Below is a transcript of Aaron’s REDDIT AMA from yesterday morning (October 13). It was only meant to go for an hour but he ended up answering 219 questions over 4 hours. I have only included the questions that Aaron answered and they are posted in the order that Aaron answered them in.
I’m Aaron Douglas, actor and Chief from Battlestar Galactica. AMA!
I’ve never done one of these before but Tricia and Katee told me I HAD to and you never want to piss off those two…Loooooove you girls…..
A lot of you will know me from roles other than Chief, and I’m happy to talk about those too. Ask me anything!
My proof: https://twitter.com/theaarondouglas/status/918868171020558336EDIT: That was great, everyone. Thank you for being 99.999997% dick free. Gotta run to an event now but hope to do another AMA soon. So Say We All.
mistersavage: Hey what was the trait of Chief’s personality that taught you the most about yourself?
theaarondouglas: My gods man!! It’s 9 am… gotta ease a brother into this… ;-) I love the passion of the Chief and understanding when and where to direct it. Chief and I are actually quite similar, other than the fictional part. The further I am from the show the more I realized what I learned from the writing, particularly the writing for Chief. It’s like many of these writers knew me better that I did myself. That and Chief allowed me to meet some very cool people. Friendships I cherish to this day. Thanks Mr. Savage
-Untitled-: What’s your all-time favorite BSG episode and why?
theaarondouglas: Apparently it aired on the Syfy marathon last night… or maybe tonight. Flight of the Phoenix. We shot it in chronological order and the director, Michael Nankin, took me aside before the shoot and went through his thoughts about the ep, character, etc. It was an amazing experience. And then to finally have a scene with Mary…… The BEST!
in-a-darkened-room: Hi!!! Firstly I have to say that I’ve never felt so much sympathy for a fictional character as I felt for the Chief. Something about your acting tricked some part of my brain into believing he’s a real person I think, so well done! Okay, questions: What did you think of the BSG storylines about the gods, prophecies, and long-lost temples? And if the Chief ever got lonely in prehistoric Scotland, do you think he’d have tried to form a meaningful friendship with the bears? Thank you!
theaarondouglas: I loved the way Ron merged the faiths, the myths, etc into the story. I believe it helped our audience identify a lot more with the story and the show. Chief loves all animals but as many of you know… In the wild only a Bear can truly love a Bear…..
PM_me_ur_swimsuit: What’s the most challenging role you had? Are there any you’re bummed you missed out on?
theaarondouglas: I’d say Chief was the most challenging. There was so much emotion both on and off screen for me, especially at that time in my life. I’ve had a lot of roles I’ve missed out on that I wish I had gotten but then I wouldn’t have the career I do now. If I don’t get something I know it’s because something else is meant for me.
Jericho_the_Red: Galactacon in Seattle the other year was a bust, but it was great to see you at the impromptu gathering at the bar in downtown Seattle. How was that experience?
theaarondouglas: There is NOTHING better than a #FindChief event. We need more of them.
princepsdinus: Hi Aaron, first of all thank you for doing what you do: I love your work so much! Chief Tyrol in Battlestar Galactica is probably one of the characters who goes through more stuff. Is there a part of his life (like being chief and involved with Boomer, being head of the Union and of the Resistance on New Caprica, being one of the final five…) that you found most fun to play or challenging to portray?
theaarondouglas: It was all pretty fun, emotional, trying and beautiful. The death scenes were gut punching. Every Single Frakking One
ThePorjaxian: Hi Aaron! Thanks for doing this AmA. Big BSG fan and loved your role there, I also loved your short role on Stargate SG-1. Can you tell us about the time you rescued Kari Byron (/u/realkaribyron) at Comic Con from being trampled, what happened? (source: https://twitter.com/KariByron/status/918648660484702208)
theaarondouglas: Man I love Kari…. I saw her across the room. There was at least 17 Klingons, 37 Death Eaters, 127 Walking Dead, 318 Stormtroopers and a Tribble. It was just me… They were all pushing in towards her. I had to act fast and boy did I!! It’s on video somewhere…. I’m sure it is… That’s what happened right Kari?
realkaribyron: Sounds about right. My hero.
HalfBakedTurkey: What’s your fondest memory growing up in New Westminster? I currently moved there for work.
theaarondouglas: Queens Park Arena
Starhazenstuff: What was your thought when you realized, “Holy shit this is one of the best Sci Fi’s of all time?”
theaarondouglas: I still haven’t realized that! I thought they say NO Spoilers!! ;-) I am so incredibly proud to be a small part of this amazing show.
KristiLynn629: Love you! Such a joy so see you in Dirk Gently. Do you ever get frustrated being so closely associated with just one character, no matter how awesome that character is? (I tend to yell “it’s Chief”, no matter what show you are in)
theaarondouglas: I will NEVER tire of people yelling Chief to me. I love it. I connect to the character and the show but the fact that so many people out there do as well is incredibly humbling.
mwillis96: Hi Aaron! There are many evolutions of Chief through the series. Which stage of Chief did you resonate with most? Which did you enjoy the most and why?
theaarondouglas: Hi Mandy!!! When he finally found out about the Cylon thing. I really got to stretch my legs and twist his response into a ‘the universe totally makes sense to me’ now.
vectorgeek: How did your BSG experience prepare you for other acting rolls you had after the series ended?
theaarondouglas: Be good to people. Don’t be grumpy on set. And we’re only getting shot with cameras… There are people out there doing much more important things. But honour the people who watch by giving them something amazing so they can escape the difficulties of life.
Just_A_Che_Away 99: Hey, you played my favourite character on BSG! As an actor, is there any role or project you would love to get involved with?
theaarondouglas: I would love to do a period war film. WWII or Vietnam or something like that. If anyone is listening…… hint hint hint
davec79: What’s your favorite thing that you stole from the set of BSG?
theaarondouglas: Everything…. Everyone’s chair backs My BDU’s My Orange JumpSuit Dog Tags A pistol. Wait… is NBCUNI on this thread? I took NOTHING!! But Tahmoh did…. thief ;-)
dkl415: One of my favorite moments from BSG was Tyrol’s “Mario Savio” speech. https://archive.org/details/MarioSavioSpeechInBattlestarGalactica
How intentionally tied was your performance to Mario Savio’s speech? How intentionally tied was the writing?
theaarondouglas: Completely. David Eick wrote that for me with that speech in mind. I watched the Mario speech 100’s of times. David wanted the tenor, tone and pitch to be close to Mario’s. I love that speech.
michelle_adfans: Comic book publisher, editor, and writer Joe Pruett from AfterShock Comics is currently on tour doing in-store signings. You are joining him tomorrow for a signing in Texas. How did this invitation come to be? And should we be reading anything into this? Are you interested in pursuing a side-job as a comic book writer?
theaarondouglas: Joe is signing Saturday evening at Space Cadets Collection Collection and I am joining him as a guest. Joe and I are working on a few projects and soon we will be able to tell the world. I am really excited to get into the comic book world.
theaarondouglas: Joe is the reason I am in Houston. He has plans for me and his company AfterShock Comics. Plans we cannot talk about yet but we are working on some fun things. As you know I have been writing for several years now and an opportunity opened up in the comic world so I am pursuing that and I hope that it, and many other things, come as a result.
springhorton: Hi Aaron! Do you ever work with new filmmakers and if so, what should one do to catch your interest?
theaarondouglas: Call my agent. I love working with new filmmakers… They’re lest jaded HA
zigwhenzag: Is this when you leak there will be another BSG? I really hope it is!
theaarondouglas: I can neither confirm nor deny that there is another BSG experience in the works….
