people are making as to why the Mitchell situation as co-leader makes absolutely no sense and why the character has not fit in appropriatley for many fans. Carter is "the most experienced when it comes to off-world exploration" and she got that way because she is an integral member of SG1. There was plenty of opportunity to explore the "charaters potential" in S9 and in S10 as the leader of the team - again begging the question - is it the orders from on high that there has to be a male lead and Carter makes that male lead look bad and that there has to be more crass, cheap sexually laden vala and Carter just gets in the way so off she goes to SGA to make the new male lead look better and to make room for cheap sexual innuendo?
Binkpmmc
Joe said:
"I think Sam is more than just "the scientist". Yes, she does have the science background, but she is a trained soldier as well. Furthermore, she has a fairly strong personality, and a history not only with McKay, but with the Stargate program that dates back to its inception. In other words, she's not only the science expert, but the stargate expert (not to mention the most experienced when it comes to off-world exploration)."
Joe, do you realize you just agreed with everyone saying that Carter should have command of SG-1. Freudian slip?
"Joe, do you realize you just agreed with everyone saying that Carter should have command of SG-1. Freudian slip?"
Nope. The fact is, SG-1 was disbanded. Mitchell came in as the new team leader because there was no leader - much less SG-1. At the time Carter rejoined, Mitchell was in charge. Furthermore, if off-world experience is the only qualification for leading a team, then the individual members of SG-1 (Carter, Teal'c, Daniel, and O'Neill) should have been leading their own teams long ago.
I don't see how Amanda is the wounded party here, either.
She's got a contract, she's chosen not to sign it as yet but to work her fans into a righteous lather on her behalf, instead, and now has them demanding nothing short of top-dog status for her on the 'Stargate' front while she considers other offers.
The "innocent lamb" is playing the game.
Wow Joe, I really don't know how you're doing this. If I were you I would've been fed up with *some* "fans" a long time ago.
Good on you.
PG15
Shipperahoy wrote:
And if Sam being a background character is a problem then why is Claudia Black being signed on? This signifies to me that TPTB have storylines but they are using them to focus on other characters rather than Carter. Perhaps I just don't like change but this just seems a bad sign for the character for me.
Claudia will be replacing AT in S10 as the leading lady; I have no doubt about that. The writers have stated that she's fun to write for and it would seem that she appeals to a certain demographic who finds that kind of humor to be funny. She also is liked by Daniel fans because where Vala goes, Daniel goes and the snarky interaction between them thrills Daniel fans. Vala as she is now, would never be allowed to be on SG-1; the military would not allow it in a million years. That a character like Vala does not fit at all on SG-1 doesn't seem to be of any concern for the PTB.
It's all about ratings -- seems like Sony/MGM/Bridge all believe Vala will draw more of the desired demographic than the more "staid" Carter. Plain and simple. It's a business and clearly PTB don't really care about loyalty, or treating long-time actors/characters with respect. Since Joe and Paul ARE writers and writing is what they do for a living, it's reasonable to assume they could come up with good storylines for Carter if they wanted to. I hate to say it, but VALA will be replacing CARTER. They will be losing me as a viewer, but they probably will pick up more of that desired demographic and more fans like Special K. who love Claudia B. (which I do too, but not as Vala on Stargate.)
A sad state of affairs.
Jayden
Joe said:
"Nope. The fact is, SG-1 was disbanded. Mitchell came in as the new team leader because there was no leader - much less SG-1. At the time Carter rejoined, Mitchell was in charge. Furthermore, if off-world experience is the only qualification for leading a team, then the individual members of SG-1 (Carter, Teal'c, Daniel, and O'Neill) should have been leading their own teams long ago."
Actually, I believe O'neill and Carter DID lead their own teams long ago. Short memory?
OK, I'm not trying to be antagonistic, but the corollary to what you're saying is that Sam should be leading, she just isn't. Though, I'm curious, what other qualifications does Mitchell have that gives him lead over Carter, at least in your book?
