Imperious Leader - Revision history

Joe Beaudoin Jr. at 00:51, 21 September 2025

2025-09-21T00:51:21Z

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	{{disline\|This article discusses the [[Original Series]] [[Cylons (TOS)\|Cylon]] commander. For information on the collective commanders aboard [[Basestar (RDM)\|basestars]] of the [[Re-imagined Series]], see [[Basestar command]].}}		{{disline\|This article discusses the [[Original Series]] [[Cylons (TOS)\|Cylon]] commander. For information on the collective commanders aboard [[Basestar (RDM)\|basestars]] of the [[Re-imagined Series]], see [[Basestar command]].}}


	{{Character Data		{{Character Data
	\| series=TOS		\|sepcon title=Imperious Leader (alternate)\| series=TOS
	\|photo= ImperiousLeader.jpg		\|photo= ImperiousLeader.jpg
	\|seen=Saga of a Star World		\|seen=Saga of a Star World
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	\|sepcon=y		\|sepcon=y
	}}		}}

	The '''Imperious Leader''' is the highest authority of the [[Cylon Empire]]. There is only one Imperious Leader, although there are others to replace it should the Cylon succumb to destruction. Typically, their potential replacements are called [[IL-series]] Cylons, and are typically the politicians or [[Wikipedia:viceroys\|viceroys]] of the Cylon Empire.		The '''Imperious Leader''' is the highest authority of the [[Cylon Empire]]. There is only one Imperious Leader, although there are others to replace it should the Cylon succumb to destruction. Typically, their potential replacements are called [[IL-series]] Cylons, and are typically the politicians or [[Wikipedia:viceroys\|viceroys]] of the Cylon Empire.

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	[[File:ImperiousVisit.jpg\|thumb\|right\|The Imperious Leader visits Gamoray.]]		[[File:ImperiousVisit.jpg\|thumb\|right\|The Imperious Leader visits Gamoray.]]

	The Imperious Leader strikes a bargain with {{TOS\|Baltar}}, allowing the Cylons to take control of [[The Twelve Colonies of Man\|the Twelve Colonies]] but leaving Baltar's colony alone (with Baltar in command). When the [[Battle of Cimtar\|plan comes to fruition]], the Imperious Leader reneges on the bargain and destroys Baltar's colony as well. Baltar is thanked and sentenced to public execution. The Imperious Leader is present at the [[Battle of Carillon]] and is killed when his [[Basestar (TOS)\|basestar]] is too close to the planet [[Carillon]] when the planet explodes {{OS\|Saga of a Star World}}.		The Imperious Leader strikes a bargain with {{TOS\|Baltar}}, allowing the Cylons to take control of [[The Twelve Colonies of Man\|the Twelve Colonies]] but leaving Baltar's colony alone (with Baltar in command). When the [[Battle of Cimtar\|plan comes to fruition]], the Imperious Leader reneges on the bargain and destroys Baltar's colony as well. Baltar is thanked and sentenced to public execution. The Imperious Leader is present at the [[Battle of Carillon]] and is killed when his [[Basestar (TOS)\|basestar]] is too close to the planet [[Carillon]] when the planet explodes {{OS\|Saga of a Star World}}.

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	The Imperious Leader is last seen visiting the planet [[Gamoray]], where he dedicates a Cylon cultural center. The Imperious Leader is present at the Cylon compound when a commando unit disables the planetary defense systems, allowing {{TOS\|Viper}}s to attack freely. It is unknown whether this Imperious Leader survives the [[Battle of Gamoray]] {{OS\|The Living Legend, Part II}}.		The Imperious Leader is last seen visiting the planet [[Gamoray]], where he dedicates a Cylon cultural center. The Imperious Leader is present at the Cylon compound when a commando unit disables the planetary defense systems, allowing {{TOS\|Viper}}s to attack freely. It is unknown whether this Imperious Leader survives the [[Battle of Gamoray]] {{OS\|The Living Legend, Part II}}.

	==Notes==		== Tie-in Material Information ==

			* ''According to ''[[Encyclopedia Galactica]]'' (a non-canonical piece of merchandise published in 1979):''

			: An [[IL-series\|I-L series Cylon]] known as the Imperious Leader commands the vast [[Cylon Empire]]. Although the [[Cylons (TOS)\|Cylons]] are totally obedient to commands of their leaders, the first Imperious Leader engineered the overthrow of the first reptilian Cylons. Today, of all the Cylons, only the Imperious Leader retains the reptilian form of their creators. Other I-L series Cylons treat the Leader with great respect, all secretly aspire to its role. No orderly means of succession has been developed; if a Leader shows weakness, it is replaced by whatever Cylon unit has the power to eliminate it.<ref>{{cite book\|last=Kraus\|first=Bruce\|year=1979\|title=[[Encyclopedia Galactica]]\|pages=40-41}}</ref>

			== Notes ==

	=== Character Conception and Portrayal ===		=== Character Conception and Portrayal ===

	[[File:Imperiouslizarddeleted.jpg\|thumb\|right\|The Imperious Leader]]		[[File:Imperiouslizarddeleted.jpg\|thumb\|right\|The Imperious Leader]]

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	=== Re-imagined Series Perspective ===		=== Re-imagined Series Perspective ===

	The Imperious Leader has no direct analogue in the [[Battlestar Galactica (RDM)\|Re-imagined Series]]. The Cylon hierarchy in the 2004 series is decentralized, led collectively by the various [[Humanoid Cylon\|humanoid Cylon models]] rather than a single supreme ruler.		The Imperious Leader has no direct analogue in the [[Battlestar Galactica (RDM)\|Re-imagined Series]]. The Cylon hierarchy in the 2004 series is decentralized, led collectively by the various [[Humanoid Cylon\|humanoid Cylon models]] rather than a single supreme ruler.

