Yesterday, fans of Battlestar Galactica were saddened to learn that Richard Hatch has passed away after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 71 years old, and his career as an actor spanned nearly 50 years. In the 2004 Battlestar Galactica reboot series, Hatch played the treacherous revolutionary-turned-equally treacherous politician Tom Zarek. But in our hearts, Hatch will always be Captain Apollo from the original Battlestar Galactica.
To honor Hatch’s life and legacy, we’ve put together a video tribute of his biggest roles and milestones. It’s easy to forget that Hatch took it upon himself to help keep Battlestar Galactica alive, to the point of actually writing, directing, and starring in a short film designed to lead to a sequel series. Hatch also wrote seven Battlestar Galactica novels, and he was extremely gracious to the cast and crew of the new series, before later taking on a recurring role as Zarek. Hatch was also a veteran of the convention circuit, and a popular guest at sci-fi and comic cons. He will be greatly missed by all of us here at Team Nerdist.
Battlestar Galactica executive producer Ronald D. Moore and series star Edward James Olmos were quick to share their own tributes to Hatch on a personal level.
Richard Hatch was a good man, a gracious man, and a consummate professional. His passing is a heavy blow to the entire BSG family.
— Ronald D. Moore (@RonDMoore) February 7, 2017
.Richard Hatch you made our universe a better place We love you for it. Rest In Peace my friend @SoSayWeAll the Admiral!
— Edward James Olmos (@edwardjolmos) February 7, 2017
Share your favorite Richard Hatch memories with us in the comment section below. He will not be forgotten. So say we all.
Image: Universal Cable Productions/Syfy
