24.February.2001
Hi
everybody,
I just wanted to quickly comment on the latest news
concerning Bryan Singer and Tom DeSanto. First of all
I'm elated that two such talented and passionate artists
have decided to bring this beloved show back to the
world. What a wonderful surprise that someone of their
stature in the industry seems to understand what all
of you fans out in the world have always understood
and have been screaming at the studios for years. Battlestar
Galactica is truly a sleeping giant and I'm sure
under their guidance--and with your support--will finally
achieve the level of success that such a wonderful story
deserves.
I just read an article from Tom DeSanto at http://www.fandom.com.
I was very pleased to find out that Tom and Bryan have
a genuine love for the show and that they care about
the fans and preserving the integrity of the show. I
have no idea what they have in mind, but I feel that
we should all support them in their quest and give them
time to develop their own unique vision. If my team
had been given the chance to produce Battlestar Galactica
I would have asked for the same courtesy. No one knows
more than me that they're many ways to bring back Battlestar
Galactica and that their are many talented and gifted
individuals with a wonderful vision for Battlestar
Galactica. My group came together because no one
seemed to understand this shows potential, or vast and
diverse fan base.
We also wanted to remind the industry that Battlestar
Galactica was not only a success in the beginning,
but under the right conditions and leadership, could
become one of the most entertaining, moving and successful
franchises in Universal's history. Additionally, we
wanted to lay out a vision for the show that would honor
the original characters and premise of the show, and
at the same time, build a bridge to the future with
a whole new generation born in space. Our trailer took
all of this into account and the response was overwhelmingly
positive. However Tom and Bryan are entitled to their
vision for the show. I have always respected any creators'
right to explore their own, unique ideas.
I believe that the fans' job is to share opinions
and give honest feedback. Hopefully the new producers
will be open to listening and taking them all into account.
My position is to give Tom and Bryan the respect they
are due--and to share insights and opinions only if
asked. No one likes to be second-guessed. I'm sure they
will have to contend with more than their share of creative
challenges and adversarial opinions.
Just a few last words before I go. These past few
years have taught me that anything is possible if you
are willing to jump into the fire and commit yourself
to what you believe. It also taught me to appreciate
and respect not only the fans who keep the flame alive,
but the producers, directors, writers and craftsmen
that have the courage to bring their creative vision
to fruition. It takes guts to keep going when no one
believes in what you are doing.
I also want to thank the fans for supporting our team's
efforts these past several years. The new Battlestar
Galactica trailer that we put together with the
love and support of many fans and industry professions
was a miracle in the making. The standing ovations around
the world for our efforts have more than justified the
tremendous effort that went into developing and completing
our trailer. I will always support Battlestar Galactica
and BattlestarGalactica.com
will always reflect the fans' opinions and creative
ideas. Remember, Battlestar Galactica belongs
to you--and your belief and passion for this show have
kept it alive these past 20+ years. You have also made
it possible for this show to finally come back. Don't
forget that! I take my hat off to all of you.
By the way, the third book of my Battlestar Galactica
trilogy is finally being completed and will be out shortly.
I'm also looking forward to seeing all of you again
this year as I will be traveling all over the world,
promoting the book, playing a new and updated Battlestar
Galactica trailer, plus showing you the new Great
War of Magellan trailer/project that my team
has been working on for the last 14 months.
Once again, congratulations to Tom DeSanto and Bryan
Singer and also to Glen Larson. I'm sure that he must
be excited to have their creative talents bringing his
show back to life. I know Glen thinks that I have tried
to steal his show, but the truth is, I have always believed
in his story and have only wanted to honor and give
life to his original premise and wonderful characters.
All my love,
Richard Hatch