Some of the most cherished memories from my early days working on SG-1 are linked to Director Peter DeLuise. His dynamic approach, deep understanding of the show’s lore, and of course, his infectious sense of humor were unforgettable. His office, just across the hall from Paul and me, was like a Stargate museum filled with the most bizarre and fascinating items imaginable. It was adorned with prop weapons, striking alien designs, and even a rubber cast of a pregnant belly with a pocket for symbiote creatures. It might sound like a chamber of curiosities, but whenever cast or crew members brought their children around, they were always drawn to Peter’s office. They were eager to see the strange collection, but even more so, they were drawn to Peter himself, who would always put on a special show for them. From my office, I could hear him chatting with the kids, engaging them in conversation about their interests, which would inevitably lead to his signature “Pull my finger” joke and his spot-on Barney the Dinosaur impression, which never failed to impress. Peter was, and still is, a source of laughter, but he is also an incredibly dedicated, hardworking, and talented individual who has both written and directed some of the most pivotal episodes of the franchise. As SG-1 approached its conclusion, a show that had been a significant part of his life for many years, Peter decided to step away from the Stargate universe for a while.
However, I’m thrilled to announce that, three years later, Peter has returned to the Stargate family. And even better, he received overwhelmingly positive feedback for his work on a (not so) small episode titled “Fire.” It’s been wonderful working with him again, and I’m excited to see much more of him in the coming months.
A few weeks ago, I asked Peter if he would be interested in contributing a guest post to this blog. “It’s simple,” I explained. “I’ll gather some questions from fans and send them your way. You can choose which ones you want to answer, send me your responses, and I’ll post it all as a dedicated Peter DeLuise entry.” It seemed straightforward enough – unless you’ve never done something like this before and are so overwhelmed by the sheer volume and quality of fan questions that, instead of picking and choosing, you end up answering every single one of them. He was clearly impressed by the thoughtfulness and detail in many of your questions and felt compelled to respond with equal care and detail. Oh, and humor. The prank he pulled on those poor Jaffa extras still makes me laugh every time I think about it.
Actor Peter DeLuise on the set of Stargate, showcasing his signature humor and engaging personality.
Before handing it over to Peter, I also want to mention another Stargate-related guest blogger announcement. Producer John G. Lenic has been with the franchise since the very beginning, starting with the “Children of the Gods” pilot. Over his many years with us, his responsibilities have ranged from scheduling and budgeting to coordination and general problem-solving. He’s one of the first on set every morning and one of the last to leave at the end of each day. John has kindly agreed to participate in a Q&A, so if you have questions for him, please start posting them!
And now, let’s hear from Peter…
PDL: First, I want to express my sincere thanks to Joe for making this Q&A possible… and for making me feel so welcome upon my return to the Stargate office, back across the hall from him. Now, let’s get to the questions… I’ve tried to answer them in the spirit they were asked. Please forgive me if I’ve taken them too seriously… or not seriously enough.
Delaynie asks: “How much fun was it to Direct ‘Window of Opportunity,’ and where did you find your inspiration to write ‘Fragile Balance’? What’s your favorite memory from working on Stargate, and finally, how awesome was it to work on Supernatural and with Erik Kripke?”
PD L: ‘Window of Opportunity’ was a blast. I wish they could all be that fun. We knew we were running short on time, and many of the ‘antics’ were last-minute additions to fill out the episode’s length. These ‘antics’ turned out to be the highlight, at least for me. Part of the inspiration for ‘Fragile Balance’ can be traced back to the naked puppet of Thor. I looked at it and realized it had no genitals, so it was clear that the Asgard reproduced differently than humans. Figuring out how the Asgard sustained their population ultimately led to a concept used in the story that became ‘Fragile Balance.’ Erik Kripke wrote the episode of Supernatural I was in but didn’t direct it, so my ‘work’ with him was limited to saying his lines. My brief time on Supernatural was very enjoyable. I did get to visit with Kim Manners, a producer/director on Supernatural who had directed many episodes of 21 Jump Street and the pilot. Kim passed away this year, so I am grateful for the short time I had to see him. He was a genuinely good person and a great director… I learned a lot from him.
