Stargate SG-1 co-star Amanda Tapping will return to the Stargate franchise next season, the actress confirmed in a message posted at her official Web site. Tapping, who has played Air Force officer Samantha Carter for nine years on the hit show, hoped to put to rest rumors surrounding her future with the series following last weekend’s GABIT convention appearance (story).

“I have every intention of returning to Stargate next year,” Tapping said. “No, my contract has not been signed, but I fully expect that it will be soon. Yes, I have been offered the possibility of working on both SG-1 and Atlantis. To what extent still remains to be seen, but I will be doing a total of 20 shows or a full season. Am I happy about it? You betcha!”

Tapping further stated that she only plans to sign on for the new series she has been offered if its filming schedule does not conflict with Stargate.

“Stargate is a wonderful series to work on and I have every intention of staying with it,” she said. “I hope that this clears up any erroneous speculation.”

Principal photography on Stargate SG-1‘s record-setting tenth season is expected to commense in early March.

(Thanks to Dani76 and Karen for the tip)