TrixieVanSickle: welcome to Reddit! Thank you for doing this AMA! I’ve seen pictures of your adorable dog on your Twitter feed, can you tell us about your cute furbaby?
theaarondouglas: His name is Archer, he’s chocolate Lab and he’s a year and a half. He’s my bestie and I love him. I wanted a brother and sister so I could call them Archer and Lana but my wife said no… just one. I wanted to yell LANAAAAAAA from the front door and make her come to me….. next time…
MrGurns: If you could have one role in any upcoming movie, which role in which movie would that be?
theaarondouglas: Chief in the new BSG movie
kthrace22: Hi Aaron, thanks for doing this AMA. I am opening a deli and would love to know what your favorite sandwich is?
theaarondouglas: I am a lacto ovo vegetarian but I LOVE a really great egg salad sandwich. If my body would allow me to I would CRUSH a Reuben…… Or a Beef Dip Pastrami on Rye Corned Beef was my go to when I was a kid.
robbdire: Seeing the set of BSG, with all the Vipers etc, what was your favourite part of that particular set, and what “souvenir” did you take home?
theaarondouglas: Walking in, seeing the life size ships for the first time will be a memory that never fades
eno_tinu: Hi Arron. How is your modelling cave coming on?
theaarondouglas: It is stalled as I am busy with other things but I hope to get back to it soon. I just need Tricia to come over and then it will truly be a modelling cave……
politeandnotgay: How was your experience as “the slowest man alive” on The Flash? Is getting lobotomized by Tom Cavanagh as fun as it seems?
theaarondouglas: Tom is the best. Great guy and he delighted in killing me…. jerkface
Tournament_of_Shivs: Why does IMDB say your trademark is “Deep Raspy Voice” as opposed to “Realistic Eye Movement Conveying Thought and Emotion?” Unrelated: Do you ever feel typecast? If yes, follow-up: Based on what characteristic?
theaarondouglas: you should tell IMDB!! HA. Living in Vancouver I typically get cop, lawyer, FBI.. etc. I enjoy it when I get to do something else. Like Gordon Rimmer Gary Heller
Lerg-: Thanks Aaron for doing this! Met you a few times at DragonCon, and you’ve always been accessible, friendly, and genuinely seem to embrace us crazy fans. :) Question: If you hadn’t been cast as Chief, what other character would you have most enjoyed playing?
theaarondouglas: Wow…. Not Gaeta, too much tech talk Not Apollo, too much gym Not Helo, too much rain running around. Baltar…. Definitely Baltar.
Booshambles: Hello Chief, I am a huge fan of BSG and wanted to know 2 things. Where you happy with the way your character evolved towards the end of battlestar? Also you were a henchman in XMEN2, was that role bigger but cut in the final film, any stories from the set?
theaarondouglas: I love the storyline of the Chief and I love his ending. That shooting scene, 11 seconds in the film, took 8 days to shoot. Hugh Jackman is the nicest man you will ever meet.
stroempen: Are you also into bears and beets?
theaarondouglas: Bears Beets Battlestar Galactica
joeception: Hey Aaron, Chief was such a solid character in BSG for almost the entire series until he found out he was a cylone (went to depressive mode). How did you feel about Chief’s decline and the end of his story?
theaarondouglas: love it. love it all. Screw you both I’m going to found Scotland!
Froyo_Baggins123: I treasure BSG. Galen is such a perfect flawed character. I laughed and cried with your character at times. Where in the production were you told that you were one of the final five cylons?
theaarondouglas: Right before we started shooting that ep. Also the full story is in many places online. I told it at the BSG reunion at SDCC this past year.
angelkirie: Hi Aaron! If you had to live on one beer (or brewery) for the rest of your life, which would it be?
theaarondouglas: a very hoppy IPA
thecommanderking: Welcome to Houston! There was some spooky level fog this morning. Were you worried that you woke up in the zombie appocalypse?
theaarondouglas: I haven’t opened the curtains yet…. I think I will stay in today….
celloandbow: Which superhero do you wish you could portray and why?
theaarondouglas: As a kid I loved Aquaman. I want to be able to talk to sharks
Supershorty12: Hi Aaron, Which actor (including yourself) on BSG were most like their characters personality-wise, and vice versa? Thank you
theaarondouglas: Hogan and Tigh. Same exact guy!
Assburger_King: Random question, I know, but did you ever watch the show Firefly or it’s sequel movie Serenity? If so, what did you think of them?
theaarondouglas: I am going to get killed for this but I have not seen these… Or Dr. Who…
slthomp2: Are you a cat person, a dog person, or a frakkin toaster lover?
theaarondouglas: B and C. Cats are creepy
spookyspooky: Hi Mr. Douglas, I am a big fan with a few questions. Why is Chad the worst? Does Russ actually do anything? What will Marian be for Halloween?
theaarondouglas: If you have to ask why Chad is the worst you don’t know Chad. He’s a sharter for one. Thinks he’s Matt Damon. Can’t hold his booze. Damn him and his handsome face! Russ is completely useless. Marian will cosplay as Wizard…Heavy emphasis on the pointy hat
Polterhorst: Greetings from Europe. When and how did you find out that your BSG character was one of the final five? And what was your reaction?
theaarondouglas: That is a long story. But a good one. Google me and the Final 5 Story and you will see it recorded from a few dozen cons.
Webmistress Note: You will see this same question asked a few times. This is the BSG Reunion panel at SDCC that Aaron starts referring people to in later questions. Watch it from time stamp: 08:26 – 11:10.
RedditUser427: Star Wars or Star Trek?
theaarondouglas: Star Wars. But love Trek
VoteForRollins: Who do you like better.. Joey Belladonna or John Bush?
theaarondouglas: Both awesome but I know Joey so I have to go Joey. Great guys all of them
The8thDoctor: Hey Aaron. Thx for doing AMA. It’s implied that Tyrol became the King of Scotland. What’s will be his first invention?. Bag Pipes. Kilts. Whiskey.
theaarondouglas: Whiskey…. We cannot live without water
that_is_so_Raven: Do you watch Breaking Bad?
theaarondouglas: Loved it. Love Better Call Saul. Amazing show.
illiniman14: How was the role of the Chief originally explained to you before you started and how did it differ from what the character eventually became?
theaarondouglas: Chief of the Deck. That’s it. Then they decided to keep me and it took off from there.
OyeYouDer: Dude! My girlfriend and I just realized it was you in Dirk Gently! Solid performance! Did you wind up with jaw problems having to talk like that for the show?
theaarondouglas: Ha… Not jaw but my back. That posture almost killed me.
projectvko: How do you take your coffee? I adore you.
theaarondouglas: double double
emsydi: What has been your favourite convention experience?
theaarondouglas: I’ve had 100’s. I love meeting fans, having a pint and talking the show, sports life, whatever
normstons: Hi there, here my question: Did you have a dream where you were Gordon Rimmer or something about Dirk gently’s holistic detective agency?
theaarondouglas: I am so proud of Rimmer
CobaltAesir: Hi Aaron, I think you rocked in your role in Dirk Gentley. You barely even looked like you! What was it like to have to walk and move hunched up like that and to wear those huge glasses all the time? Did you get any back problems?
theaarondouglas: I love that they let me play, for the most part. Those glasses kept falling apart and we only had the one pair
DaStompa: Are you going to paint more models with Adam? It was a good time watching you two shoot the shit for like an hour!
theaarondouglas: I sure hope so! Love that man
mistersavage: YES!
respectfulpanda: I guess comments have to be questions. Soooo, i love your work and the question is, now that Netflix is going to focus on Canadian content with a Netflix Canada org, what are the chances your already in discussions with them? :)
theaarondouglas: Not just yet but I have a few projects I’m hoping to pitch soon.
cool_creeper500: What inspired you to be an actor?
theaarondouglas: It’s literally the only thing in which I have even the smallest ability.
eviljobob: Hi Aaron, What is your favourite episode of Red Dwarf? And have you watched any of the new series (12) yet?
theaarondouglas: The Rimmer song is still the best
1deadeye1: Hi Aaron. If you had a pontoon boat, what would you name her?
theaarondouglas: Floatie
TOMBTHEMUSICIAN: Long time BSG fan, loved your role in Dirk Gently, totally amazing!
