AC Exclusive Interview with Battlestar Galactica's Richard Hatch

Veteran Actor Bridges Gap Between Classic Sci-Fi Series and New Show

Richard Hatch wants you to go climb a tree.

During our chat, it was one of many things I learned about the actor, best known as Apollo on classic science fiction series Battlestar Galactica. His idea of exercise isn't a standard gym trip. Indeed, a non-traditional way of thinking defines this California native's dynamic approach to living.

His television break came on ABC's All My Children. Viewers not only saw an impressive acting range, but heard his musical talent, stemming from early nurturing of classical piano at the tender age of eight. In fact, Hatch's musicianship was so well received, MGM Records came calling and he nearly signed a deal. Now his son continues the legacy as songwriter and musician in his own right.

Many boast of being inspirational or motivational. Any actor worth their salt can inspire us to at least believe a character their portraying. With Richard Hatch, the motivational part is no empty boast. While chatting, I couldn't help reminisce about myself growing up watching him as star traveling Apollo and the wholly satisfying achievement of scaling trees as a boy.

Early TV Roles: Listening To Yoda

Friend, Elliot Mintz, described as a "Yoda" like guy in a little cabin in the mountains urged Hatch to study acting. Mintz went on to be spokesman for stars like John Lennon, Yoko Ono and Paris Hilton. Hatch also studied ballet, loving its grace, and social benefits. "I loved ballet, in fact all the girls I dated were ballerinas."

After his stint on All My Children, he won a coveted spot on hit detective show Streets Of San Francisco starring Karl Malden. Co-star Michael Douglas was leaving, so Hatch was brought on as Malden's new partner. He relates how tough Hollywood is on even still relatively young actors. "When I got the role I was at a point in time when people said to me, 'If you don't make it soon, you know you'll be too old.' Up to then, I was on the soaps for a few years and had done lots of guest work on shows. I actually turned down a few series roles because they weren't right for me."