The Stargate franchise, which began with the 1994 film directed by Roland Emmerich, introduced audiences to a captivating universe of interplanetary travel. The success of the film led to the creation of the television series Stargate SG-1, where Colonel Jack O'Neill was recast from Kurt Russell to Richard Dean Anderson. Russell, a prominent action star by the late 1990s, chose not to return due to the demanding schedule of a weekly television show, which would have conflicted with his flourishing film career. In contrast, Anderson's portrayal of O'Neill brought a more relaxed and humorous tone to the character, allowing for a deeper exploration of interpersonal dynamics within the show's ensemble cast. This shift was crucial for the long-term success of the series, as Anderson's version of O'Neill was able to deliver witty lines while navigating cosmic challenges. The franchise is currently experiencing a revival with a new series in development at Prime Video, promising to expand its beloved universe further.