Battlestar Galactica (1978)

The classic 1978 space opera that launched a franchise — Commander Adama leads humanity's last survivors on an epic journey to find Earth.

Battlestar Galactica - Series Information

  • Original Title: Battlestar Galactica
  • First Air Year: 1978
  • Last Air Year: 1979
  • Created by: Glen A. Larson
  • Type: TV Series
  • Genres: Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Drama
  • Content Rating (US): TV-PG
  • Number of Seasons: 1
  • Number of Episodes: 21
  • Status: Ended
  • Original Language: English
  • Spoken Languages: English
  • First Air Date: September 17, 1978 (United States - TV-PG), September 17, 1978 (United Kingdom - PG), September 17, 1978 (Germany - 12), September 17, 1978 (France - 12), September 17, 1978 (Australia - M), September 17, 1978 (Brazil - 12)
  • Networks: ABC
  • Alternative Titles: Battlestar Galactica (1978) (FR), Galactica (BE), Battlestar Galactica: The Saga of a Starworld (US), Звездный крейсер «Галактика» (RU), Galaktika Harci Csillag (HU)
  • Production Companies: Universal Television, Glen A. Larson Productions
  • Production Countries: United States of America

Battlestar Galactica - Plot

When the 12 Colonies of Man are wiped out by a cybernetic race called the Cylons, Commander Adama and the crew of the battlestar Galactica lead a ragtag fleet of human survivors in search of a "mythical planet" called Earth.

Battlestar Galactica - Trailer

Watch the official trailer and see the epic journey begin:

The Last Battlestar Galactica Leads a Rag Tag Fugitive Fleet on a Lonely Quest for a Shining Planet Known as...Earth.

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Battlestar Galactica - Cast & Crew

Creator(s)

  • Glen A. Larson

Main Cast

  • Lorne Greene
  • Dirk Benedict
  • Richard Hatch
  • Maren Jensen
  • Herbert Jefferson Jr.
  • Terry Carter
  • Noah Hathaway
  • Tony Swartz
  • John Colicos
  • Laurette Spang

Writers

  • Donald P. Bellisario
  • Glen A. Larson
  • Michael Sloan
  • Jim Carlson
  • Terrence McDonnell

Executive Producers

  • Glen A. Larson

Battlestar Galactica - FAQs

What is Battlestar Galactica about?

Battlestar Galactica follows Commander Adama and the crew of the last surviving battlestar as they lead a fleet of human refugees across the galaxy in search of the legendary planet Earth, after a devastating Cylon attack wipes out the Twelve Colonies of Man.

Is Battlestar Galactica based on a true story?

No, Battlestar Galactica is not based on a true story. Creator Glen A. Larson drew inspiration from science fiction traditions, ancient mythology, and religious themes — particularly those of the Latter-day Saint faith — to craft the series' epic narrative of survival and exodus across the stars.

Who are the main actors in Battlestar Galactica?

The principal cast includes Lorne Greene as Commander Adama, Dirk Benedict as Lt. Starbuck, Richard Hatch as Capt. Apollo, Maren Jensen as Lt. Athena, Herbert Jefferson Jr. as Lt. Boomer, Terry Carter as Colonel Tigh, and John Colicos as the villainous Count Baltar.

When did Battlestar Galactica first air?

Battlestar Galactica premiered on September 17, 1978, on ABC in the United States. The series launched with a feature-length pilot that was also released theatrically in some international markets before the weekly television episodes began airing.

Is Battlestar Galactica worth watching?

For fans of classic late-1970s science fiction and space opera, Battlestar Galactica remains an entertaining and nostalgic watch. Its ambitious scope, memorable characters, and pioneering special effects were groundbreaking for television at the time, even if the storytelling feels episodic by modern standards.

Where can I stream Battlestar Galactica (1978)?

Battlestar Galactica (1978) is available to purchase digitally through Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, and Fandango At Home. Availability may vary by region. Check JustWatch for the most current streaming and purchase options in your area.

How does the 1978 Battlestar Galactica differ from the 2004 remake?

The 1978 original is a family-friendly space adventure with a lighter, action-driven tone, while the 2004 Ronald D. Moore reimagining is a darker, politically charged drama aimed at adult audiences. Both share core concepts — Cylons, Commander Adama, and the search for Earth — but differ greatly in style and depth.

What are similar shows to Battlestar Galactica (1978)?

Viewers who enjoyed Battlestar Galactica (1978) may also like Buck Rogers in the 25th Century, Star Trek, Babylon 5, Star Trek: Voyager, and Andromeda — all of which share the series' spirit of space exploration, interstellar conflict, and ensemble adventure storytelling.

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