Joe, we see what you're saying. But you have to understand that *we* also understand, you're working a gig here in as much as you're doing something that may be creative and fun. Lets face it, we say what we gotta say to get the "job" done sometimes. We know (well those of us who are sane do at least) that you're a fan of Amanda's and we know you're a big proponent of Sam Carter, which is why we hope you can somehow get the scope of the (potential) sadness that Amanda's fans would experience if she were cast off in favor of a network executive's decision to get a different female in lead capacity within SG-1. I don't know you, but I figure, honest, as a person, you're probably a really great guy and you probably have as much desire to see the Carter character mishandled as the next SG-1 fan does, but what we want right now is not an assurance from you. Quite frankly, we want to use you. Yeah. I know, crazy honest of me to point that out. We want to float our hope for Carter's future on you as though you were a big honkin' barge. Noah's Arc. Right to (whomever it is that MIGHT be in line to propose something less than positive for the future of the Carter character). We love ya, Joe, but we love your connections even more. ;) So it's a symbiotic relationship really. We're all SG-1 fans here. We know you all love us up there too, but we also know you love our television viewing habits even more... so whether we're waaaaay off base with the very notion that Carter might not play as significant a role next year as she did in season nine, or whether we're not.....we're really just hoping that the fact that you ARE a proponent of the Carter character, might possibly prompt you to consider mentioning the fact that there are thousands of vocal folks out here who'd be seriously bummed out viewers if Carter's character lost her "place" in the SG-1 universe. Even marginally.
I don't see how Amanda is the wounded party here, either.
She's got a contract, she's chosen not to sign it as yet but to work her fans into a righteous lather on her behalf, instead, and now has them demanding nothing short of top-dog status for her on the 'Stargate' front while she considers other offers.
The "innocent lamb" is playing the game.
Or...she really doesn't know...and told her audience what was going on because she was about to spend 2 days with them and knew the question would come up about Season 10. She told it to them straight.
Now I've never had the pleasure of meeting her, but from those who have, the same thing comes up over and over: that she's a straight shooter with an insanely funny sense of humor and that she's gracious to a fault. So if you want to find her to be devious and manipulative, feel free to do so...but it contradicts everything I've ever heard said about her from fans and co-workers alike.
And if by "righteous lather" you mean us not wanting her to be set on the shelf in favor of new cast members, then I'm guilty as charged.
Mary Beth
Joe Mallozzi wrote:
"Nope. The fact is, SG-1 was disbanded. Mitchell came in as the new team leader because there was no leader - much less SG-1. At the time Carter rejoined, Mitchell was in charge. Furthermore, if off-world experience is the only qualification for leading a team, then the individual members of SG-1 (Carter, Teal'c, Daniel, and O'Neill) should have been leading their own teams long ago."
OOh, good one, Joe. I buy all of that. Every single word. By the by, do you happen to have any bridges in the NY area for sale too?
Um...touche? I guess.
I am mad as mad can be! I am fan, therefore I have a sense of entitlement. I demand that Teal'c/CJ to be the center of a inter-fandom war. I mean, c'mon! Daniel ranters had their moment in seasons 5 and 6. Then, the Jonas ranters. Jack ranters had their say early in season nine with Oneill's departure. Now, Carter ranters have the Carter/Mitchell command issue AND this latest news coming out of GABIT? Nevermind the fact that the S/J shippers have been battling with the J/D slashers for years. This is so unfair!!! Where is Teal'c in all this!?!?
After all, Teal'c is the heart and soul of SG-1.
*runs off to start an online petition*
Yeah, Teal'c never has been controversial enough for my book. He's always been too much of a man of action. Hey! Maybe that's what will cause some Teal'c strife. Maybe, that sly dog got a little "action" on the side and is the father of Vala's kidlet.
Joe, are you thinking what I'm thinking?
{{{She's got a contract, she's chosen not to sign it as yet but to work her fans into a righteous lather on her behalf}}}
Nah. We did the riteous lathery thing all on our own. The frothing at the mouth, the snorting and gasping. We're internet fans. It's in our nature to work ourselves all up. And, you know, to be all riteous and lathery... ;)
Joe Mallozzi said:
"Nope. The fact is, SG-1 was disbanded. Mitchell came in as the new team leader because there was no leader - much less SG-1. At the time Carter rejoined, Mitchell was in charge. Furthermore, if off-world experience is the only qualification for leading a team, then the individual members of SG-1 (Carter, Teal'c, Daniel, and O'Neill) should have been leading their own teams long ago."
EXACTLY the POINT many fans have ben making and the opportunity to give Carter her own command was there - everyone from TOTB to the fans, everyone, KNEW she was coming back. TPTB proved by the way they chose to write the first 5 1/2 episodes of S9 that for the first 5 1/2 eps of S9 there did not have to be any leader of SG1 because there WAS no SG1 - not until Carter agreed to come back - ergo no leader was necessary and Carter should have been made the leader of the team she had already been 2IC of for 7 years and leader of for 1 year since, as you say, "the individual members of SG-1 (Carter, Teal'c, Daniel, and O'Neill) should have been leading their own teams long ago".
Bink
Who said anything about devious and manipulative?
Shrewd is a bit more like it.
She can be as gracious and funny and delightful as my dear old grandmother and every bit as much of a tiget when it comes to taking care of business.