Kennythewraith writes: “I enjoy all the work you have done with Stargate over the years and am excited to see you back working on SGU. I’m wondering if this is on a permanent basis or a one-time thing?”
PDL: I don’t know. I really like the show and especially the cast. I’m sure if my episode is well-received, they will have me back. So, I hope it’s permanent… I need the work.
Juralas writes: “In the episodes you direct, will you make a cameo appearance and/or name any minor characters after 21 Jump Street characters, like you did in previous Stargate series?”
PDL: Yes. I did something on this episode of SGU that is more abstract than usual.
Laura asks: “Which was your favorite walk-on part, and how do you direct while performing your little parts?”
PDL: My favorite cameo – “Wormhole X-treme” and “200”. I actually got to say something, and it was silly. The way I direct when I’m in front of the camera is simple. We can play back recorded takes for me to review, or I can just trust the people watching the monitors… (which I usually do.)
Amac251 writes: “What was it like growing up as the son of Dom DeLuise? How did his sense/style of humor affect you and your brothers? Do you have any children/nieces/nephews to carry on the DeLuise legacy of humor? BTW, I loved you in Robson Arms.”
PDL: Growing up around my Dad was amazing. His humor is beyond belief, but the intelligence, sensitivity, and insight to create that humor are off the charts. My brothers and I are really no different from most kids… we want to please our parents and make them proud. Yes, we have procreated.
ThomasJohnBrown writes: “I bet you have trouble answering this, but it’s been on my mind. In the episode you directed in SG1, ‘Reckoning Parts 1&2,’ the device on Dakara was used to send an energy wave through all the Stargates in the Milky Way network simultaneously. This means that the energy wave that went directly into the gate on Dakara was then transmitted through every gate. It was the same wave, only replicated thousands of times over through the incoming wormholes. Now, what would happen if you were to put a human into the gate at Dakara when all the gates were dialed in the network? Would that human be copied like the energy wave, and have thousands of copies on all the planets in the gate network? Or would that human be transmitted in a million pieces and come out in bloody chunks of nasty out of every Stargate? I mean, if the wave was copied in the buffer of the Dakara gate and then transmitted out to all gates, then it would make sense that the same would happen with a human! But then I got to thinking about how Ba’al cloned himself many times. If my theory was correct, then why didn’t he just rig the gate to dial, let’s say, 50 or so gates in the network and just step on through?? It would be a perfect copy every time, just like it was for the energy wave! Surely, I’m not smarter than Ba’al???”
PDL: Wow, that is quite a question. I don’t think the Ancients intended the Stargate to be a cloning machine. I think for the logic of the story, the device on Dakara, in combination with open wormholes, ‘magnified’ the energy from the device, not ‘replicated’ it, and would have a different effect on organic matter… until a storyline was needed for it to create many clones as you suggest. I’m guessing you may get a future story credit on the episode, “Send in the Clones,” if there ever is one.
JimfromJersey writes: “I’ve been a fan for… longer than I’d like to remember: 21 Jumpstreet, Highlander, Seaquest, Stargate(s), Sanctuary….you just seem to be associated in some way with my favorite shows ever. So I need to ask: How are you so awesome??? But in all seriousness: To what do you owe your longevity in the business, and in so many varying roles (i.e., actor, director, writer, producer, etc…), besides your aforementioned awesomeness, of course.”
PDL: You flatter me. Except for Seaquest, all the shows you mention shot/shoot in Vancouver. I think you respond to shows that tend to shoot here. My longevity, as you call it, is based on a desire to remain employed. So I try to contribute in a way that my bosses can’t help but notice… i.e. “Hey, is that DeLuise in the bathroom scrubbing the toilet again? …What a keener.”
Shirt ‘n Tie writes: “For Peter DeLuise: First off, how is your Dad? Huge fan for years! Second: I know it’s a bit premature, but will you be doing the Audio Commentary for your ep? Third: Is it true you hung onto Anubis’ Super Soldier Outfit? Thank you for all of your talents in the Stargate Franchise over the years, and continued success.. and B-I-G-G-E-R!!”
