In a not so veiled attempt at slapping the hand that has fed them for the last 10 years, the writers for “Stargate SG-1” decided to let upper management at the network know how they feel about the tacky way the show’s cancellation was handled.
When Stargate SG-1 cast and crew wrapped the 200th episode and were about to let Richard Dean Anderson cut the cake, the brass announced the show would be cancelled. No warning, no heads-up, just — after 10 years, this is it. To say the least, the 200th episode celebration got watered down just a tad.
If there is one thing you learn in Hollywood — don’t tick-off the writers. And, the adage proved true in this case. In a move of pure creative genius, the writers took it out on the brass in the way they do best — with the show’s script, letting the program’s characters speak for them and unleash their verbal assaults on their behalf.
In this past week’s episode (there are only two remaining til permanent sign-off), Vala’s father Jasec (portrayed perfectly by veteran funnyman Fred Willard) is having a conversation with Sam (Amanda Tapping). It went something like this — no explanation is needed:
Jasec: “It’s no wonder. I don’t mind telling you, I’m a bit disappointed in this facility. I was expecting more.”
Carter: “Well, at times, so do we. But the truth is, the Stargate program just doesn’t get the support it used to from the people in charge.”
Jasec: “Why not?”
Carter: (gives a resigned shrug)
Jasec: “That’s too bad. Because after all your Stargate program has accomplished for this network of planets, I would think the decision makers would show it the respect it deserves.”
Carter: (with a twinkle in her eye) “Ay, yup.”
Kudos to you guys and gals on the writing staff for allowing our favorite SG-1 characters to express exactly the way all of us have been feeling since the cancellation was announced.
Kurt says
Based on the “Eureka!” comment when Jasec asks “Why not?” I suspect there may be a little bitterness on the part of the SG1 team. 😉
Capn Obvious says
If you’re going to quote the scene, don’t forget the punchline:
Jasec: “It’s no wonder. I don’t mind telling you, I’m a bit disappointed in this facility. I was expecting more.”
Carter: “Well, at times, so do we. But the truth is, the Stargate program just doesn’t get the support it used to from the people in charge.”
Jasec: “Why not?”
Carter: (gives a resigned shrug)
DR. LEE: EUREKA!
jeanette seldon says
if its not broke why throw it away, i have been watching this program for years, i did not just start watching, so since its over for what ever reason? i loved people saving the world over and over again there was always a somewhat happy ending i also loved the farscape crew on there, i thought it was wonderful and creative of you, i did buy the ark of truth and the continum, this is like going to the movie ,thats how good your show was,some of your affects were movie grade for big screen , the big screen had trouble becoming more creative than you, sorry you are gone i hope you have something big coming up soon ,so long, jeanette out.