Stargate SG-1 Memories: Lost City I and II

As we headed toward the conclusion of SG-1’s seventh season, we did so with pride for all we had accomplished over the show's long run and a certain amount of sadness that it would finally be over. After seven glorious seasons, Stargate: SG-1 would be coming to an end. Still, we were going out on top, with our ratings strong and dvd sales just as impressive. Sure, given the strong numbers, we were somewhat disappointed it was concluding but, for my part, I couldn’t really complain. I’d joined the production with the assumption we’d go two years and, instead, ended up staying four. I’d had a great time and now, it was time to end the series in style by wrapping up loose ends and finishing strong.

Which we did. At which point we learned we’d be coming back for an unbelievable eighth season. But, in retrospect, not so hard to believe. Like I said, our ratings were strong and our dvd sales just as impressive. Why the hell NOT do another season?

LOST CITY I (721)

The plan (actually “plans” since it was fast becoming a habit) was to wrap up the show and then cap it with a movie. Lost City was going to be that movie – until we got the eighth season pick-up, at which point it was rewritten and turned into our two-part season finale. This episode saw the introduction of Dr. Elizabeth Weir. Blonde in Lost City I and II, she goes brunette by the time the Atlantis expedition gets underway in Rising I and II (In case you failed to notice).

One of my favorite moments of this season comes when all of SG-1 gathers for what they think may be the last time. With Jack facing an uncertain future, Sam unexpectedly drops by for a visit. As they sit down for a beer, there’s a knock. O’Neill opens the door to discover Daniel at his front door. Not long after, Teal’c comes a-calling. As much as I enjoyed the show’s high-adventure, I especially enjoyed these scenes – moments that brought the team together, demonstrating that they weren’t just teammates but good friends as well.

LOST CITY II (722)

A great season-ender that sets the stage for game-changing events, particularly with regard to Anubis’ destruction of an aircraft carrier. I mean, holy smokes! How the heck is the government going to cover something like that up?!

Making a special appearance in this episode is General John P. Jumper, former Chief of Staff of the United States Airforce. I remember running into him in the production office the day before he was to shoot his episode and asking whether he had any plans to explore further acting opportunities in the near future. He chuckled and assured me his Stargate appearance was a one-time-only thing. “You sure?”I asked. “Next week, I better not turn on the t.v. and catch you on Moesha.”