PDL: My Dad is doing well, thanks for asking. Re: commentary. It IS premature, but I guess so. I don’t have the Super Soldier Outfit, did I joke about that? Black is very slimming, and I dig the codpiece…
Whovian writes: “How is Dom doing? Please give him a huge hug from me. If you wouldn’t mind. Which brings me to my next question. Your dad is a great cook. How about you? Do you love to cook? And if so, are you good at it? I only say this because I happen to suck at cooking no matter how hard I try. ‘Window Of Opportunity’ is my all-time favorite episode, probably of any television show. Ever. What’s your favorite Stargate episode? It doesn’t have to be one on which you worked. Thanks so much for stopping by to talk with us. I’m very excited you are back!”
PDL: Hug for Dad… on it. I am not a great cook and empathize. My favorite is ‘Urgo’ because I got to work with my Dad. I also really enjoyed “Wormhole X-treme”.
RSThomas90 writes: “Peter DeLuise, were you born this awesome?”
PDL: Mom? Is that you?
NZ_Jackie writes: “I have always wanted to know how fun it was to work with your family on Stargate? And is it even an accident that they all seem to follow you to a show??”
PDL: It is fun, sometimes too much fun. We have all worked on each other’s shows at one point or another. If a job lasts long enough, eventually someone ends up saying, “Hey, wouldn’t your dad and/or brother and/or son be right for this?”
Shiningwit writes: “OOH! I have a question for Peter DeLuise. Season 3 ‘URGO’ is a favorite of mine and looks SO much fun. I love to watch the background guys trying hard to pretend like they can’t see Urgo. Did the senior Mr. DeLuise ad-lib any/much, and was it as much fun for you guys behind the scenes as it was for us on the other side of the TV screen?”
PDL: Yes, keeping a straight face was very difficult on the set of “Urgo”. Many ruined takes due to laughter. My dad did ad-lib a fair bit. There was an enormous amount of material in post that Brad Wright expertly waded through in editing to make a wonderful episode.
Gilder writes: “For PDL–What do you consider your “masterpiece” on-set prank? Best wishes to your parents, whose work I’ve enjoyed for decades. Remember Lambertville (NJ) Music Circus? Attended several events there in the 60’s.”
PDL: I don’t think this qualifies as ‘masterpiece,’ but I love to torment the extras. Usually when we had a field of ‘dead’ Jaffa, I would scream while we were rolling at no one in particular, “I can see your eyes moving!” They would all hold perfectly still. Then I would scream even louder, “You are so fired if you don’t stop moving your eyes!!!” All of them would be frozen, hoping I wasn’t screaming at them… good times.
PoorOldEdgarDerby writes: “Questions for Mr. DeLuise (bear with me): 1. I know that much of the production staff will follow to SGU, but how are you feeling about directing a new bunch after years with the same actors? 2. I’ve never really watched 21 Jump Street. Is it any good? 3. How come I pronounce your dad’s name differently? Am I the only one who tends to separate the De more prominently? 4. Your commentaries have always been a highlight for my DVD viewings. Will you be returning to do more? 5. On that note, how is Gary Jones doing these days? 6. Will you continue to cast yourself as an extra on SGU? 7. Who is your second favorite Beatle?”
PDL: It always concerns me when questions start, “bear with me” followed by a numbered list. Perhaps my therapist can figure out what my issues are with that. 1. I welcome a chance to work with new actors. (BTW These new guys ROCK!) 2. I don’t know… 3. I don’t know. Yes. 4. Thank you. I don’t know. I hope so. 5. Gary Jones is the best. We must all bow down before him. 6. I don’t know. I hope so. 7. I don’t know.
