Richard Hatch, a man close to the hearts of many sci-fi fans passed away today, aged 71. In a career spanning close to 50 years, Hatch was best known for his role as Captain Apollo in the original Battlestar Galactica.
Born in Santa Monica in 1945, Hatch got his acting break on All My Children in 1971, kicking off a prolific career that would see him earn dozens of acting credits spanning everything from soap operas to sci-fi dramas to video games.
As the news broke this evening, those close to Hatch took to social media to share their memories of a man who was popular both on and off of the screen.
Richard Hatch was a good man, a gracious man, and a consummate professional. His passing is a heavy blow to the entire BSG family.
— Ronald D. Moore (@RonDMoore) February 7, 2017
.Richard Hatch you made our universe a better place We love you for it. Rest In Peace my friend @SoSayWeAll the Admiral!
— Edward James Olmos (@edwardjolmos) February 7, 2017
Very sad to hear about Richard Hatch ? #RIP #Apollo pic.twitter.com/Xxgxi3hXmV
— DARTH VADER (@isDARTHVADER) February 7, 2017
R.I.P Richard Hatch
Blessed to hang with him once “Find reasons to say YES in life , it leads to more opportunity “RH pic.twitter.com/k2xM7u5FDm— Karl Urban (@KarlUrban) February 7, 2017
Hatch was a rare kind of actor who was as passionate about his roles as his fans were. A popular figure on the comic con circuit, he always had time to discuss fan theories and memories with fans of the many titles he graced. But, it was Battlestar Galactica where Hatch’s passion really lay. In many ways, Hatch was the heart and soul of the Battlestar franchise. He was an outspoken advocate for bringing the franchise back, and he always had an opinion on what he thought was the best route for any future products within the title. He wrote Battlestar Galactica novels, and he even returned to the franchise during its modern reboot, featuring as Tom Zarek multiple times throughout the show’s run.
I personally recall speaking with him and listening to him at various panels and comic con showfloors– there really weren’t many who could match his charm and enthusiasm.
Richard Hatch passed away in the company of his friends and family. He is survived by his son, Paul.
So Say We All.