My question is sort of two questions, sort of one question: What would your dream role of all time be? For example if you could go back in time and play that one character in that one movie, what would it be? Or similarly, what’s the character/actor you saw in your youth that made you go “well damn I gotta get in on this acting business”.
theaarondouglas: Something in The Godfather. Al Pacino in And Justice For All. Tom Hanks in Saving Private Ryan. Ralph Feinnes in Schindler’s List
PragmesianAdam: Hi Aaron, what I’d like to know is how you felt about the fate of your character in Hemlock Grove? It seemed like there was a lot more to learn about Sheriff Sworn.
theaarondouglas: I agree. Should’ve been more
ImitateOblivion: Which one of your co-stars did you have a crush on most?
theaarondouglas: Aleks Paunovic
jsabo: I still remember meeting you at ComicCon ’06, when you wandered up to the autograph area, and were immediately swarmed by folks. You were gracious enough to take the time to talk to everyone, which really impressed me. With everything you’ve done since then, are you still able to just sort of wander into a crowd of nerds, or have you become too recognizable to get away with it?
theaarondouglas: Depends on where I am. But regardless, I’ll always wade in. People are amazing. For the most part
the_costello_show: Hey Aaron, loved you in the role of Gordon Rimmer on Dirk Gently. Honestly, you played that role almost too well… only now did I realize I knew you as Chief. Thanks, man. Brilliant stuff.
Ok, so you’ve played roles in two series (BSG, Dirk Gently) that had plot lines where I had no idea where they were going… or where they’d end up. As an actor, how far do you know in advance where the story is headed and how does that affect your approach to the role? Are your motivations clear from the beginning or do you discover them along the way? Thanks, and keep up the great choices in roles!
theaarondouglas: Depends on the show. They either give you the arc or sometimes don’t.
l2apathy: Yo! I remember seeing you appear as all these characters on all these shows and movies and always thought to myself that you were seriously underrated. Just throwing that out there. When you appeared as Chief is BSG it blew my mind. I thought to myself “Why such an insignificant role again!?” However after watching the show and seeing how important of a role you played I was super happy. So yeah, just saying I think you are awesome man. I guess my real question is do you fight for roles and try to get the big ones? Or more of a “This character looks cool, I’ll do that”?
theaarondouglas: I’ll work whenever someone asks
krystynlo: How do you know Adam Savage (https://www.reddit.com/user/mistersavage)?
theaarondouglas: Through BSG and then hanging out and being silly together. Genuinely one of the finest humans I’ve ever known.
yemmlie: Love your work, you were my favourite character on BSG! I guess to turn this into a question: Do you approve that our two whippets are called Cally and Chief? You’re the one on the left looking nervous of getting a telling off.
theaarondouglas: HA. love it
Oak987: What other things have Tricia and Katee told you to do?
theaarondouglas: Not Safe For Work
Ranma_11788: Oh man! Hey Chief!! Fellow British Columbia native here. What has been your favorite role in your career? (besides BSG?) Do you have a favorite BSG episode? Thanks!!
theaarondouglas: Frank Leo in The Bridge. Flight of the Phoenix
1deadeye1: Hi Aaron, love the Anthrax shirt. What are your thoughts on the John Bush-era Anthrax? I like Belladonna, but something about those John Bush albums always hooked me in.
theaarondouglas: I love all of Anthrax. Anthems of my youth
Mjolnir12: Did you ever watch Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, which Ron Moore also worked on? A lot of the BSG elements (like darker story and political intrigue) are present in it, so I’m wondering if you or any of the other BSG actors had been exposed to it before the show started (or after).
theaarondouglas: Yeah, I love Trek. I don’t know if anyone else watches it.
mwillis96: One more from my husband…when Chief had time off was he a metalhead? If Chief were in a band which instrument would he play? Would he be a Dave Murray or Adrian Smith fan?
theaarondouglas: This is the most difficult question anyone has asked. He’s a total metalhead. He’d be a drummer. But Dave Murray because Chief loves the gallop in the songs.
Synystermuskrat: Hey Aaron! Thanks for doing an AMA. I actually worked on Dirk Gently in lighting for a couple episodes but I was always too nervous to say hi. Do you like it when fans approach you, including in the work setting? Or is it more of a on the street kind of thing?
theaarondouglas: Always come up and say hi. I love meeting people who were influenced by my work
kvachon: How soon into production did you know your character’s true idenity? Were you as shocked as I was? I honestly did not even consider it until the four of you met in that little room after following the “All Along the Watchtower” sounds throughout the ship. That blew my mind, and cemented the show as my all-time favorite.
theaarondouglas: Day before we shot it
Anywotsemporium: I gotta ask, did you get to keep anything from the show? Except your own likeness of course ?
theaarondouglas: There’s a list further up somewhere
limbodog: What’s your favorite Anthrax song?
theaarondouglas: Time
Devb0: Hey Aaron! Going into your role as Chief did you know what the significance of your character would be later on? Do you think the writers did?
theaarondouglas: Not at all. I think Chief was to die early. I’m happy they kept me.
Dongdaedongdongdong: Yooo, Chief! Holy crap this is great! I was wondering, of all the scenes you did, which was the most fun or interesting ones to make? Cheers mate!
theaarondouglas: End of Dirty Hands. Just Mary and I. I’ll never forget that.
ghidorah221: What was the island the chief settled on at the end of BSG? I’ve heard theory that it was either Vancouver or Great Britain.
theaarondouglas: What has become Scotland
YoBuckStopsHere: Cally’s death tore me up. Do you think that was one of the many reasons Galen ultimately settled far away from the others?
theaarondouglas: One on a VERY long list of people being poopy to Chief
ExskweezeMe: Aaron, Battlestar Galactica is one of the greatest shows to ever air on television. I’m not exaggerating! My question is when did you find out you were part of the final five (was it not until you read the script, or did they give you heads up) and how did you feel about it after all those years?
theaarondouglas: google BSG reunion at SDCC. I answer that very question on the stage in front of Ron and David.
Jendew400: Thanks for doing this! How is your worldview/perspective influenced by the many roles you’ve played, especially in current times?
theaarondouglas: Let’s find a way to be better to each other.
laudiusmonstar: You’re awesome man! I got the chance to see Michael Hogan in Indy during their Pop Con. From his reactions, all you guys were pretty close. Do you and the whole of BSG cast ever try to hang out or anything now that the show is over?
theaarondouglas: Whenever we are in the same city we find a way to get together. I sincerely love all of them. And that just doesn’t happen with other shows.
ishtaracademy: Did you ever get sick of the BSG writers screwing Chief over? Did you ever want to tell them “rain on someone else a while”? For those unaware… I mean… his girlfriend is the first undercover Cylon found, and she tries to kill Adama. Then she is killed, he is sad, yet everyone is happy she is dead (and despite her being a Cylon, he lost his lover in Boomer). Then Chief had to see his girlfriend’s doppleganger join the crew and start screwing his friend Helo. Then he dates Cally, has a kid, has to lead the resistance and kill friends, make hard decisions. Then he finds out his son isn’t even his son and Cally screwed Hotdog, then Cally is KILLED. Then he finds out he is actually a Cylon too, and that another Cylon is the one who killed Cally, throwing his entire life thus far into a mess (as well as all of his feelings about Boomer). My favorite part about that entire thing was the ending: fuck this, I’m going to go found Scotland. The man embodies the flavor and reason of scotch, so I was glad he decided to just go die alone in a swamp haha. It was fitting for the fact that everyone, over and over, screwed him over.
theaarondouglas: No. The worst thing that can happen to an actor is when they just write you the fill in the blanks stuff. Exposition to explain something to the audience. Or everything is happy and easy. I love the challenging stuff.
Darrens_Coconut: I just wanted to say that Chief is one of my favourite characters in BSG. The leadership, humanity and toughness when it’s required, you did an amazing job! What did you think about the character when you first heard of the role?
theaarondouglas: He wasn’t then what he ultimately became.
fluttika: Are you a SciFi fan? Fav shows? Have you seen the Expanse? I consider it to be on par with BSG.
theaarondouglas: I have not seen the Expanse but I hear great things. I’d like to get on that show for sure. I love scifi Star Wars Red Dwarf Time Bandits Westworld. So many to list
Caustic-Echo: Anything you are in currently? or coming up soon?
theaarondouglas: Just finished a movie called Thunderbird. Doing an awesome new video game…. that’s all I can say about it. Writing a lot. Have a number of things on the go.