ChelledeBoer writes: “Oooh goodie…questions for Peter!!! I had a major crush on that man back in the 21 Jump Street days…I was all of about 17/18 years of age…ahh the memories! Ok…Peter…thank you so much for joining us here for a Q&A session. I just have a few questions if that’s ok. 1. In terms of directing, what was the most difficult episode of Stargate you directed and why? 2. What was your favorite episode of Stargate that you directed? 3. What is the most difficult aspect of directing? 4. In terms of acting, do you get a chance to stretch your acting skills much anymore? 5. What is the one thing you would have loved to have seen happen on Stargate SG1 that didn’t happen? 6. How’s your dad? I loved him in the episode Urgo and the movie Smokey and the Bandit. He makes me laugh. As do you when you do your Bill Cosby impersonation! Finally, any chance of you popping down under for a meet and greet with the fans?? I’d love to say hi. Thank you. Cheers!! xxxx ~Chelle”
PDL: More numbered questions… 1. ‘Most difficult’ – “Condemned” …Too many cast members in too many scenes. I still have nightmares. 2. Favorite episode to direct, “Urgo” (because I got to work with my dad) and “Wormhole X-treme” (Brother) 3. Trying not to freak out. 4. No. I miss acting. 5. Love alternate reality episodes. I know it’s a stretch but I wanted to see Walter Harriman and Sam Carter consummate their relationship in zero gravity. 6. Dad is well. I really like Australians… anything is possible.
Artdogspot writes: “Love your commentaries on the SG 1 DVD set. It is fun to hear your take as an actor versus the other directors with their more technical approaches. 1. How did you begin directing? 2. How does your acting background help you visualize your approach to directing? 3. Given respect for the great writing on these shows – do you feel that you can allow more improvisation on your sets than other directors because of your acting background? 4. Have you had input into the mythology of SGU? 5. Any future performances by you in any upcoming gory-yet-amusing scifi tv movies?”
PDL: Thanks. OK, I’m getting used to the numbered thing. 1. I started directing on 21 Jump Street because just acting wasn’t stimulating enough for me. Ironic that I now crave acting so much… “grass is always greener”. 2. My acting background helps me communicate with and anticipate the needs of actors. 3. Improvisation has its place, and some actors are better at it than others. Stargate scripts are pretty tight and well-thought-out, so improv is kept to a minimum (except my dad, of course, that was special.) 4. No, but I really like the premise. 5. I think you are referring to “Yeti: Curse of the Snow Demon”. No, at the moment, being beaten to death with my own leg will have to suffice for now. (BTW My character’s name was a total coincidence… I swear on all that is holy.)
The Huntress Diana writes: “During your involvement with the Stargate franchise, what was the one April Fool’s Joke that you spent the most time working on that has backfired on you? If one hasn’t backfired, then my next question is: What has been your best/favorite April Fool’s Joke, and could you explain what it was?”
PDL: I don’t do April Fool’s pranks. Sometimes after we shoot a scene when an actor is fishing for a compliment or validation “how was that?” I will answer, “Don’t worry, we’ll fix it in post.” I don’t do anything too off the hook; it’s important for actors to feel safe.
JK Carter writes: “What and who makes you laugh out loud?”
PDL: Things that I find funny are: Unguarded moments… Human shortcomings… My Dad and Brothers, Jon Stewart, Steve Carell (The Office), and my 5-year-old son.
Major D Davis writes: “1. Was the end of ‘Stronghold’ hard to direct because it had some extremely realistic and intense combat scenes? 2. Having directed on all three Stargate shows, which is your favorite to direct on? 3. Which set do you like most, the Atlantis set, the Stargate Command set, or the Destiny set?”
PDL: 1. My memory of the end of Stronghold was that it was not harder than usual… it was fun actually. 2. At present, my favorite to direct is SGU because of the shooting style. I find it very liberating. 3. The Destiny set is my favorite. It has many advantages, including space, depth, texture, and many practical lights.
Morjana writes: “Questions for Peter DeLuise: 1. You’ve directed on 22 different projects — from TV series to made-for-TV movies — and in varying genres, from Sci-Fi to Crime/Drama/Action to Romantic Comedy. Do you have a decided favorite, or do you enjoy the balance between them? 2. Will you also be working on Sanctuary this year as a Director and/or Director/Writer? 3. Any anecdotes from the Supernatural set? Best wishes to Dom and all of your family, Peter, and thank you for taking the time to answer our questions. Thank you too, Joe, for this opportunity.”
