Ask Martin Gero - Spoilers for SGA (S1, S2)

[AlphaBlu]

Martin,

It's great that you're here. Good to have someone from Atlantis here to answer our endless questions. Your Pod-Cast for Siege I & II was very funny as well.

Any chance of finding out about the line/scene that was cut that you never finished telling because the adds during the Pod-Cast got in the way?

Also, and I know you've been asked this a few times already but I think we're collectivly trying to impress apon you its importance, but is Sora ever going to come back? If not are they going to atleast mention that they traded her for the nukes?

Will Atlantis (and the Jumpers) be "re-armed" with more drones? That FX shot of the city firing all those drones kicked ass, so I'm hoping that isn't the only time we'll get to see it.

Finally, Kavanaugh. I think he's a great character, and Joe said something about TPTB liking him as well. Will he be returning to be a thorn in Weir's side this Season?

BYE

[Erik Bloodaxe]

Well, I'd like to add my thanks for taking the time to answer these questions, and hopefully these ones haven't been asked yet.

1.) There was a question awhile back about whether season 2 would touch some more on the background of the origin for the myth of Atlantis, but will we also learn more about what mythologies the Wraith may have inspired? There's probably a rich vein of material there that'd be fun to see.

2.) Regarding the advanced civilization that's discovered in the episode "Condemned", are they really on par w/ the Ancients, or are they actually a bit closer to the level of the Tollan?

3.) Quite awhile back there were hints that if the 9th chevron were used, the likelihood would be higher for it happening on Atlantis, so has there been any ideas thrown around about that, or is it still something kinda waiting for the right story to come along?

4.) So far we know there are gates in Pegasus, the MW and even the Asgard's galaxy, so will we get a chance this season to get a clearer picture of just how immense the Ancients' civilization was (at their peak)?

5.) Final question (for now): what are the odds of the team unintentionally running across that "dark ascended entity" again, and if they did might it also be possible for it (although unknown in the previous encounter) to have enough of a personality to be quite a foe to be reckoned w/?

Thanks again for your time, and I'll have to try thinking up some even better questions for sometime later.

-Bloodaxe

[TJuk]

I'm back again, sorry the reply to my last questions just wet my appetite to ask more! I'll try not to write an essay though. Looks like you've been very busy answering all our questions and I'd just like to say once again a big thank you for taking the time out of your no doubt packed work schedule!

Ok onto the questions...

1) In the pilot we saw the main character's various connections back home, & in 'Letters...' learnt a little more about them. Now that a link has been re-established between the SGC and Atlantis, will we be seeing them back home with family etc and more of that character backstory?

2) Are their any dark secrets lurking in the characters backgrounds? Paul McGillion mentioned Beckett had a 'trunk full of secrets' in an online interview and while I'm sure that was part teasing, its perked my curiosity.

3) 'Runner' looks like its going to be a cracking episode, and I'm really excited about meeting Ronon Dex for the first time (just to see him stand next to and dwarf the rest of the cast is going to be hilarious! Have they been issued apple crates yet? ), is there anything else you can tell us about this episode and the new character, and yes you guessed it (what can I say he's my favourite character!), Beckett's role in this ep?

4) You wrote the mid-season 2 parter, which has to be one of the best and most intense episodes from S1, it had me chewing the furniture in anticipation (how I detest those three little words...'To Be Continued' but the cliffhanger for those eps was just plain EVIL!). Occassionally it seemed like there were missing scenes (i.e. you dont see Beckett after he gets clobbered even when a gun is pointed at him, until they drag the doc into the control room which just seemed...odd) can you tell us any of the scenes that were written/filmed but dropped and why?

5) Will we be seeing more of Altantis' existing mythology incorperated into episode plots & story arc (i.e. like the Plato quote from the pilot)?

6) Why the heck did they kill of poor Peter Grodin???? I mean if someone had to die why him!! Why not that ponytailed weasely bast...er...Kavanaugh or...well anyone but Peter (and Zelenka); kill off the Brit why dont'cha! Humpf!

Ok I'll be good and leave it there...

Hope you dont have too many blisters on your fingers answering all these questions!!

Best Wishes,

TJ

[Shep'sSocks]

Regarding my question about Botany Bay possibly being mentioned in Condemned:

Not sure where you got that from...I don't think it's in our episode.

Thank you for relieving my mind. It was via one of the spoiler lists.

Also, there are some Aussie's in there...if you look real hard.

Ah yes, we've seen the flag but we'd really like someone in a speaking role. Any chance of that?

[White Knight]

Martin,

...I'm sorry, but I can't help but think of Martin Lloyd from SG1, seasons 4 and 5. No offence or anything.

Back to the topic at hand. A friend of mine, who is both a Stargate Atlantis fan and a Halo/Halo 2 fan, commented to me recently that he found an alarming similarity between the storylines of the two, mainly with the Ancients and the Forerunners. (My friend wasn't nearly so punctual in his assessment, but I'm not going to repeat what he said word-for-word for fear of being kicked off the board and hurting your feelings)

So, my question to you is this; as a writer for Stargate Atlantis, what is your opinion on such a comment, and is there anything you'd like to say in response, or do on your behalf? 'Cause I'll beat the living tar out of him if you ask, honest...