Team_Horus: What song have you been listening to on repeat recently?
theaarondouglas: George Michael Kissing A Fool. Elvis Long Black Limo-True Love Travels a Gravel Road. Everything Maiden, Anthrax and Ozzy. Mozart to start my day
thelonegoldfish: Have you played the Battlestar Galactica board game by Fantasy Flight? Did you play as Chief?
theaarondouglas: I have not but something I think I need to change
About_Three_Fift: Hello Aaron! When were you told that your character in BSG was infact a !!SPOILER!! cylon !!SPOILER!!? Were you surprised when you found out?
theaarondouglas: check the BSG reunion panel
Zer0Summoner: I had to convince my wife to watch BSG, but she ended up loving it, and by the end she decided you are her celebrity cheat. So my question is, if I were going to make any of your female costars my celebrity cheat, who would you recommend?
theaarondouglas: Doc Cottle
rich115: What trait or moment of the show would you say was pivotal in it being a great tv show?
theaarondouglas: Ron’s vision. David’s steering. Michael Rymer’s directing. All of the writers My boy Mark Verheiden
mikegus15: Whats your favorite quote related to Battlestar Galactica and why is it, “Bears, beats, Battlestar Galactica.”?
theaarondouglas: Do you watch Battlestar Galactica? No Then you are an idiot.
illiniman14: BSG was at the forefront of the writers strike with the webisodes it produced – how do you feel the strike affected the show (if at all), or did it just delay the story that was going to be told eventually?
theaarondouglas: If the strike had lasted a little longer the show would’ve ended on the burned out nuked earth…. How’s that for an ending?
TrixieVanSickle: one more from me: What’s your favorite thing to eat when you’re in NYC?
theaarondouglas: Anything Italian
NDaveT: BSG had so many great actors. I’m just going to ask about one of them: what was it like working with Edward James Olmos? How many Miami Vice jokes did he have to put up with?
theaarondouglas: None really but Eddie did have great stories from Vice. Working with him is a master class in acting, being a pro and being good to people on set.
Vaguswarrior: Hey Aaron, thanks for doing this, whacky question, if you had to replace the cast of The Bridge with the cast of BSG who would play who? Absolutely loved you in both roles, but The Bridge really was great, the parallel of The Chief being in the military to running a union on New Caprica then the similar development for Frank Leo was pretty awesome to watch.
theaarondouglas: I think a solid cop squad would be Tahmoh Katee Aleks Alessandro Grace
–_l: Question: What kind of bear is best?
theaarondouglas: That’s a ridiculous question
shivan21: Hi Aaron, are you a DIY man?
theaarondouglas: Very much so. I love to tinker
watchitbub: Every show that films in Vancouver features obligatory scenes of actors running through a forest. As a Vancouver actor how many times have YOU been filmed running through a forest? Any tips for new actors running through a forest for the first time?
theaarondouglas: pick up your feet and watch out for bears
itimetravelwell: Did not know the Chief was a fellow Canuck! What’s the most Canadian thing about you that others might not know?
theaarondouglas: I know how to order at Tim’s
seismicor: Are you a fan of the original Battlestar Galactica? What do you think that the original TV series managed to do better than the new version?
theaarondouglas: Loved it as a kid. It was Star Wars on TV every week. You simply couldn’t do what we did on TV in the 70’s. But if they were making it today I have no doubt it would be cool.
shivan21: What instructions in BSG did you get concerning your acting? Was there anything in them that could explain the great naturalistic style of BSG?
theaarondouglas: Nothing. I remember asking Michael Rymer about that well into shooting. I said, “None of the directors talk to me. What am I doing wrong?” He said, “Nothing. You are giving them exactly what they want. Don’t stop.”
serveux: Can we get some more videos with you and u/mistersavage just shooting the shit and building models? That video was super chill and fun.
theaarondouglas: YES YES YES YES. please….
mistersavage: YES! Would love that.
TheseWereThePlaces: Should the Canucks trade the Sedins? Both, or just one? If one, which one?
theaarondouglas: No. Let them play out the year and give them something upstairs. My opnion.
mega512: any weird reactions from fans when they found out you were one of the final five? My wife was personally devastated. Lol.
theaarondouglas: Literally every emotion and response available.
magylo: Was Chief the origin of Santa? as in, Chief makes things very well, created a race of beings, had a traumatic estrangement with a child, desired to live alone in the north, and like the raiders Rudolph has a red nose.
theaarondouglas: He wasn’t… Until now…… I like where your head’s at.
onlythisonecomment: Did you know everything that was planned for your character in advance or was it a surprise to learn about your plot involvements?
theaarondouglas: They broke each season as they wrote them. Ron had a vision for the overall story but each thread was developed each season.
anteru: Of all the conventions you have gone to this year so far, which one has been your favorite?
theaarondouglas: I’ve only done a few and I enjoy them all for different reasons. Personally I like the smaller fan centric cons.
seismicor: Hello. What is your opinion on the new TV series Star Trek: Discovery?
theaarondouglas: Haven’t seen it yet but I am really excited to. My friend Ted works on that show and he’s a great guy. I won’t know what to say to him if his show stinks…. HA
Ctrl5: Aaron! What’s your favorite way to eat eggs?
theaarondouglas: deliciously scrambled or poached
Scirocco-MRK1: You bring a lot of intensity to your characters. What role, no matter if it was a single episode, has been your favorite since BSG?
theaarondouglas: Gordon Rimmer
comune: Chief, just came here to say ‘good lad!’ and how’s Friday treating you?
theaarondouglas: People are lovely in Houston and here online and the bar is open so Friday is outstanding.
Enyk: Wife and I are catching Dirk Gently finally. Yes, I know, we’re a wee bit behind. So, exactly how big was the chart or how long was the explanation to everyone involved of what the fsck was going on in that show?
theaarondouglas: Max would answer any and every question we all had. I knew from the start what was going to happen. He has the whole thing in his head.
_Bobbin: I most recently saw you on Imposters and you were a real piece of work that I almost had sympathy for. Good job making me feel uneasy about that guy pretty much all the time. But my questions are:
do you prefer short appearances in tv shows or longer runs? Would you rather play an asshole or a nice guy?
theaarondouglas: I LOVE Imposters so so so much!! That was one of the best experiences making a show I have ever had in my life. I adore Adam and Paul and Inbar so much. I wish I could’ve stayed on it for years. I would prefer to be on a show long term, especially if it is great.
ZiggyNJ: How is your puppy? Can you post pics? Can I come over and play with him?
theaarondouglas: He’s awesome and amazing and crazy. I will post pics when I get home.
glorious_cheese: Viper or Raptor?
theaarondouglas: Raider
JaCoBaLlEn: Aaron, what is your all time favorite soup?
theaarondouglas: Potato and Leek
xizore: Loved you in the last season of Dirk Gently! Any chance of coming back in some capacity for the next season? What about villains do you enjoy as an actor? Was there anything you wanted to do with Gordon that didn’t quite fit?
theaarondouglas: Gordon is done. I like a grey hat villain. I like to play crazy people because they don’t know they’re crazy. They loved Gordon at first, then hated him, then loved him again so I have no idea what was going on behind the scenes. I just kept doing Gordon as I saw him and Rob fought all of the battles for me so I could make Rimmer Rimmer.
Dackers: Hey, you played my favorite character on BSG! Any behind the scenes pranks or funny bits from the show you can share?
theaarondouglas: Ask Nikki Clyne about the screw
Seanshotfirst: Chief was by far the best character on the show, thanks for doing an amazing job bringing him to life!
