Just four months after Amazon pulled the plug on its planned Stargate reboot, the franchise is enjoying a remarkable revival on streaming platforms. The decision to cancel the project, which was reportedly too focused on existing fans, now looks increasingly questionable as Stargate: Atlantis dominates the charts on MGM+.
The Stargate universe began with the 1994 film directed by Roland Emmerich and written by Dean Devlin. It introduced audiences to an ancient alien device discovered in Egypt, which allowed a team to travel to a distant world ruled by false gods. The movie's success spawned a sprawling television franchise that has collectively aired over 350 episodes.
Currently, Stargate: Atlantis, the second spin-off series, is the most-watched show on MGM+. The series, which ran for five seasons and 100 episodes from 2004 to 2009, has found a new audience on the streaming service. It's not alone—Stargate Universe sits at #5, and the original Stargate: SG-1 follows closely at #6. This resurgence suggests that the franchise's fanbase remains active and engaged, even after years of dormancy.
The cancellation of the reboot earlier this year was a blow to fans who had hoped for a new chapter. The project had been in development with several veterans of the original series attached, but Amazon reportedly felt it was too niche. However, the current streaming numbers tell a different story, indicating that there is still a strong appetite for Stargate content.
For those unfamiliar with Stargate: Atlantis, the series follows a team that discovers an Antarctic outpost built by the Ancients, leading them to the legendary lost city of Atlantis on a distant world. The show introduced memorable characters, including the warrior Ronon Dex, played by Jason Momoa, who has since become a major star.
The success of Stargate on MGM+ is part of a broader trend of classic sci-fi series finding new life on streaming platforms. Similar to how Tim Curry's Rocky Horror Picture Show surged on Amazon after his passing, these older titles are proving their enduring appeal. The Stargate franchise, with its rich mythology and dedicated fanbase, is a prime example.
As fans continue to binge Stargate: Atlantis and other series in the franchise, the question remains: will Amazon reconsider its decision? The streaming numbers are hard to ignore, and the franchise's resilience suggests that there is still a future for Stargate on screen. For now, viewers can enjoy the classic adventures on MGM+ and hope that the powers that be take notice.