PDL: 1. I prefer comedy/romantic comedy… I like to entertain but love to make people laugh. 2. I don’t know if Sanctuary is going to have me back. 3. I played someone possessed by a demon… as it was being purged from my body, I needed to whip my head around violently… I had a very sore neck for several days… it was cool though because I got to work as an actor.
Robert writes: “I have enjoyed all the Episodes you have directed. One particular one stands out for me… ‘Urgo’ from early on in Stargate SG1. Did you enjoy directing Your Father…? Will we see you working with any of your brothers again? I think all You DeLuise Men are superb actors. I still remember you from Seaquest… Will you be writing any Episodes for SGU… Or possibly be in line to direct any SG1 or SGA Films.. Or even coming up with any stories for future Stargate Films.”
PDL: Yes, ‘Urgo’ was my favorite to direct, and I cherish that time I had with my dad. I love working with my brothers, so I hope that happens again. Re: my future with SG… I don’t know. I hope so… time will tell.
Libkat writes: “Thanks so much for taking time to answer our questions. It is great that you are back in Stargate land. 1. Did you alter your directing style when working with your dad? (Like were you on your best behavior?) 2. Did you take advantage of the situation when directing your brothers to be extra bossy? 3. I saw David at a Con a couple of years ago. Is funny just in the DeLuise genes?”
PDL: 1) Yes, I was on my best behavior for my dad. It was… my dad. 2) Yes, I took advantage of my brothers… I was drunk with power. 3) I don’t know about genes or not, but my brothers can sure make me laugh… not an easy thing to do.
Jim from West VA writes: “Will Gary Jones be joining you for any DVD commentaries?”
PDL: I don’t know, but I would love that. Jonesy is the best.
Blaine Nielsen writes: “Ooh, ooh question for Mr. DeLuise: after taking a break from the Stargate production, last one being ‘Family Ties,’ how does it feel to be back??? And will we see you around more often?? More Commentary on episodes with Gary Jones?? Thanks for dropping by”
PDL: My episode of SGU was a blast. I hope there is more to come, including the commentary… with Gary… that would be so cool.
Deeinsouthafrica writes: “How many Stargate related ‘pieces-of-junk-I-cannot-throw-away’ inhabit your house?”
PDL: Mom, I really need that stuff! Memorabilia is worth big bucks! Including the Tok’ra nose hair trimmer from Jolinar’s Memories. (It’s true… look at it closely, when Martouf uses it on Carter… not on her nose… her temple.)
Lewis writes: “I love all the SGs and some of the other shows you’ve directed. They’re some of the funniest. I have 2 questions: 1. Did you ever hear the Roger Daltry tune, ‘After the Fire’? He mentions your dad. It’s on the album, ‘Under a Raging Moon.’ 2. How is your father doing? I used to watch him on TV on his comedy show.”
PDL: Yes, I have heard the Roger Daltry song, and I made my dad listen to it. He had a big grin, ear to ear. Just like the grin he had when watching ‘Sleepless in Seattle’ and Bill Pullman orders a bottle of “Dom DeLuise”.
DasnDanger writes: “For Peter DeLuise: First, I’d like to thank you for all you’ve helped to create over the years. I’m one of those fans going back to your 21 Jump Street days, and I can honestly say that your love for – and enjoyment of – what you do is clearly reflected in your work. Now, a few questions: 1. Loved the ‘Nubbins’ episode! It was one of my favorites. How much fun (or not) was it working with the Sanctuary bunch, and will you have any involvement with the show next season? 2. Back in S1 of 21 Jump Street, you had a ten-second scene with Chris Heyerdahl in the episode ‘Next Generation’ (yes, I know these things – I have all the boxsets!). Do you remember working with him waaaaaaaay back then? 3. Okay – this is the most important one: Wraith, exactly how many prongs DO they have in their prong region??”
PDL: Thanks, that’s very kind of you. 1. I really liked working on Sanctuary. ‘Nubbins’ was a light and funny episode, so that made it all the more enjoyable. 2. I did not remember working with Chris on 21 Jump Street, thanks for the heads up. 3. The number of prongs a Wraith has in its prong region is dependent on the Wraith’s sex.