How was it filming the occupation story line for season 3? That was at the hight of the Iraq war insurgency, and BSG was doing what few shows were doing at the time and delivering a story from the point of view of those being occupied by a superior foreign force. Was the parallel to Iraq obvious to everyone while filming? Did it make you feel differently about what was happening in Iraq?
theaarondouglas: The impossibly great thing about our show was Ron holding a mirror up to the world and asking Do you like what you see? We had many many conversations as a cast about what we were doing. I have met so many amazing vets and the stories of Iraq and Afghanistan and watching BSG while deployed bring an indescribable feeling to my soul.
similar_observation: Hey Aaron, I loved seeing Chief Tyrol go through emotional life changes, it really stuck with me. Did you pull from any real life experiences when playing Chief Tyrol during those parts?
theaarondouglas: I had some real life stuff going on that mirrored a lot of what was going on with Chief. It didn’t take much for me to find the emotions around loss, fear, sadness and rage.
enigmical: Do you fear a robot uprising? If so, when do you think it will occur? How long will humans last? Was Stargate Universe a rip off of Battlestar Galactica?
theaarondouglas: When the robots rise up there will be nothing we can do. And I’ll be in Scotland off the grid. I didn’t see SGU
liamquane: What was it like working with Zoe Kazan?
theaarondouglas: A beautiful woman inside and out. Tremendous actor. Genuinely.
liamquane: What was it like working with Bryan Bertino on The Monster?
theaarondouglas: I really loved working with Bryan. He is one talented frakking guy. I hope to circle back sometime and do something again.
Sodonotcare: When’s the last time you’ve just gone balls out crazy and punched someone who woke you up from a sound sleep?
theaarondouglas: See Chad…..
Psyri: Hi Chief! Love BSG massively here. How did you feel about the ending, especially the cryptic/spiritual veins that got stronger as the show went on? Also, would love to know if you’re going to be around for any Cons in the UK anytime soon, I got to hug the Commander at MCM 2K14 :D
theaarondouglas: I loved our ending. I think it ended perfectly. No plans for the UK just yet but I do love going to my ancestral homeland
rusellpeter: What drew you to your role on Dirk Gently?
theaarondouglas: a cheque
liamquane: Hi Mr. Douglas. Can I ask, what is the best thing a director can do for you on set? :~) Thank you!
theaarondouglas: turn on the camera and leave me alone. Ha. Communicate That’s the most important thing
Glowisms: Pineapple on pizza?
theaarondouglas: also-frakkin-lutely. But I slice my pineapple BBQ it with a Kosher salt dusting Then core it and chop into smaller bits and onto the pizza it goes. I make awesome pizza from scratch on my BBQ
neutralpalettehotel: Hi Aaron! You were amazing in Battlestar, Stargate and made for a frightening (on screen) stalker too! Could you name an underrated film/show have you been in that you’d recommend that isn’t BSG?
theaarondouglas: A fun family movie with Kim Williams Paisley and Patrick Dempsey called Lucky 7. Imposters is great. The Bridge The CTV one. Good cop show.
FreddeCheese: What do you think about Blade Runner 2049? ps: loved the show, and you in it!
theaarondouglas: Haven’t seen it yet but cannot wait
shivan21: Do you think a spinoff of BSG could be possible?
theaarondouglas: Yes Absolutely. Yes. does that answer that?
Piggynatz: Hey dude, love your work! A ways back I met you at Pearson Airport. You were very gracious and even re-took a picture with me despite being their with your friends (they pointed out that I was geeking out a couple tables over). Thank you for that. I loved you in The Bridge. My girlfriend’s ex is a cop and he indicated that Bromell was indeed airing Toronto’s dirty laundry (he loved the show, btw). Are you able to comment on whether that was the reason the show was renewed but they ‘forgot’ to renew the actors’ contracts?
theaarondouglas: That’s not why the show went away….. I wish it hadn’t. Tried everything I could to keep it alive and we did for a short time but then the Network had to move on to other things.
shivan21: Have you played BSG: The Board Game?
theaarondouglas: not yet
fatfrost: Loved you in BSG but duala was my favorite. I was very sad when she shot herself. How did you guys process that scene emotionally?
theaarondouglas: I forgot that it was in that ep and I fell out of my chair when she did that. Kandyse is not just cast mate but a very close friend of mine. Love that girl. Kandyse and I would sit in my trailer between set ups and watch Family Guy and when she was suddenly not there anymore it sucked…
respectthet: Hi Aaron! You were, by far, my favorite character on BSG. Are you aware of your striking resemblance to current Chicago Cubs, and former Detroit Tigers catcher Alex Avila?
theaarondouglas: HA I have been told that before. Also Young Orson Welles Young Brian Dennehy Donny Osmand…. Don’t care for this one as much… haha A photo negative of Sinbad the comic.
the_harveyexperience: Have you ever had the full Harvey Weinstein experience?
theaarondouglas: Thankfully no
PornoPaul: I literally thought you played Amos on the Expanse the first time I saw BSG. Has anyone else ever gotten that mixed up? Please say yes so I don’t feel like a total ass. Also, I really enjoy watching the transformation your character has undertaken (halfway through season 4 of bsg) , do you have any other upcoming projects? Yes to both questions is totally acceptable
theaarondouglas: I have gotten that a few times. Handsome devil…. There are things coming up, just can’t talk about them yet. Code for unemployed actor….
Khadaji1028: Hello Aaron. First off, Thank you for being a major part in out of the best Sci Fi shows of all time. In your experience on the show, How much secrecy was on the set as far as the plot went? Did every one know what was going on or did they make it a point to keep everyone somewhat in the dark? Also, With some of the plot twist in the show, did that cause additional mental wear and tear? Or was everyone able to slide into and out of character fairly easy?
theaarondouglas: They shared info if you asked but we all also knew we were making something special and with that it’s important to keep things secret. I can pop into Chief even now. I put on the BDU’s or even the boots and I feel like him.
Pharius: Chief, I’m rewatching the series right now. How long did it take to grow that sweet beard on new caprica and why did they make you shave it off? I get why Adama lost the Stache, but that beard was glorious and necessary.
theaarondouglas: I grew it on our hiatus and when I returned for season 3 Ron saw it and asked if it was real. Of course. Can you keep it for a few eps? Of course again.
I loved it.
UberSpazz: After acting for so long, who would you say are some of the coolest people you got to meet?
theaarondouglas: Hugh Jackman, Wil Smith, Everyone from BSG, Adam Savage, Anthrax, Mikey Dolenz. On and on and on
noobwithboobs: Hi Chief! Has anyone ever pointed out to you that if you put on goggles and a hard hat you’re practically the human embodiment of The Engineer from Team Fortress 2? When BSG was first airing my entire household was playing a lot of TF2, and watching BSG together every week, and we couldn’t help but notice a resemblance.
theaarondouglas: no one has said that to me. but I will check that out.
criscothediscoman: Have you seen any of Star Trek: Discovery? It feels like BSG in its tone.
theaarondouglas: Not yet but looking forward to it.
puigcaro: Hey Aaron! Hope you see this. thank you for doing this AMA, BSG is one of my favorite shows and I love the fact that the actors are so in love with the story and not only don’t mind talking about it with fans.. but enjoy it too! Is there anything you’re working on right now that we should look out for? A pet project perhaps? Thanks and love all the way from Uruguay!
theaarondouglas: There are some things I am writing and I am really excited to see them come out for the world to see. We all just have to wait a bit.
throwawayyyyyyyy888: Hey Mr Douglas you have a great diverse body of work. You played two different characters on Stargate SG1. How does that work you do 1 role and they are impressed with you so they bring you back for a second? Don’t fans get confused you play two different characters on one show?
theaarondouglas: There are only so many actors in Vancouver so some shows recycle us. HA
SAMCRO172: Hi Aaron! BSG is my absolute favorite show of all time! I was giddy when I saw Michael Hogan on 12 Monkeys, any chance I’ll see you show up in a space opera soon. Star Trek Discovery or the Expanse maybe?
theaarondouglas: I sure hope so. I would hop a plane in a second.
heff66: Just loved your work as Rimmer in Dirk Gently. The rant you do at the end of Episode 6 is just an amazing piece of acting and writing. My question is did the writers and directors explain the whole plot to you by that point, or were you still in the dark like the rest of us?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dke-Y-xo-sM
theaarondouglas: Max shared everything with us so we knew where it was going which helped us all track everything… sort of…
comer93: Aaron, loved your character in the show. What was the most difficult scene that you had to shoot during BSG?
theaarondouglas: Socinus death Boomer death Chief finds the empty house. All the death and loss stuff
ifiwereabravo: I loved your role in Dirk Gently’s holistic detective agency. Are you involved in any more quirky shows like that that are coming out? If so what can we look forward to seeing with you in it?
theaarondouglas: No but I do need more quirky in my life.