Yours in resuscitation,
The White Knight

[knocknashee]

Dear Martin....

Here's a blatant question for you...how do "I" go about becomming a writer for Stargate? I know that begging will be involved...but...aside from that...?

ThomasCarter

I think Martin already answered that...

We never accept spec scripts from anyone…it’s just the way we have to work considering all the legal ramifications.

The only way you can get to be a writer on the show is if you have a writing agent. We let agents know when we’re looking for another staff writer or just some original episode idea’s (usually in January when we’re gearing up.) Your agent will submit a sample of your work, and if we like it, we’ll invite you to pitch some story ideas.

If you pitch an idea we like, you’re usually sent to write an outline and if you ace that, you get to write a draft. Now, if your draft is kick ass and we need another staff writer, you get hired.

That’s how I got here.

So, yes, I think it would be a waste of time for you to write a spec script and send it in. You’d just get a form letter back saying we don’t read unsolicited material. If your interested in becoming a professional writer, look into getting an agent…it’s very hard to get started without one.

[Gremalcon]

If your interested in becoming a professional writer, look into getting an agent…it’s very hard to get started without one.

Any recommendations?

[The Boz]

Hey Thanks for answering our questions Martin, I and a lot of others really appreciate getting answers so tanks!

Just one question, in the press release about Loius Gossert Jn, Beau Bridges and Mitch PIlligi joining startgate, it mentioned that Beau Bridges would be crossing over to atlantis for some episodes. My question is, have you and the writers come up with a storyline that will c General Hank Laundry come to atlantis.

Thanks for your time, I really appreciate it !

[Sindet]

Hi Martin! Thank you for coming by and answering questions, it's very kind of you! One of my favorite things about Atlantis is the care that is taken with characterization while telling exciting stories. Even in action-oriented episodes like "The Storm" and "The Eye" there are some lovely character moments.

I especially like that there are two strong female characters on this show--"The Gift" was one of my favorite eps. My question is, will we get to see more of a friendship develop between Teyla and Weir? And will they get to have an adventure of their own together, like Sheppard and McKay get to do?

[Kalliope]

Vala is like writer candy. You just can’t go wrong with that character.

I love your comment. Claudia Black is really brilliant actress and does miracles with her characters (Farscape) BTW, any chance to see Claudia in more than these 5 (?) first episodes?

[Purpleyin]

Hi Martin.

First up I want to thank you for coming here and answering questions, the answers have been very interesting to say the least and I love to hear all the tidbits of information on the new season. I have some questions myself, just a few for starters (and yes, I have been saving these up for quite a while. )

1. We are definitely doing a Genii episode this year…the cast will depend on actor availability, so I can’t say much more. There was a scene in “Siege: Part 2” where Sora was sent back to the Genii in exchange for their nukes…but it had to be cut for time.

1. Is the above a scene you filmed but didn't use, if so any chance we'll get to see it included on the DVD's?

2. You've mentioned already that Bates won't be in Season 2, do you think he might be well enough to return by Season 3? Just how likely are we to ever see him back on the show?

3.A Grodin question. Joe has already answered that it's unlikely but in theory possible we could see a return of Grodin. Would you personally like to see him come back in any way?

4. Also, rather moot now but is bugging me - please indulge a poor Grodin fan for a moment. We know Grodin had a doctorate but what exactly was his specialism and duty on Atlantis?

5. In 'The Eye' at the grounding station, what was McKay going to say to Weir if she hadn't stopped him?

6. Will we be seeing or hearing once more of Jeannie, McKay's sister, in season 2?

7. Do you have an plans for any Teyla-centred episodes like 'The Gift' in Season 1?

8.Just curious, considering how long he's been awake by Seige Part 2, do we get any McKay whumping in "Siege Part 3", like say him collapsing from exhaustion?

9. Any plans for more of Janus' experiments, or himself, to appear again?

10. The uniform question has already been asked but I'd also love to know what the deal is with the later half of season 1 change; why McKay gets short sleeved shirt which has a navy stripe down the side, a uniform feature only seen so far on Weir too - is there any particular significance to this change, like a change in status for McKay within the expedition?

11. Since darts don't appear to be that big, and not likely large enough to hold as many people as we've seen them beam up at once, I was wondering is the wraith technology behind the beaming and darts hacked Ancient transporter/stargate technology that dematerialises and stores people somehow?

12. There have been rumours about a certain embarassing lack of attire for Mckay, could you say anything more, or even confirm them? There's also uncertainty on where these rumours are for Runner or Duet, any chance you'd just say which episode it's for?

13. There's been alot of debate about ATA (especially with how the Wraith in the Defiant One managed to activate the PJ shield). What exactly is the ATA needed for operating, other than flying the puddlejumper and the defensive systems chair?