Montrealer writes: “Read somewhere that they are using the RED HD digital camera in Sanctuary. Is that true? In any case, any comments about working with the RED and other HD camera systems? Will film cameras go the way of the typewriter anytime soon?”
PDL: Yes, Sanctuary uses the RED, probably because of the large number of virtual backgrounds in the show. Martin Wood is a huge fan of the RED and can answer that question far better than I. SGU uses the Genesis, and the people over there prefer it to the RED. They have different needs. I believe HD digital is the future of Camera systems in the foreseeable future. Film has been around for over 100 years, and the basic principle has remained the same. That being said, someone will always prefer film to digital, just like some filmmakers preferred black and white to color, or silent to talkies. They still make black and white films, and not so long ago my dad was in “Silent Movie”… but it was in color… huh. It is still common for some shows to revert back to film when shooting in direct sunlight because the intensity of the sunlight does not ‘translate’ well to digital and compromises the image quality. I do not think film will go away ‘soon’… but slowly over time it will be used less and less… it makes me sad, actually.
Crayonbaby writes: “1. What series/films are you working on directing or are in the works for you in the future? 2. Do you plan on ever acting in anything again? I imagine that the directing takes up much of your time. 3. Have you ever contemplated creating a series starring your family? There are just so many talented people in your family. Hope they are all doing well.”
PDL: 1. I was working over at Kyle XY and thought I had a future there, but that show was canceled. (Very sad… a lot of talented people over there.) I just finished shooting “Robin Hood: Beyond Sherwood” with a lot of sci-fi veterans: Robin Dunne, Julian Sands, Erica Durance, David Palffy, David Richmond-Peck, Mark Gibbon, and Katherine Isabelle for The Sci-Fi Channel. I’m hoping that this year I direct some more SGU. 2. I miss acting very much, but times are tough, and directing pays the bills. I will act when the opportunity arises. 3. The thought of creating a show for the family has come up, but never panned out.
Planet_tv writes: “I would just like to say that my favorite episode that you wrote and directed of SG-1 is ‘Death Knell.’ Now here are my questions. 1. Where did you get the idea to stick yourself in the background of the Stargate episodes you direct? 2. What would you say was your favorite episode to write of SG-1?”
PDL: 1. I got/stole the idea from Sir Alfred Hitchcock. He did cameos in many of his films. 2. My favorite episode to write was ‘Evolution Part 2.’ Specifically, the character of Burke, a character from Jack’s past, played so well by Enrico Colantoni. When writing for the character, I felt as though I was channeling the spirit of Burke… It was strange and wonderful!
Delynn writes: “In ‘200,’ you let out an impressive stream of expletives that lasted for a very long time! Did you have to borrow from other languages to keep that going, or did you repeat a couple?”
PDL: I repeated many.
Luis writes: “This is for Peter, thanks for taking the time out to answer questions….My MOM is 91, and she is a huge fan of your Dad. I believe my Mom has all the movies on DVD that Dom has ever been in. Do you have your own website where we Peter fans can get updates on what your directing, producing stuff like that??..hopefully, you will be back to direct a few more episodes of SGU….EH?”
PDL: I do not own a website. IMDB.com is always a good way to get updates on anybody.
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Behind the scenes with actor Peter DeLuise on the set of Stargate, showcasing his directorial talent.
Babancat writes: “You wrote and directed ‘Affinity,’ an angsty episode in terms of the Sam/Jack ship. Whenever we discuss this episode, the hot topic is, what did Jack mean by his answer ‘I wouldn’t be here’ when Sam shows him the ring and asks him ‘What about you?’ Shippers have come up with lots of thoughts, but I’d like to know your thinking when you wrote and directed the episode. Thanks.”
PDL: This was the intention. We knew the audience would read what they wanted into this line, and that’s the way I like it.
Jason writes: “Did you ever expect the character of Lorne to take off like it did when you first came up with the character and named him after your brother or father-in-law? Thanks for casting Kavan Smith in the role; he’s one of my favorites now.”