ThePorjaxian: What made you decide that acting was your thing? How did you roll into it?
theaarondouglas: It’s the only thing people would hire me to do. I have no other skills…..
klgdmfr: I am literally 11 episodes into your series. What can I expect, without giving away any spoilers? I’ll read your response and bookmark the AMA and going to binge the series over the weekend. Doubt I’ll finish it, but so looking forward to reading this AMA when I’m done!!!
theaarondouglas: Oh man…. you have hours and hours of awesome coming at you. Just go into it. Expect nothing but surprises
KnightFartorias: My dad and I watch BSG together, and that show gave us something great to bond over. What other actor in BSG did you become the closest with and what is your favorite moment with him/her?
theaarondouglas: Hogan and Trucco and Clyne. I have so many great memories with all of them
Xizorfalleen: What is your favourite track from the BSG OST?
theaarondouglas: Tyrol’s theme of course
Slanderpanic: I just rewatched The Plan yesterday. Did Edward James Olmos give you any ribbing over smooching his wife?
theaarondouglas: No, but he gave it to her for getting to smooch me…
Nyxceris: I didnt peg you as a metal fan until i just saw your imdb picture wearing an Anthrax shirt. What are some of your other favourite bands?
theaarondouglas: I grew up listening to everything but our dressing room was filled with Metal. Sabbath Meatloaf Iron Maiden Anthrax AC/DC. so many more. Hairbands when one of the jackasses got a hold of the ghetto blaster
WangtorioJackson: Would you ever consider guest starring on the current SyFy show The Expanse as Amos’ brother? I seriously think you two look so much alike it’s almost scary.
theaarondouglas: short answer? abso-frakkin-lutely
soullessredhead: Did Ronald Moore really have a lot of the “Final Five” stuff planned out from the beginning (especially with Ellen Tigh), or was he just kind of flying by the seat of his pants. Also, was the Chief supposed to be Bob Dylan or something? I think I remember him mentioning that he wrote All Along the Watchtower, and that’s why the Final Five kept hearing it. It’s been a long time since I’ve watched the series though, I’ve been meaning to do it again.
theaarondouglas: That’s a Ron question but from what I know Ron had the general idea of what he wanted to do with the show but allowed other voices to mould and shape the entirety of the arc and storylines. His openness is one of his many many great traits. Just the best guy to work with.
AMA_ABOUT_MY_WRITING: To this day, the scene leading to and including the revelation of the final five is my favourtie piece of television. How did you feel when you found out you were a no good frakkin’ toaster?
theaarondouglas: check out the BSG reunion panel at SDCC this year. The whole story is there and it’s a fun one.
cmchu: Hi Aaron! Loved you in BSG obviously, but I was blown away watching Dirk Gently and slowly realizing that brilliant madman was you. So I have to ask a non-BSG question. Was your performance as Gordon Rimmer in Dirk Gently at all inspired by the character of Mr. Plinkett from the RedLetterMedia Plinkett movie reviews? It took me so long to recognize you because I was thrown by the uncanny likeness in the voice. Great work either way!
theaarondouglas: I’ve had this question before and the answer is no. I had never heard of Mr. Plinkett until the show aired and someone directed me to it and asked this.
AlphaBish101015: Was there any action that you wised your character had taken, but didn’t? Anything you’re especially proud of the Chief for doing? I’m currently re-watching for the first time in years, so this thread has me super pumped.
theaarondouglas: I’d like to say yes but that would change so much of the story. I really am pleased with the way the entirety of Chief played out. I am proud that Chief told them all to go to hell and went away on his own.
Litdown: How much do you love the pattulo bridge?
theaarondouglas: I never ever never ever take it.
ThirdFloorNorth: CHIEF! Holy shit, no matter what I see you in, you’re always “Chief”. I was wondering if you could weigh in on a personal favorite fan theory that Moore openly came out against. What do you think about the dead Cylon model, Daniel, being Starbuck’s father? They were both artistic, it would explain how she inherently knew the song, and would explain a lot of the weirdness surrounding the character.
theaarondouglas: I can’t see how that makes sense. I would agree with Ron.
LivingInTheVoid: Bears or Beets?
theaarondouglas: Bears. Always bears
Enigmatic_Penguin: Did you and Olmos trade any actual blows during your boxing match? If so, how hard can be Admiral actually hit?
theaarondouglas: We beat the hell out of each other. I have told that story at panels before. I bet you could find video of it somewhere. It’s a good story. He’s a tough bugger.
kieko: Chief! BSG is hands down one of the best shows I’ve ever seen, and the episode 33 was an absolute mastery. What is the longest you’ve gone without sleep?
theaarondouglas: oh man….. few days at least.
mrdude817: Chief! I only just watched BSG for the first time this year and finished it last month! What a wild ride it was! Anyway, what’s one thing on your bucket list that you wanna fulfill soon (like riding a motorcylce across/around Canada)?
theaarondouglas: African Safari. Cage dive with Great Whites
DeadRat88:
Hello sir. In regards to Dirk Gently, how great was it to end up in another cult classic tv show? Did you know it was going to be a hit right away?
theaarondouglas: I think Dirk Gently turned out really really well. Wish I could’ve stayed for a few years but on to other things. I hope season 2 is as great.
sanpilou: Hey, my favorite fixer and NOT the pizza guy! Loved Jordi in Watch_Dogs and Watch_Dogs 2. I was the character rigger who made him come alive in WD2 and I think he was my favorite to work on. Really wish they could have gotten you to come on site to do the motion capture, I would have LOVED to be able to shake your hand. What was your favorite line from the character of Jordi? I think I have a pretty good guess, but I’m really curious!
theaarondouglas: Oh man I love playing Jordi… I really hope there is more to come. Favourite line? So many… It’s great fun writing and they let me ad-lib some too so some lines are mine and some are theirs. I like the pizza guy scene but also the sticky bomb scene. Both still make me laugh.
qmechan: Was that you in Dirk Gently? Because that was amazing work. I don’t know how you’ll top that but I’m excited to watch you try.
theaarondouglas: yes it was. and thank you
03mark87: Thanks for doing this AMA! Who would ACTUALLY win in the boxing ring? You, or the old man?
theaarondouglas: Eddie…. He’s dirty
PradleyBitts: Man I just wanna day that BSG is my all time favorite show. The adventure, the life questions, the great characters, the intrigue, the parallel to current events, and the whole spiritual/exploring the origin of humanity aspects of it make it so good. What is your theory on what the fleet did after landing on Earth? How did they assimilate without bringing any of their tech or knowledge with them? Was it really logical for them to give up all their technology?
theaarondouglas: From my side it totally made sense for them to move on without the tech. It had caused so much damage. Chief went off alone so I don’t know what the rest of those dicks ended up doing…. ;-)
this_very_boutique: I’m always late to these things. :( Hey Aaron, what’s it gonna be like this year for the Canucks?
theaarondouglas: The Leafs 3 years ago.
SchroedingersSphere: In your interpretation of the ending (because “all of this has happened before and all of this will happen again), is OUR earth the dead planet found halfway through the series, or the one in the finale?
theaarondouglas: or are they the same earth?
billcozby: Why are you so good at yelling?
theaarondouglas: practice practice practice
SchroedingersSphere: What were yours and your crew mates’ thoughts on the final stretch of episodes and what direction the ending took? Thanks for being a part of one of the best modern-day sci-fi series!
theaarondouglas: We were all sad to see it coming to an end but for the most part I think we all loved the way it played out.
fraud_imposter: Why did you drop the vocal stuff you were doing for that one rant in Dirk gently? You almost sold me on that voice and I wanted to hear how you used it to still be threatening and terrifying but you just ditched that vocal work entirely for that scene and just went into a bassy register and I’m curious what motivated that choice. Nice work though! I enjoy you as an actor.
theaarondouglas: direction from producers and director. that’s all.