She isn't looking at the unemployment line, she's looking for the best offer; it's what people in her line of work do.
If you want to see her as some kind of naive waif, feel free, but the business is what it is, and she's getting by in it.
Teal'c ranter said...
I am mad as mad can be! I am fan, therefore I have a sense of entitlement
On-line fan...on-line fan. Only on-line fans have a sense of entitlement. The vast majority of the viewing audience who isn't on line..well...since they don't post their opinions ad nauseum and demand certain things...they just don't matter.
Oh, I understand the nature of internet fans. I am one, after all. I consider my days incomplete if I don't froth at the mouth at least once.
But I draw the line at snorting.
Ahhh politics and showbiz. No wonder the West Wing ROCKS! Oh wait, wrong show. Sorry. Maybe we should can SG-1 and do a show ... about doing a show! Hm. I'm sensing potential here.
Joe said:
"Um...touche? I guess."
Eh, it's as good as your other answers. And more plausible too.
Oooh I'm sure she's not naive...she's been in the business too long.
And what came out of this weekend? Even if our fears are "much ado about nothing" (which I still hope they are)?
I saw people all across fandom from diehard Carter fans to those who just loved the show and recognized her importance but not Carter fans per se come out in droves and say that they reject the idea of diminishing Carter for the sake of new characters...and that they support her continued involvement in SG-1 as an integral entity.
I saw love and support for her from all over the place (and from places I never would have suspected). So if the fears are for naught, at least it's clear that both Amanda and Carter are acknowledged/liked/loved/adored by a great many people.
And there's nothing negative about that.
Mary Beth
WAIT A SECOND! Stop the presses! Joe said even HE hasn't received his 10th season contract yet. We don't even know if he'll be involved with the show next year. Gah! What are we doing banging down his door?!?!?! Lets go find someone who matters........
[cue the tumbleweed]
.
Don't leave Stargate as well Joe!!!! :D
I've also seen people come out in droves to say they'd be happy to see less of Carter on SG-1, and are scared to death of seeing her swoop in on 'Atlantis' and they hear Whistler's really nice this time of year.
She has her supporters, she has her detractors, and she's got them all whipped up.
Now we just need to know who the hell Shanks was talking to in L.A. today and we'll really have a party.
Or a food fight.
hey,
dude i don't really care about what you guts do with the next season just as long as there is another season of both sg-1 and atlantis and there is alot of action and the good guys win it's all good!
Oh yeah, she has her detractors. All 15 of them over at Our Stargate. "Our Stargate", where every thread is about Sam Carter.
I will give them this, though, they do get around. Conventions, bulletin boards, forums, lists.....in fact, I bet a couple of them are outside of Michael Shanks' house right now.
Rabid Latherer
(these online factions really are too easy)
Since Joe and Paul ARE writers and writing is what they do for a living, it's reasonable to assume they could come up with good storylines for Carter if they wanted to.
Aw, I don't know about that. Considering how they wrote Jack's departure (or chose not to write it), considering that they have 2 Colonels on an SG-1 team, then have to tell on-line fans that they decided to have Carter and Mitchell co-lead, I'm seriously doubting whether they can come up with good storylines. Maybe we all have a limited amount of talent and when it runs dry, that's it.
In fact, it just might be better if all we saw on Stargate was a bunch of characters standing around, saying nothing and then Joe could just tell use his blog to tell us what happened. Sort of like a virtual Stargate.
"Personally, though, I still think the move is a bad, bad idea. There may be oodles and gobs of possibilities inherent in this plan, but that still doesn't mean it's going to work. It doesn't mean it's the right move."
I really can't concur with this enough. I think Amanda Tapping is a terrific character, and Sam Carter's been my favorite character on SG-1 since the very first episode I saw, but the idea of her doing more than a handful of episodes on Atlantis makes me cringe. Whatever she would do there, she'd be usurping someone, because she's better at what she does than McKay is and she outranks Sheppard. While this might make for a good story or two, I really think that in the long run, it'll just cause too many continuity problems that can't just be waved away, especially when Atlantis has already had whole episodes devoted to whether or not McKay and Sheppard really can handle their jobs. Are we just going to ignore what's been established because Carter comes in for half a season?
I think there are good possibilities in any of the SG-1 characters visiting Atlantis occasionally. I really do. I, for one, would be terribly amused by Ronon and Teal'c meeting. Sam and Elizabeth had an interesting antagonism which would be nice to see again. Daniel would have a field day in the city. Mitchell and Sheppard would probably have a good time swapping pilot stories. But bringing any one of them in on a semi-permanent basis would overshadow the Atlantis cast, which is still finding its footing in many ways. After all, we hardly know anything about how these characters got to where they are today. Could we possibly get some more development of Weir and Teyla before we bring in a third woman doing a man's job? Can we see more of the diversity of Atlantis before people start talking about bringing in characters whom we've already known for almost a decade?