PDL: Major Lorne is named after my brother-in-law Lorne Loder in the episode “Enemy Mine”. Kavan Smith stood out from the get-go. He’s very focused, handsome, and talented. It was a no-brainer to bring him back. I didn’t ‘expect’ him to work on Stargate as much as he did, but I was not ‘surprised’ because he is so good. (He’s one of my favorites too.)
Ytimyona writes: “1. Did you come up with the name “Orpheus” for the episode you wrote? If not, where did it come from? 2. Did anyone ever thank you for contributing so very much to DVD sales? (We only buy them for the commentaries, yanno, and yours are some of the best!) 3. What is the best practical joke you’ve played in all your years on the show? 4. When I IMDB’d your mane, I accidentally misspelled it “Delouise,” and to my surprise, a character popped up instead of an actor/director/producer! Did you name this character, or was he just named in your honor?”
PDL: 1. I used the title ‘Orpheus’ from Greek mythology because I felt my episode paralleled his descent into the underworld to retrieve his wife, as when Teal’c went into the death camp to retrieve his son and Bratac. 2. I am so pleased you like the commentaries. I guess, in a way, you just ‘thanked’ me. 3. I could tell you that I put plastic wrap on one of the cast members’ dressing room toilets, so that the pee ran off and into his pants… but I could not confirm or deny that. 4. Ray Galletti played the ‘Navigator’ in the episode Memento. I had him put my name on his uniform, so his character name on IMDB went from “Navigator” to “Navigator Major Peter DeLouise”. I don’t know why it has an ‘o’ in it, and no one called him by that name in the episode. Maybe it looks better on Ray’s resume.
Judy Derby writes: “I noticed several fans have asked this question Peter, but how IS your Dad doing? I am such a big fan of his and was very thrilled to see what a great job he did with his boys! I absolutely love Stargate–there’s not a show that comes close on television these days. Of course, we’re all waiting eagerly for Universe in October (hopefully!) and it would just be perfect if the news came that you will be asked to direct some of the episodes. Great work!”
PDL: My dad is hanging in there… he is still sharp as a tack and as funny as ever. In my humble opinion, I think SGU is pretty damn good, and I’m very pleased to have directed an episode and been a part of it. I hope I get to direct more.
Chevron7 writes: “1. Your audio commentaries are legendary. Did you ever get told by the studio or Brad to tone them down at all? 2. What’s the biggest thing you learned about yourself and writing/directing while doing Stargate? 3. Who’s your favorite superhero? 4. Why did you leave? 5. It would be remiss if I didn’t have a toilet question. What are the toilets like on Destiny? 6. Everyone’s asking about your Dad. I actually was wondering what Michael was up to. He was hilarious on Gilmore Girls.”
PDL: 1. I’m glad you like the commentaries. I have been gently cautioned by ‘legal,’ and any prolonged silent moments on the commentaries were precautionary edits. 2. I learned I need balance in my life. To be truly good at what I do, I need life experience. When I first started on Stargate, I was single, and I was content to do nothing but Stargate all day long. This meant that my total life experience while doing the show was nothing but Stargate. I am married now with a 5-year-old son. That kind of life experience makes me a way better director and writer. 3. I like the superheroes from ‘Mystery Men’. 4. I left the show because I needed a break and wanted to pursue more acting roles. 5. I’m not allowed to reveal info about the SGU storyline, but the toilets on the Destiny are referenced in dialogue, so you’ll have to wait and see. 6. Michael continues to work as an actor but has pursued his talent for oil painting. He is very good!
Reno Nevada writes: “Hey Peter – I just wanted to thank you for “The Defiant One.” It’s one of those episodes I will always sit down to watch whenever it’s on and is one of the first I mention when discussing Atlantis. Thanks for a great adventure!”
PDL: Thanks. The story was inspired by the Film “Hell in the Pacific” with Lee Marvin and Toshiro Mifune. The title was inspired by “The Defiant Ones” with Tony Curtis and Sidney Poitier because the Wraith refuses to die and admires Sheppard’s defiance.
