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SCI FI OPENS THE 'GATES' TO MORE ADVENTURES

Channel Renews both Stargate SG-1 and Stargate Atlantis

SG-1 Ties for Longest-Running Sci-Fi Drama


In response to overwhelming viewer demand, SCI FI Channel has ordered new seasons of its highest-rated and most successful original series, Stargate Atlantis and Stargate SG-1, from MGM Television Entertainment. Production on both 20-episode seasons is set to begin in March 2005 for summer premieres on SCI FI.

Stargate Atlantis exploded onto the scene in July 2004, delivering over 4.2 million viewers and shattering every previous ratings record for a SCI FI series. Reprising their roles for season two will be Joe Flanigan, Torri Higginson, David Hewlett, Rainbow Sun Francks, Rachel Luttrell and Paul McGillion.

As Stargate SG-1 returns for an astounding ninth original season, it ties The X-Files as the longest-running sci-fi drama series on American television. MGM is currently in negotiations with the original cast for their return.

Robert C. Cooper and SG-1 co-creator Brad Wright will continue to serve as executive producers on both series, which are distributed by MGM Worldwide Television Distribution.

New episodes of SG-1 and Atlantis return in January 2005 along with the series premiere of Battlestar Galactica, making SCI FI Friday the most powerful night of sci-fi on television.

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