I know perceptions change vastly from creator to audience, but as an audience member, I just don't think Atlantis is sufficiently established on its own to support the kind of merger that's been suggested. In the time since this news hit the internet, I've seen a handful of people who thought this was a good idea. Conversely, people who have never before agreed on anything have been expressing very similar negative opinions of the idea. And it's not out of disrespect for Amanda Tapping - far from it. It's been out of concern for a show that still needs to set itself up as its own entity, rather than just another cookie-cutter product.
"In fact, it just might be better if all we saw on Stargate was a bunch of characters standing around, saying nothing and then Joe could just tell use his blog to tell us what happened. Sort of like a virtual Stargate."
Or you could simply imagine your ideal show in your head. That'd be cool too.
"I think Amanda Tapping is a terrific character,"
And apparently I needed to edit less and proofread more. Obviously, I meant that Amanda Tapping is a terrific actress, not a character.
::headdesk::
Oh no, not the dreaded "minority" blankie!
Whatever helps you sleep at night.
Oh yeah, she has her detractors. All 15 of them over at Our Stargate. "Our Stargate", where every thread is about Sam Carter.
It used to be that OS was the Daniel-centric forum. However, in the past year, they seem to have more threads about how they hate Carter, hate S/J ship. They seem to spend more time talking about their hatred for one of the characters rather than their love for Daniel. Carter must really be threatening.
Also...I've noticed that many of the same people who post on OS in the anti-Sam/love Vala/Daniel threads also now post on the Sony forum -- post to each other saying the same things over and over to the same people. Apparently for them, there aren't enough venues for them to opine about their hatred.
And you're right; it's about the same 30 people over and over again.
"Or you could simply imagine your ideal show in your head. That'd be cool too."
Come on Joe, you sly dog, you know that we've all already done that.
BTW, I hope you're enjoying this as much as we are.
You and I both hope the writers of "Lost" are not just making it all up as they go along.
As for Alias... I previously heard an interview that the writers of Alias would have loved to have more Lena Olin but she was not available. Alas, her "presence" was kept in the show a la "Jack O'Neill" fashion (through email and computer correspondence with Jack -Bristow that is).
Don't despair, she returns during season 4. Just when and where, you'll have to watch for yourself and find out! ;-)
"In fact, it just might be better if all we saw on Stargate was a bunch of characters standing around, saying nothing and then Joe could just tell use his blog to tell us what happened. Sort of like a virtual Stargate."
Or you could simply imagine your ideal show in your head. That'd be cool too.
Rofl. Does that mean my vision of Chipmunks travelling through the gate to battle the evil racoons can actually come true?? :D
PS, oh and there'd be Ninjas. And Wizards. Possibly Ninja Wizards.
"Or you could simply imagine your ideal show in your head. That'd be cool too."
Um...Touche? I guess.
Joe...quick question...(I know that's almost an oxymoron coming from me, but I digress)...
But what about you and Paul? When will you get word about your involvement next year and what exactly is in question, so far as you can safely divulge? Because I love most of your stuff (except Ties that Bind...sorry)...
"PS, oh and there'd be Ninjas. And Wizards. Possibly Ninja Wizards."
Didn't you catch Anubis' Jaffa? They've already played the "Ninjas are cool" card. I'm pretty sure Dumbledore popped up along the way recently as well. Throw in that gene splicing machine and you're all set.
**Or you could simply imagine your ideal show in your head. That'd be cool too.**
Nada. The hunk/hunkess factor is important to many people. Daniel naked, Daniel's butt, Teal'c and his big arms in those sleeveless t-shirts, Vala and her boobage, Ben and his...I don't know...the thunkers need to actually see this on-screen; imagining it just doesn't do it justice. Ya see, you really don't need to do any writing at all if you got the thunky, hunky stuff going on.
God, I miss Thor.
PS, oh and there'd be Ninjas. And Wizards. Possibly Ninja Wizards.
.....with pie. Ninja Wizards with PIE. ;-)
How could I forget the PIE!!! :O
"PS, oh and there'd be Ninjas. And Wizards. Possibly Ninja Wizards."
Check out Atlantis' The Long Goodbye for some sweet Ninja action from Torri! And I'm pretty sure Mitchell was krantuing it up already this year on SG-1.
If it were anywhere close to a known, proven, universal truth that Carter is the most wonderful character in the universe, we wouldn't be having this conversation.