Ladyhgiggle writes: “whoo hooo! A chance to question Peter. Naturally, the mind goes blank. hmmm… LOVE your humor (and I’m also one who had watched 21 JS). The Stargate’s tend to have a good bit of humor that is just plain fun. 1. When you are directing and/or producing, how much of “you” or your humor ever gets injected into those episodes? (or is it just the effect of the actors/writers being around you that it rubs off and seems to show up?) 2. Can you give any details to your Robin Hood? Like when we’re likely to see it? More of what it’s about besides what shows up on IMDB? 3. Going back to the LOVE your humor…do you perchance Tweet? It would be amazingly fun to follow you on Twitter, I would imagine. If you do, are you willing to let out how to find you.”
PDL: 1. I like to include humor when I can, even dramatic scenes can have some humor. I just try to trust my instincts and make TV I would want to watch. 2. Sci-Fi channel knows better when it will come out. It hasn’t been delivered… many vis/fx shots. This Robin Hood includes a creature. 3. I do not Tweet, but I Toot after eating my wife’s vegetable stew.
Narelle from Aus writes: “Mr. DeLuise, growing up in a household of performers, is it ingrained in you to the point that you find yourself rehearsing your McDonald’s drive-thru order while waiting, or can you switch it off easily? Did you ever dress up as Captain Chaos when you were younger? Every time a DeLuise smiles, you can’t help but crack up. It’s so infectious! Thanks.”
PDL: We did/do a lot of improv and improv games with the family. Out of respect for my dad, when he is holding court, my brothers and I switch it off… you can’t out-funny my dad. I never dressed up as Captain Chaos, but I got to watch those scenes being filmed on set! (The season 2 prop guys from Stargate dressed up as Captain Chaos to make me laugh… it worked.)
archersangel writes: “if you’re still collecting questions for Peter DeLuise, I have one; how did you get involved with Stargate in the first place?”
PDL: Mario Azzopardi left a directing slot open when he went to go direct a Movie of the Week toward the end of the second season. N. John Smith brought me in as a substitute because we worked together on 21 Jump Street. Jonathan Glassner had worked on 21 Jump Street as well, so he was familiar with what I could do.
Dovil writes: “’The Defiant One’ was one of my favorite episodes, and your commentaries were some of the funniest things out – I laughed so hard I died, which was tragic for everyone concerned. No, wait, that’s not a question. Read it aloud in a quizzical voice and maybe add a question mark to it. Yeah, I’ve got nothing. What’s your credit card number?”
PDL: You’re funny. You should write for television.
Maruxs writes: “1. What’s the difference between directing SG1+SGA and SGU? 2. Can you describe how did you get your job (as director and writer) on Stargate? 3. Which one of your scripts is in your opinion the best?”
PDL: 1. Between SG1 and SGA, the major difference was the actors. Enough behind-the-scenes people were working on both shows simultaneously that, to me, the real difference was the actors. Every actor requires a different type of directing, so dealing with each individual actor was the major directing difference to me. On SGU, the difference went beyond actors because the shooting style was radically changed from SG1 and SGA. The shooting style dictated a much more ‘realistic’ acting and blocking style be incorporated… which I loved! 2. I described how N. John Smith brought me in as a substitute to Direct, but it was Brad Wright who mentored me after I pitched a story to him and encouraged me to write. We were in a van on the way to a set read-through just prior to filming ‘Demons,’ an episode which had an Unas controlled by a Goa’uld symbiote. I thought a story of a planet with un-Goa’ulded Unas in their natural state and the Goa’uld homeworld describing the backstory of the bad guys would make a cool episode. Brad told me to write it down, and we would develop the idea. After an enormous amount of trial and error on my part and an even larger amount of patience on Brad’s part, I finally wrote (and directed) ‘The First Ones’. The title comes from “Thor’s Hammer” when another Goa’ulded Unas is Identified as being from “The First Ones,” meaning they were the first to be taken over by the Goa’uld. 3. I really like ‘Evolution Part 2’ because of the Burke character and O’Neill backstory.
Well, this has been more fun than I thought it was gonna be. Joe, thanks again…
…and most importantly, thanks to all of you who have taken the time to write your questions and watch this show and support the Stargate ‘Organism’ that is changing and growing… because of YOU.
…you rock!
See ‘ya, Peter DeLuise
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