14. Will the Simon/Elizabeth relationship be resolved properly or will we see it explored further in Season 2?

15.In Letters From Pegasus Dr. Zelenka ends his message with "Take care of yourself, darling" spoken in Czech. Was this simply an addition by David Nykl or does that goodbye allude to a deeper backstory for the character that we may yet see?

16. Final question (for now), what's the name of Rodney's cat?

Um, yes, sorry for so many. I really do think about SGA far too much but then you can take that as a reflection of my interest in the show. I appreciate you taking your time to answer any of them and hope they're intelligent enough questions to occupy your time.

Regards,
Purpleyin

[thetron]

Heya Martin. Gateworld is should be very thankful you taken the time out to answer some of our annoying little fan questions. On an Unoffical forum

My question is why no Australian on SGA? I've seen a south africa flag
Is this some kind of Anti-Australian Conspiracy created by the highly secret NID project called "Operation Gag skippy".

We gave you Ugg boots and steve irwin (We don't want him). Atleast you can do is cast an aussie as silence extra. The one always gets interrupted by Mckay everytime he's about to speak

I'll like to volenteer for that role. I'm perfect for that role just pay for the flight over and back home

[John&Teylaalltheway]

Hello Martin
Here's my Q's if I may on Stargate Atlantis ?

1. Are we going to get the backstory on Sheppard ?
2. I'm really enjoying the Sheppard and Teyla connection and want to know if it going to continue developing as a strong Friendship and or possible romance ?
3. Will McKay and Sheppard work together more ?
4. Why bring on Runner ? Why not simply five Ford more to do ?
5. Are we going to find out more about Teyla ?


Thank you Martin for any info you can give


Pam

[Oma-1]

Dear Martin....

Here's a blatant question for you...how do "I" go about becomming a writer for Stargate? I know that begging will be involved...but...aside from that...?

ThomasCarter

Thought I'd help Martin answer this one

Martin Says (post 72) " The only way you can get to be a writer on the show is if you have a writing agent. We let agents know when we’re looking for another staff writer or just some original episode idea’s (usually in January when we’re gearing up.) Your agent will submit a sample of your work, and if we like it, we’ll invite you to pitch some story ideas.

If you pitch an idea we like, you’re usually sent to write an outline and if you ace that, you get to write a draft. Now, if your draft is kick ass and we need another staff writer, you get hired.

That’s how I got here."

[hollyshannensangel]

Firstly, may I say thank you Martin, for taking your time to answer all these SGA questions.

I have a question or two, *Laughs* I rarely have questions, as people tend to ask the best ones....

1) What changes are we going to see for Teyla? And whose idea was it to

Spoiler:

give Teyla wraith DNA?

The next question that I'm about to ask, has been bugging me...and hopefully the question won't get deleted...or you or the rest of the producers/writers of SGA will not get offended. Actually, it applies to the next 2/3 questions I’m about to ask.

2) As you may or may not be aware there are... numerous amounts of people who bash Teyla/Rachel, simply because of the reason Teyla was brought in and for a number of those people (who say negative comments about TE/RL) “The Gift” certainly was a huge turnaround, as they believe that “The Gift” was the episode where Teyla got to shine. Now my question is this.

You said that Joe and yourself (and possibly SGA/SG crew/cast members) from time to time read these threads, which leads me to ask the following question have you or anyone else for that matter read any of the negative stuff about Rachel/Teyla and as a result thought about creating an angry mob? Because you know I’ll only be happy to join and take lead.

3) I have to ask this question, because as a Teyla supporter/fan I am finding it so annoying that people believe Teyla to have been OOC in “Letters From Pegasus”

Spoiler:

the way in which she wanted to save her people/the people she knows and because John disagreed with her she snapped at him

. Now, personally, I don’t believe she was, if anything she was showing anther emotion, one which is rarely seen, when it comes to Teyla. Was Teyla written out of character in “LFP”?

4) There aren’t many Indian’s in SGA with the exception of Peter (Craig is Indian right? I know he’s born in South Africa, but he does have the Indian-ness and his surname does scream out Indian-ness)

Spoiler:

but unfortunately he died, why?! He was such a cutie

. As the show is supposed to have lots of different nationalities will there be any chance of seeing any Indians on SGA?

5) Will we see more interaction with Teyla and Elizabeth? Or even interaction between Teyla and Rodney? We've seen Teyla interact with John, Elizabeth and Carson, but never Rodney.

6) Do any of you guys ever read the SGA fanfiction? And if so what you all perfer to read? The ship or the slash ship fiction? And if you were to ship for someone who would it be and why?

Finally before I go, could you please let Rachel know that I think she's great...acting wise that is and that there's a thread dedicated for her and a thread for Teyla/Weir (Weyla) and she's free to leave a comment. And also if she (or any of the cast/crew for that matter) decide to come to the West.Midlands (some place in England) and fancy an Indian that she should give me a bell.


*Blushes* I was only planning to ask three questions lol.

Thank you for taking your time to read mine and everyone's else questions.

Mandeep