Because this situation wouldn't exist.
We aren't here because TPTB are willingly trying undermine the future of the franchise by maliciously screwing around with their "gold standard" character, just for kicks.
We're here because they're doing what they have good reason to believe is for the best.
And I seriously doubt they're taking their cues from "Our Stargate."
OMG Torri does the Ninja action???!!!!
Whoooo :D
Joe Mallozzi wrote:
//Nope. The fact is, SG-1 was disbanded. Mitchell came in as the new team leader because there was no leader - much less SG-1. At the time Carter rejoined, Mitchell was in charge. //
well, it still would have been nice to see a scene where sam was at least offered her spot back (mitchell didn't mind the idea *via avalon 1 and 2*). even if she didn't want it (or you guys didn't want her to have it), at least showing a moment where it was addressed would have been nice. and might have helped tremendously in slipping into the new guard.
i hope you return in season 10, joe. no more losses.
sally :)
Wow, an actual producer online and sniping with fans. Cue the Jaws music.
I'd hate to see the blog comments turn into an "us vs. them" complete with mudslinging. People have their own reasons for liking Stargate but we should keep in mind that us at GW and the people at OS are all fans of Stargate. So what if OS is more Daniel-centric. Daniel is a great character. Sam is my favorite character but I don't think that everybody should feel the same as me. I'm not happy with the seeming directing that I'm seeing the Sam character going but they went through much worse in season 6 (which is a whole 'nother kettle of fish).
My point with the rumors about AT is that it very much feels to me that TPTB at the studio feel that Amanda has run her course and they want to bring in fresh blood. It feels to me almost as if they don't know what to do with her now that Jack's gone, which is sad because she's a tremendous character in her own right without the ship storyline. Of course this is just MY opinion.
Shipperahoy
Ya see, you really don't need to do any writing at all if you got the thunky, hunky stuff going on.
Bingo. So that's why Vala is going to be a regular in S10 and Sam is to be shoved to the back!!! No more having to write the long, scientific, techno-babble speeches, no more research to make sure what Carter says is even remotely accurate. Brain fry. Now they can just have Vala utter more of those memorably profound and well-researched lines such as "Let's Make Babies" and the assorted references to penises and sex. Makes sense now.
Yup, old Joe is but mad north-north-west: when the wind is southerly he does know a hawk from a handsaw.
Ah, Joe....
Lauren
I for one am outraged at the bitterness expressed by some fans who seem to think they know more about the show than anyone else. The moment you guys start arguing about what you thinks best for the show the more you fracture fandom. We've had a good 7 or 8 years of the most solid fan culture in Sci-Fi (maybe the TV and movie world too) and now you're arguing like a pack of children. The lack of trust in the TPTB who bring us this show every week is disgusting.
Seems a lot of female fans are rooting for Sam to stay firmly entrenched in SG-1 when I think she would be an asset to Atlantis. Either way, some Sam is better than no Sam. This is about ensuring the longevity of the franchise prevails, using resources in the best way possible, and if Claudia and Ben will attract new fans to the franchise, then why not I say!!
Some ppl are enveloped in their own dream world of Stargate when in fact the REAL issue is making sure all our favourite characters stick with the franchise in some kind of decent capacity.
Where's the camaraderie fans?
Sergeant Mick
(in Australia)
"Where's the camaraderie fans?"
Camaraderie? In Stargate fandom?
Well, as nice as that sounds, Joe, someone is going to bitch about minimalizing Carter, somehow. This is internet, it's what we do. I would like to see Carter getting some character development, I've always felt she's the one I've seen changed/grow the least over the last 8 1/2 years, so snaps for thinking outside the box on that one.
As for the whole Fargate thing, again, people are going to bitch, screw 'em and give us some great episodes with aome truly great actors.
And Lena doesn't come back until the penultimate ep of S4, however, there is a really great episode, 7, I think where Vaughn and Syd re-tread a truly inspired X-files episode. Gold in the dross.
Joe, buddy, I get it. It's art. But not in the Sistine Ceiling or Bernini's David kind of art. It's not even art in the American Gothic sort of way. Nope, this is Duchamp's Fountain. And it's beautiful.
Sergeant Mick said:
"This is about ensuring the longevity of the franchise prevails, using resources in the best way possible, and if Claudia and Ben will attract new fans to the franchise, then why not I say!!"
No, Mick, this is not about keeping Stargate on the air for as long as possible at all costs. That's just stupid. All stories have their natural beginning, middle, and end. Authors tend to recognize this. Producers apparently don't. And neither do some fans.
Thank you, Shipperahoy.
Dani347