03mark87: Hey Chief, I loved BSG and recently forced my wife to watch it too. As long as we’re talking about wives, did you really think Cally had beady eyes and smelled like boiled cabbage, or were you just venting?
theaarondouglas: pure venting. out of sadness and rage
Milfshake23: How did Chief manage to gain weight while the rest of the ship was more or less starving? I kid I kid, thats not my question. I have watched every season 6 times over and I’m a huge fan. How did you react to the ending and how did you feel being part of such an amazing series?
theaarondouglas: Chief had a still. Tons of calories in a still. I love the ending and I remain hugely proud of the show and honoured to have been a small part.
RideFarmSwing: If there was a magic wizard who could turn you into the real chief at the end of the series on Earth… Would you take the adventure? Not that I’m a magic wizard or anything…
theaarondouglas: oh yes…. for sure. and I’d bring all my friends if they’d like
UncleDan2017: Did you ever end up saying Frak in your real life when you were filming BG?
theaarondouglas: Was alone in my kitchen one day. Dropped a pot on my foot. FRAK!!! Almost broke my neck spinning my head around to see if anyone saw or heard me……..
RuthlessNate56: Mr. Douglas, always loved you in BSG but you were almost unrecognizable at first in Dirk Gently! I saw your name in the credits of the first episode but didn’t spot your blink-and-you-miss-it first appearance. Then when you finally spoke I had to do a double-take just to make sure it was you. When prepping for that role, what inspired Gordon Rimmer’s weird accent you used? I got the sense that Gordon’s enunciation became clearer after he burned all his Lux Dujour paraphernalia. Was that intentional?
theaarondouglas: I read the script and realized that
1. This show is fantastically weird and that the characters should be as well. Grounded in as much reality as possible but with a little weirdness.
2. I decided I wanted strange hair, a walk, a speech, 80’s creepo glasses.
3. Presented the walk and talk to producers on day one and Max and Dean Parisot said “We love it!”
4. Lux is still Lux but he’s trapped in that body but as Lux emerged more and more as the season went on I wanted him to come through Gordon and override him more and more. So that’s why Gordon would drop the voice and stand up straight sometimes, just a little and only for short bursts. Flashes of the Lux.
Last_Lorien: Hi Chief!! Just a few days ago I couldn’t sleep and of course ended up rewatching random episodes of BSG… I discovered the series for the first time last year, I didn’t binge-watch like I usually do because I wanted to savour every minute of it, and I really really did. I love epic and scifi and this is possibly the best combination of both that I know. Thank you for being such a stellar part of it! I love your moments with Gaius, like when you confront him in his prison cell. What was James Callis like to work with? Did you like the way his character ended up?
theaarondouglas: There are few people in this world that I adore and love more than James Callis. He’s an amazing actor, husband, friend, father, human. I love to hate to love Baltar. He was amazing. I couldn’t have pulled that off.
UncleDan2017: So, what was the Cylon’s plan, or was it just to make half-toaster babies by getting knocked up by your character or helo?
theaarondouglas: No one got pregnant by Chief. Too much time spent in the warp core….. wait… is that the right show?
zzzuluz: Are you bit of a techie in your non-acting life? Do you like to tinker with stuff?
theaarondouglas: not techie at all but I love to tinker. I can go to the garage and tinker an entire day away. To some it may look like I’m doing nothing and drinking beers but to the trained eye I am doing nothing and drinking beers.
Nestorow: Hey Aaron, As a huuuge Battlestar fan, got the tattoo to prove it, I have to admit it took me way too long tp realise you where in Dirl Gently (about ep 5 I think). Was there any point in Dirk that really made your think back to Battlestar or The Chief?
theaarondouglas: When I wore a BSG shirt to set and the director laughed and said, “only you could pull off wearing yourself”
FishVirginia: Is Dwight Schrute a true fan?
theaarondouglas: Dwight is but I don’t know if Rainn is. I’m surely a big fan of his. Very talented man.
Birddawg65: Hey Chief! I saw you at a Brad paisley concert a few years back. I yelled out, “Chief Tyrol!!!” You came over and introduced yourself and took a picture with me. Good times! What’d you have for breakfast this morning?
theaarondouglas: glass of scotch piece of asphalt 17 ciggies, eaten not smoked
WolfPerception: Chief! I have seen you pop up in many shows since BSG and I’m pretty effin ecstatic for you. What are your top 5 bands to get you hyped? What was the best concert you’ve been to? P.S. If I had known you were in Houston, I would have helped you eat some food that will blow your mind. I hope you enjoy it here. This place is in need of some good things since the Hurricane. If you get a chance, please see if someone will get you some food from Gatlins BBQ off of Ella. I’m right next to it, and would gladly bring you some. It’s one of the top 50 in Texas.
theaarondouglas: Iron Maiden Metallica Anthrax Motorhead Judas Priest. Best concert-Bruce Springsteen Most fun concert-Steel Panther Most punch you in the face rock out-Anthrax
wrathmont: Hey, recently relistened for the 2,974th time the episode of the Ricky Gervais Podcast where you wrote in. How’d you get into them?
theaarondouglas: Honestly don’t remember but still laugh at Karl’s diary.
RobertThorn2022: How much Adama is Edward James Olmos?
theaarondouglas: pretty damn close.
Riddla26: Ah damn, I guess I missed it. I just wanted to ask when your good self and Adam Savage going to quit the foreplay and team up to do more model building videos with you and Adam as regular hosts and a 3rd guest celebrity builder each episode on Tested? ‘Cause bro, that is a bomb idea if I say so myself. This video of you doing exactly that has 1.2 million views on it’s own and it is awesome. The models are great, the planning is great, the building is great, the painting is amazing, the conversation flows easily and is massively entertaining, they’re not afraid to just have the sounds that are there present, it’s not over edited to focus on the jokes or the stories. It’s like two mates that just happen to have amazing lives and meet amazing people spending an afternoon. I reckon an easy 5 million people on YouTube would be all over that forever.
theaarondouglas: I don’t know who you are but….. FRAK YES!!!! Someone listen to this person. I would do this in a heartbeat.
Cheesysplattyburrito: I saw you in Save On in Victoria one day but you were just shopping and I didn’t want to bother you. Even though I loved BSG more than anything. Do you ever get annoyed by fan(atic)s?
theaarondouglas: Never! Always say hi.
Reaper7412: Do you think that Wes Chatam looks like you? http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1434871/
theaarondouglas: He’s FAR too handsome.
Acanthophis: Did you enjoy killing Tori? ;)
theaarondouglas: I like the story piece of it but bristle at the violence of it, especially man vs woman. But Tory needed a comeuppance, death is the role the writers chose. To be fair though, grabbing her and ending her life was my idea. Written it was I bump her and she accidentally falls to her death below. I think taking the route of having Chief do it allowed him to have the straw that broke moment and then he could just leave them all behind.
IAMA_Drunk_Armadillo: Were you familiar with the Flash and Arrowverse prior to taking the role of the Turtle?
theaarondouglas: I am. All of those shows shoot in Vancouver and I have read for them several times. Just happy I got Turtle even if it precludes me from the other shows.
deadpa: Heya Aaron, This is the “brain tumor guy” you met in Houston courtesy of a mutual scientist friend by the name Paul. I met Mark Verheiden the following year and he texted you asking if you remembered me… I was curious as to how much you knew about the Dirk Gently story arc when you signed up… did you know the overreaching plot arc or were you simply learning what was going to happen as you read the script before filming? Also… when the U.S. implodes – can I crash at your place for a few nights if I can make it across the wasteland? cheers and welcome to reddit!
theaarondouglas: HEY!!! How are you? I knew what was generally happening through the end of the season.
furnatic: Crazily enough, the way you portray Chief isn’t super far from how the USN works. How did you work your way up to the role, get into character?
theaarondouglas: My favourite comment is ‘you’re just like a Chief I have or am serving with.’ Getting the military right was so very important to all of us. We had tech advisors we could seek out for advice. Ron and David set it up so well for us to succeed.
91236008615238976: I really enjoyed BSG even though the writers strike pretty much fucked over the series, would you have been willing to take a pay cut to satisfy the creative talent behind the scenes?
theaarondouglas: We supported our writers 100% and we all went out and stopped getting cheques so they could stay unified and get a better deal. I’m pleased they did as they are the reason the show was so good.
