Ronald D. Moore didn’t want Battlestar Galactica to follow Star Trek in any way

Ronald D. Moore didn't want Battlestar Galactica to follow Star Trek in any way

As a dedicated fan who has journeyed through the vast cosmos of science fiction, I can wholeheartedly attest to Ronald D. Moore’s stellar contribution to the genre. From his formative years on Star Trek: The Next Generation, where he honed his skills under the watchful eyes of Gene Roddenberry and company, to his groundbreaking work on Battlestar Galactica, Moore has proven himself as a visionary storyteller.


In discussions about the legends from the Star Trek universe, particularly those who worked off-screen, Ronald D. Moore is one name that carries significant influence. During his tenure on Star Trek: The Next Generation, he played a crucial role in contributing to the show’s later triumphs. Although not solely responsible for the creative elements adored by fans, his contribution was substantial.

To such an extent that he would assist in similar projects for Star Trek: Deep Space Nine and the first two films from the Next Generation era (Generations and First Contact). His passion for Star Trek was unparalleled, and he embodied the franchise more than anyone else could. However, the yearning for a fresh endeavor eventually surfaced, and he found that opportunity.

Due to the Sci-Fi Channel (now SyFy), Moore had the opportunity to revitalize and expand the Battlestar Galactica franchise. A show that gained popularity in the late 1970s, it was ultimately canceled. However, a follow-up series titled Battlestar Galactica 1980 failed to live up to its predecessor’s legacy and was also discontinued.

Two decades subsequently, Moore was given the responsibility to continue the franchise narrative, ultimately concluding the tale. He initially tested his concept in a miniseries in 2003, which garnered such success that the network decided to air it as a full series in 2004. Throughout its four-season run with the show, they delivered captivating stories and launched the careers of its cast members. It was truly outstanding.

The series was so well-done that numerous Star Trek enthusiasts tuned in just to see what Moore could accomplish with the intellectual property of the cult favorite. To their delight, he managed quite a bit. People were astounded by how Moore managed the task. He updated a cherished classic and broadened the narrative. Although not everyone was fully satisfied with the ending, it was a beautifully executed show that remains fondly remembered to this day.

Despite the apparent similarity, there was a deliberate effort made by Moore to distinguish Battlestar Galactica from Star Trek. Moore, who had honed his skills on Star Trek, aimed to create a distinct and unique experience for Battlestar Galactica.

In an interview with Wired through ScreenRant in 2010, Moore expressed that while working on Battlestar Galactica, he often chose a path divergent from that of Star Trek.

I’d done so much Trek, and I really wanted to have a general rule that if Trek went right, we were going to go left.

The reason the show remains relevant 20 years after its debut is because its creator aimed to distance it from typical Star Trek fan expectations, giving it a unique identity instead. Although the ending may have been lackluster, the franchise’s distinctiveness has endured, which is why it continues to be cherished so deeply today. Moore demonstrated that you can have separate phases in your career and neither needs to rely on the other for success – a lesson that many might still not fully grasp.

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2024-10-17 03:23

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