Some sci-fi fans might hear Stargate and think only of the 1994 feature film starring Kurt Russell and James Spader. But others will be well aware that the film, about an archaeologist and an Air Force colonel tapped to explore a mysterious ring that’s actually a wormhole for interstellar travel, spawned an entire franchise.
The TV series Stargate SG-1, which debuted in 1997 and ran for 10 seasons, plus two direct-to-video sequel movies, was hugely popular on its own, but viewers also got two additional spin-off series, an animated series, a web series, several different tie-in games, and multiple documentaries and specials.
So it stands to reason that Amazon was well aware of Stargate having a built-in fan base when, last November, it greenlit a new series from writer, executive producer, and showrunner Martin Gero, who’d worked on Stargate: SG-1 as well as the spin-off Stargate: Atlantis.
At the time, Gero sounded understandably excited about the new series. “I’m beyond thrilled that Amazon MGM Studios has entrusted me with guiding this incredible franchise into its next phase,” he said in November 2025. “For those who’ve kept the gate active through conventions, rewatches, and unwavering faith—this one’s for you. And for those that are new to our world—I promise you’re in for something extraordinary.”
Unfortunately, the studio now seems to have had a change of heart. According to Variety‘s report from Tuesday, the show—which had yet to reveal any plot details—was scrapped because “according to an individual with knowledge of the situation, Amazon execs were concerned that Gero’s take on the series would not have broad appeal beyond the franchise’s already dedicated fanbase.”
However, the outlet also notes that Amazon, which got the Stargate IP as part of its MGM acquisition in 2022, isn’t sealing off the wormhole entirely: “Although Gero’s series will not proceed, Amazon is still exploring new ways to further the franchise.”
Presumably that will involve another attempt calibrated for “broad appeal”—which makes sense if the goal is attracting a more general audience. However, will that “already dedicated fanbase” appreciate a show that might intentionally minimize the existing Stargate lore?
Weigh in below with your thoughts on this one, especially if you’re a Stargate devotee.
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