MsAnnThrope: Hi Aaron! I really, really love your work. I met you once at Emerald City Comicon in Seattle. You signed a picture of you and Wil Wheaton for me (the one where he’s wearing a hockey jersey and looking all sad). I had him sign it the next time I saw him at a con; he thought it was funny and took a picture of it. My question is, did he ever send a picture of it to you like he said he would? Thank you for being here, and I hope you have a lovely day!
theaarondouglas: yes he did. Wil follows through on things he says he’ll do.
circular_file3000: Why do you have two first names? Anthrax rules! \m/
theaarondouglas: I blame my mom
dceighty8: Hey! What’s your favorite memory from living in creston? Least favorite? Do you ever go back?
theaarondouglas: Riding my dirt bike around the fields. The cold. I haven’t been in a long time.
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theaarondouglas: Oh I am well aware that I am a bear… Hey, I rhymed… I think it is incredibly flattering and I live in the fullest of knowledge that we bears are sexy as frak!
sparkle_dick: Chief! Loved every minute of your performance in BSG, I think Galen was who many of us saw ourselves in the most. Especially loved getting to see you as Turtle on The Flash last year, sorry about the brain sucking :/ Do you still play hockey? Always liked to imagine you and a bunch of the pilots/crew freezing the hangar floors and skating around :D
theaarondouglas: I do but haven’t in a few months. Got a bad shoulder right now but am rehabbing and hope be back soon. Everytime I walk into a stage I always think, we could freeze this floor and go for a wheel….
JustALuckyShot: Your first and last name are my first and middle name, and that bothers me. Since this is an AMA, I have to ask a question. Who are you, and what do you want with my name?
theaarondouglas: To blame everything on you….
Jpoyner2: Who even r u?
theaarondouglas: I really have no idea.
GeodudeRocks790: Thanks for making me feel like a star! In 2014 you came to Salt Lake Comic Con. I was cosplaying as the Black Knight from Monty Python and you came rushing out of your meet-n-greet both to snap a photo with me. It feels pretty special to say that an actor wanted their picture to be taken with me. Thank you for that awesome experience. What’s your favorite Monty Python skit/movie?
theaarondouglas: Oh I remember that costume! You looked so great. Holy Grail for sure. Twit Olympics
Cant_stop-Wont_stop: Hey Chief, I’m a fighter aircraft maintainer. Thanks for making maintenance respected and badass. Every show with aircraft and fighter pilots always glamorizes them and completely glosses over the hard work that gets put in to make those pieces of shit fly. What was Edward James Olmos like off-camera? He always had such a fatherhood role in the show and he so easily dominated that role and completely oozes charisma, sitting down for a glass of whisky and a cigar with him sounds like exactly how he spends his time.
theaarondouglas: You have one badass job. Thank you for your service.
Mr_Celsius: I love that you had an email read on the Ricky Gervais podcast. Are you still a fan, and have you seen Karl Pilkington’s TV shows?
theaarondouglas: Those podcasts kept me laughing for a long time. Still do. I have not seen his shows…. yet…
thrashmtlfan: Hey Aaron, I’m such a huge fan of you, the Chief, and BSG. Whenever I’m having a hard time, I’ll try to get through a season and I’ll feel so much better. It’s always been my comfort show.
I notice you’re a fellow thrash metal fan too like me. Other than Anthrax, what other metal bands do you like?
theaarondouglas: That list is huge. Pick a band from 70’s and 80’s and they’re probably on my list.
in_my_atmosphere: How many times in your life has someone said “Bears. Beets. Battlestar Galactica.” to you?
theaarondouglas: Too many to count
shylowheniwasyoung: Greetings, Chief! I loved BSG, and I’m trying to convince my new husband to watch it with me- our first dates were spent watching sci-fi :) I’m from the San Juan Islands area, so my question is: where in the greater PNW is your favorite getaway or place to visit?
theaarondouglas: Tofino and QCL up in Haida Gwaii
Imjeffreydammit: Will there be a season two of Dirk Gently? How can I convince my local Drive In Theater to let me stream all of Battlestar Galactica for a few nights?
theaarondouglas: There is a season 2. They just finished filming and I cannot wait to see it. There are still Drive In’s around?
geekisphere: Do I have a question? I actually just wanted to say how great it was of you to show up at that tavern and hang out when last year’s Galacticon debacle happened in Seattle. I loved your work in BSG, and knowing that you’re in Dirk Gently gives me a reason to check it out! You are one cool dude – Cheers!
theaarondouglas: Thank you. That was a ton of fun. My friend Michelle worked her ass off to make that #FindChief event incredible. Rumour is she’s working on more ideas so stay tuned. I love Seattle
grumblecaking: I’ve lived under a rock my whole life. Two weeks ago I started watching BSG and it has easily become my favorite show of all time. I absolutely love Chief. I love his perseverance and honesty in spite of the rough hand he is always dealt. So many feels! I’m so late to the party, but it’s all I can talk about! I can’t wait to watch your other performances next! Thank you for doing this AMA! <3 What's your favorite cocktail?
theaarondouglas: Thank you. There are a few performances I am really proud of and some shows that are worth watching for sure. Fav cocktail…. Now this is a fun list to type. Hoppy IPA for beer Belvedere up with a twist- simple I know but delish Smoked Manhattan from Bar Chef in Toronto Vesper Martini from Opus in Toronto Scratch Margarita from my kitchen by me Nice heavy Cab Sauv. Old World Rioja Gin and tonic with Muddled cucumber My take on an old fashioned A super chilled Moscato on a hot deck
vijeno: What do you think of the last season of BSG?
theaarondouglas: I loved the way it ended. I think winding up where we did, losing who we did and especially the ending for Chief worked well for me. I wish we had more time to explore some of things that were just spoken but we were running out of eps.
ThisIsMarklar: Evening mate. What do you reckon to the new Maiden album?
theaarondouglas: Honestly gutted that I haven’t had a listen yet. My bad and something that will be rectified soon. what do you think of it?
vijeno: Well and to be fair, how about the FIRST season of BSG?
theaarondouglas: Needed more Chief… ;-) But 33 is one of the best episodes of TV ever.
kitikitish: What’s for dinner?
theaarondouglas: Not a clue. Someone is taking me somewhere but they haven’t said….. Is it a trap?
phyrestorm999: Hey, thanks for doing this. Chief was my favorite male BSG character. I’m sure you’re well aware that many fans were disappointed and/or annoyed by how the series was (or wasn’t really) resolved. What did you think at the time, and what do you think now?
theaarondouglas: I did and still do like the way Ron finished the show. I just mostly like my ending. ha
Tannekr: I’m sad to report I haven’t been able to sing “Total Eclipse of the Heart” for Jennifer Halley yet. It’s still on my bucket list. Do you still annoy her with it and “Bad Day” whenever you meet?
theaarondouglas: HAHAHA Yes to both. Everyone needs to do this to her.
in-a-darkened-room: Did you steal anything from the Dirk Gently set? Like the fluffy jacket maybe, that looked good on you, though I’m a vegetarian too so if it was real yak I wouldn’t want to touch it.
theaarondouglas: I did not get anything from Dirk unfortunately. Maybe a pair of glasses but ….. you didn’t hear that from me. I WISH I could’ve gotten the jacket. I did make some cool M.O.M. shirts for Mike, Christian, Elijah and Sam. Have a few extra I am going to auction off for charity soon.
Oudeis16: What happened with the actor who played Billy?
theaarondouglas: He was too handsome for the show so he went to do his own handsome man show. His name is Paul Campbell and he works all the time. All around great guy. Hilarious as hell. We had Mary crying one day she was laughing so hard. We had to pause on a few takes because we couldn’t get it together. Then she yelled at us…..
mccoysuper: Can ask anything?
theaarondouglas: you just did
DerringerHK: You were the bomb in Dirk Gently, yo. Would you be excited for more Ricky Gervais Show stuff? I know you’re a big fan and you sent a letter in which was read out on air. I know I’d love the guys to do more stuff together
theaarondouglas: Thank you. I think Ricky is one of the most talented guys on the planet and I will watch/listen to anything he does, especially if it’s with Stephen and Karl.