SCI FI announces summer line-up

SCI FI Channel today officially announced its summer line-up, including the fifth season premiere of Stargate Atlantis.

The show premieres Friday, July 11 in its regular 10 p.m. (Eastern and Pacific) time slot. Here is how the network describes the new season, including the addition of new regular cast members Robert Picardo (“Richard Woolsey”) and Jewel Staite (“Jennifer Keller”):

As Stargate Atlantis moves into its fifth action-packed season, the team of intrepid explorers continue to face peril and uncertainty from within the vast reaches of the Pegasus Galaxy.

The series promises to keep things exciting by introducing a powerful new race, welcoming new cast members and forging new alliances, all while delving deeper into the mysteries of the Pegasus Galaxy. The new 20-episode season will include the series’ benchmark 100th episode.

Robert Picardo, known to fans as the International Oversight Committee rep Richard Woolsey, joins the Atlantis cast and assumes command of the Atlantis expedition. Reluctant to step into Colonel Samantha Carter’s shoes, Woolsey must deal with new responsibilities and find his way among the crew. The team, led by Lt. Colonel Sheppard (Joe Flanigan), Dr. Rodney McKay (David Hewlett), Teyla (Rachel Luttrell), Ronon (Jason Momoa) and Dr. Jennifer Keller (Jewel Staite), must adjust to his unique leadership style.

Fan favorite Paul McGillion, returns for five episodes to reprise his role as the beloved “Dr. Carson Beckett.” Amanda Tapping (“Colonel Samantha Carter”), and Stargate SG-1 star Michael Shanks (“Dr. Daniel Jackson”) will also appear as special guest stars this season.

Other original series airing this summer on SCI FI include the third season of Eureka (premieres July 29 at 9 p.m.), plus new episodes of reality series Ghost Hunters International (July 9 at 9 p.m.) and the return of Scare Tactics (this time hosted by comedian Tracy Morgan — July 9 at 10 p.m.).

Learn more about Season Five of Stargate Atlantis in GateWorld’s growing episode guide!

(Thanks to Morjana for the tip)