"Battlestar Galactica" is a gripping science fiction epic that unfolds in a universe where humanity faces extinction at the hands of a formidable enemy: the Cylons, a cybernetic race originally created by humans. The story begins with a devastating attack that obliterates the Twelve Colonies of Man, leading to one of the most harrowing exoduses in the galaxy. At the heart of this struggle is Commander Adama, portrayed by the legendary Lorne Greene, who stands as a beacon of hope and resilience for the beleaguered remnants of humanity. He commands the battlestar Galactica, a powerful warship that becomes the last bastion against the Cylon onslaught, as they strive to survive in a hostile universe.
Commander Adama is not alone on this arduous journey; he is joined by a diverse and dynamic crew, including the charming yet reckless Lt. Starbuck, played by Dirk Benedict. Starbuck embodies the spirit of adventure and defiance, often serving as comic relief amidst the dire circumstances faced by the fleet. The camaraderie and bonds formed among this ragtag group of survivors lend depth to the narrative, showcasing their individual struggles and triumphs as they navigate through space, constantly looking over their shoulders for the relentless Cylons. These characters, each with their unique backstories, create a rich tapestry that highlights the themes of survival, loyalty, and sacrifice.
As the Galactica and its fleet of human survivors journey through the cosmos, they are driven by a singular hope: finding the fabled planet known as Earth. This mythical realm represents a sanctuary, a place where they could begin anew and escape the shadows of their past. However, their quest is fraught with peril, and as they confront external threats from the Cylons, they also grapple with internal dilemmas and moral quandaries. "Battlestar Galactica" not only delivers thrilling science fiction action, but also poses profound questions about humanity's resilience and the nature of survival in an unforgiving universe.
Main Cast of Battlestar Galactica
Lorne Greene
Commander Adama
Lorne Greene delivered a commanding and fatherly performance as Commander Adama in the iconic science fiction television series "Battlestar Galactica." His portrayal of the character exuded a sense of gravitas and wisdom that anchored the show through its epic journey of survival and search for Earth. Greene's deep, authoritative voice and stern countenance lent a natural air of leadership to Adama, making him a figure of respect and admiration among both the crew and the audience. His ability to convey a compassionate, protective side, particularly in his interactions with his on-screen children, added a layer of depth and humanity to the character. Lorne Greene's Adama was not just a military leader but also a moral compass for the fleet, navigating the ethical dilemmas of a civilization on the brink of extinction with a steady hand. His performance was pivotal in setting the tone for the series, offering a blend of strength and vulnerability that resonated with viewers and helped to cement "Battlestar Galactica" as a seminal work in the annals of science fiction television.
Dirk Benedict
Lt. Starbuck
Dirk Benedict delivered a charismatic and memorable performance as Lieutenant Starbuck in the original 1978 television series "Battlestar Galactica." His portrayal of the confident, wisecracking, and lady-charming Viper pilot brought a relatable humanity to the science fiction epic. Benedict's Starbuck was a character of dualities, equally comfortable in the heat of battle as he was dealing with the show's more personal and emotional storylines. His performance was imbued with a sense of humor and a roguish charm that made Starbuck an instant fan favorite, often providing a lighter contrast to the more stoic characters in the series. Benedict's ability to balance the character's bravado with moments of vulnerability added depth to Starbuck, making him one of the most iconic characters in the "Battlestar Galactica" universe and cementing Benedict's place in the annals of science fiction television history.
Richard Hatch
Capt. Apollo
Richard Hatch's portrayal of Captain Apollo in the classic science fiction television series "Battlestar Galactica" stands as a defining performance that contributed significantly to the show's enduring popularity. As the stoic and valiant Viper pilot, Hatch brought a depth of emotion and a strong moral compass to the character, embodying the essence of a heroic warrior and a devoted son to the noble Commander Adama. His ability to convey Apollo's internal struggles and unwavering loyalty to his people, while navigating the complexities of interstellar conflict and leadership, resonated with audiences. Hatch's performance was marked by a compelling intensity and a nuanced sensitivity, which allowed viewers to connect with the character on a profound level. His dedication to the role and his natural charisma helped to solidify Captain Apollo's status as one of the most iconic characters in the "Battlestar Galactica" franchise, influencing subsequent iterations of the story and setting a high standard for heroism and integrity in the realm of science fiction television.
Herbert Jefferson Jr.
Lt. Boomer
Herbert Jefferson Jr.'s portrayal of Lt. Boomer in the original 1978 television series "Battlestar Galactica" was both groundbreaking and memorable. As one of the lead Viper pilots in the series, Jefferson brought a strong, charismatic presence to the role, imbuing Boomer with a sense of duty and a sharp intellect that made him a key asset to the cast of characters. His performance was marked by a natural ease in the face of the show's many action sequences, as well as a depth of emotion that shone through in Boomer's interactions with his fellow crew members. Jefferson's Boomer was not only a skilled warrior but also a figure of inspiration and integrity, embodying the spirit of hope and resilience that defined the series. His role was particularly significant at the time for its positive representation of an African-American character in a leading role within a major sci-fi television series, paving the way for greater diversity in the genre. Jefferson's nuanced performance contributed to Lt. Boomer's status as an iconic character in the "Battlestar Galactica" universe, one that resonated with audiences and left a lasting impact on the cultural landscape of science fiction television.
Terry Carter
Colonel Tigh
Terry Carter's portrayal of Colonel Tigh in the original "Battlestar Galactica" series is often remembered for its stoic gravitas and unwavering loyalty to the command structure of the Battlestar Galactica. As the second-in-command to Commander Adama, played by Lorne Greene, Carter brought a depth of experience and a steady hand to the role, embodying the essence of a seasoned military officer. His performance was marked by a gruff exterior and a no-nonsense approach to dealing with the complex challenges faced by the last remnants of humanity searching for Earth. Despite his character's initial skepticism of the young and brash pilot Starbuck, played by Dirk Benedict, Carter's Colonel Tigh displayed a nuanced understanding of the importance of mentorship and the need to foster the next generation of leaders. His terse dialogues and occasional flashes of vulnerability added layers to the character, making Colonel Tigh not just a supporting figure, but a key element in the show's exploration of duty, honor, and the human spirit in the face of extinction.
Maren Jensen
Lt. Athena
Noah Hathaway
Boxey
Tony Swartz
Flight Sargeant Jolly
John Colicos
Count Baltar
Laurette Spang
Cassiopeia
Crew of Battlestar Galactica
Full backstage crew list →