Robert Carlyle Joins ‘Stargate: Universe’

The Stargate franchise has itself a new leading man.

It was announced today that Scottish actor Robert Carlyle will be cast in the lead role of Dr. David Rush in the upcoming new Sci-Fi Channel series: Stargate: Universe. (SGU)

Even though the studio is looking to make SGU a younger and edgier show in tone than the previous renditions of the franchise, Carlyle will bring the depth and complexity only he can to the show, which is what the creators wanted in their lead character.

If he looks a bit familiar, Carlyle recently appeared on television opposite Keifer Sutherland in 24: Redemption and he has a slew of credits behind him ranging From the British television series Cracker to such movies as 28 Weeks Later. His most recognizable roles stem from his playing Francis Begbie in Trainspotting and as the stripper Gaz in The Full Monty.

Stargate: Universe Outline:
SGU follows a group comprised of soldiers, scientists and civilians who find they must fend for themselves as they are forced through a Stargate when their hidden base comes under attack. The desperate survivors emerge aboard an ancient ship missing in the far reaches of space. As they fight to survive, Dr. Rush (Carlyle) works to unlock the mysteries of the ship and return the group home, but evidence of ulterior motives on his part soon arises.

Brad Wright and Robert Cooper, who have been with the franchise as co-creators of Stargate SG-1 and Stargate Atlantis will serve as executive producers and writers on the new show.

Debut Time Frame:
Production is slated to begin in Vancouver in February 2009 with the hopes of a summer 2009 premiere slot with a two-hour movie event on SCI FI and will be distributed by MGM Worldwide Television Distribution.

Inventive image manipulation: Bruce Simmons