Richard Hatch, fan-favourite and original star of ‘Battlestar Galactica‘ has passed away at the age of 70…
It appears that 2017 us already giving 2016 a run for its money in its early death toll on well-known genre faces and talent.
Richard Hatch was known to those of us of an older generation as Captain Apollo in the original Battlestar Galactica of the 1980s. But he was a prolific tv and stage performer and over the years established a wide and appreciative fan-base. During the 1990s he campaigned for a reboot of Battlestar Galactica and even started a promotional production to keep it in the public-eye. Though the eventual reboot of the series under Ron Moore was not what he expected – and he was initially critical – he came to appreciate the show as being a different take on the story and actually came on board as Zarek, a very different and more antagonist character in the hit show. Though coming on to a production that was already established he quickly made many friends in the new cast, many of whom expressed their condolences on the news of his passing.
He’s been described as a gentleman and generous man, one who always had time for people at conventions and who was active in fan communities.
Ron Moore tweeted: Richard Hatch was a good man, a gracious man, and a consummate professional. His passing is a heavy blow to the entire BSG family. And co-stars such as Edward James Almos noted: Richard Hatch you made our universe a better place We love you for it. Rest In Peace my friend @SoSayWeAll the Admiral!
His son formally announced his passing with the following message:
February 7, 2017 — Paul Hatch, on behalf of the Hatch family and friends is sad to confirm the passing of his beloved father Richard Lawrence Hatch, who passed away in Los Angeles, California this afternoon.
He died peacefully with his family and friends at his side after a battle with pancreatic cancer.
Born May 21, 1945 in Santa Monica, Richard was an actor, writer, and producer best known for his role as Captain Apollo in the original Battlestar Galactica television series, and also as Tom Zarek in the 2003 remake of Battlestar Galactica.
After beginning his career in Off Broadway theatre, in 1970 he joined the cast of All My Children and then went on to become a fixture as a guest star on numerous hit TV series and movie for television, eventually replacing Michael Douglas as Karl Malden’s partner in the Streets of San Francisco.
In 1978 his starring role in Battlestar Galactica brought him worldwide recognition as well as a Golden Globe nomination.
In spite of significant roles in other series and motion pictures over the following decades, his connection with the original Battlestar as well as the remake, created an international following among science fiction fans. While continuing his acting career Richard was a popular figure at Comic Book conventions, science fiction forums and even hosted his own cruise ship events.
Further information on memorial services and tributes can be found at RichardHatch.com
