Dr. Carson Beckett Returns to Stargate: Atlantis

• Aug 8, 2007 10:12 PM ET
• by TV Guide News

Sci Fi bowed to fan wishes and is reviving Paul McGillion's beloved Dr. Carson Beckett for a two-episode arc when Stargate: Atlantis returns in September. "His return to Atlantis promises to be every bit as shocking" as his death, the network announced today in a release.

Fans were indeed shocked (and incensed) when the producers killed the Scottish doc in an explosion at the end of Season 3. In true cult-show fashion, they started a Save Carson campaign that included a press kit, an interactive DVD and a rally complete with bagpipes at the show's Vancouver studios. The campaigners also showed up at Comic-Con with 700 Save Carson flags and yes, another piper. "We're absolutely going to keep up our campaign," says resolute campaign spokesperson Jennifer Kirk. "We're very happy that NBC, Sci Fi and the writers listened to us, but we're going to fight for a full return in Season 5."

Is there a chance? According to Kirk, the show-runner, Joe Mallozzi, told them Beckett "would be real flesh and blood and doors would remain open" for his further return. "We urge them to use that door." - Reporting by Ileane Rudolph