	=== Additional Details ===		=== Additional Details ===

	* Another Imperious Leader, with a different voice (provided by [[Dennis Haysbert]]), appears in the episode "[[Space Croppers]]" in the short-lived ''[[Galactica 1980]]''. (The sequence utilizes stock footage from the Original Series.)		* Another Imperious Leader, with a different voice (provided by [[Dennis Haysbert]]), appears in the episode "[[Space Croppers]]" in the short-lived ''[[Galactica 1980]]''. (The sequence utilizes stock footage from the Original Series.)

	==References==		== References ==

	{{reflist}}		{{reflist}}

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	[[Category:Cylons]]		[[Category:Cylons]]
	[[Category:Cylons (TOS)]]		[[Category:Cylons (TOS)]]
	~~{{indicator\|TOS}}~~[[Category:TOS]]		[[Category:TOS]]

	[[de:Erhabener Führer]]		[[de:Erhabener Führer]]

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	{{reflist}}		{{reflist}}

	{{Characters ~~(TOS)~~}}		{{Tabnav
			\| series = TOS\|Characters
			\| episode1 = Saga of a Star World
			}}

	[[Category:A to Z]]		[[Category:A to Z]]

Joe Beaudoin Jr.: defined TOS series in Character Data infobox

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defined TOS series in Character Data infobox

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	{{Character Data		{{Character Data
			\| series=TOS
	\|photo= ImperiousLeader.jpg		\|photo= ImperiousLeader.jpg
	\|seen=Saga of a Star World		\|seen=Saga of a Star World

Joe Beaudoin Jr.: Text replacement - "[[Category:TOS" to "{{indicator|TOS}}[[Category:TOS"

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	[[Category:Cylons]]		[[Category:Cylons]]
	[[Category:Cylons (TOS)]]		[[Category:Cylons (TOS)]]
	[[Category:TOS]]		{{indicator\|TOS}}[[Category:TOS]]

	[[de:Erhabener Führer]]		[[de:Erhabener Führer]]

Joe Beaudoin Jr.: /* Character Conception and Portrayal */

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Character Conception and Portrayal

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	'''''Note:''' Per this posting, Rambaldi claims otherwise, although it is not substantiated either way.''</ref> to have been designed and built by [[w:Carlo Rambaldi\|Carlo Rambaldi]], the famed creator of [[w:E.T.\|E.T.]]<ref name="sswa124"/> A deleted scene from "[[Saga of a Star World]]" offers a glimpse of this original reptilian concept, showing a non-robotic face communicating through a glass orb.		'''''Note:''' Per this posting, Rambaldi claims otherwise, although it is not substantiated either way.''</ref> to have been designed and built by [[w:Carlo Rambaldi\|Carlo Rambaldi]], the famed creator of [[w:E.T.\|E.T.]]<ref name="sswa124"/> A deleted scene from "[[Saga of a Star World]]" offers a glimpse of this original reptilian concept, showing a non-robotic face communicating through a glass orb.

	The voice of the Imperious Leader was provided by the distinguished actor [[w:Patrick Macnee\|Patrick Macnee]].<ref name="sswa125">{{cite book/sswa\|125}}</ref> Initially, producer [[Glen A. Larson]] instructed sound editor [[Peter Berkos]] to create "the most evil voice in the world." Berkos hired actor [[w:Lou Ferrigno\|Lou Ferrigno]] and mixed his deep voice with the sound of a hissing cobra. However, Larson found the result "almost too frightening" and chose to go with Macnee's performance instead.<ref name="sswa125"/> The only known evidence of this performance is in a scene that aired in 1978 on ''Good Morning America'', ~~featuring~~ an interview with [[Lorne Greene]].		The voice of the Imperious Leader was provided by the distinguished actor [[w:Patrick Macnee\|Patrick Macnee]].<ref name="sswa125">{{cite book/sswa\|125}}</ref> Initially, producer [[Glen A. Larson]] instructed sound editor [[Peter Berkos]] to create "the most evil voice in the world." Berkos hired actor [[w:Lou Ferrigno\|Lou Ferrigno]] and mixed his deep voice with the sound of a hissing cobra. However, Larson found the result "almost too frightening" and chose to go with Macnee's performance instead.<ref name="sswa125"/> The only known evidence of this performance is in a scene that aired in 1978 on ''Good Morning America'', during an interview with [[Lorne Greene]].

	{{#widget:Video\|id=uUphRIFYv\|time=598}}		{{#widget:Video\|id=uUphRIFYv\|time=598}}

Joe Beaudoin Jr.: updating time

2025-07-14T02:16:28Z

updating time

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	The voice of the Imperious Leader was provided by the distinguished actor [[w:Patrick Macnee\|Patrick Macnee]].<ref name="sswa125">{{cite book/sswa\|125}}</ref> Initially, producer [[Glen A. Larson]] instructed sound editor [[Peter Berkos]] to create "the most evil voice in the world." Berkos hired actor [[w:Lou Ferrigno\|Lou Ferrigno]] and mixed his deep voice with the sound of a hissing cobra. However, Larson found the result "almost too frightening" and chose to go with Macnee's performance instead.<ref name="sswa125"/> The only known evidence of this performance is in a scene that aired in 1978 on ''Good Morning America'', featuring an interview with [[Lorne Greene]].		The voice of the Imperious Leader was provided by the distinguished actor [[w:Patrick Macnee\|Patrick Macnee]].<ref name="sswa125">{{cite book/sswa\|125}}</ref> Initially, producer [[Glen A. Larson]] instructed sound editor [[Peter Berkos]] to create "the most evil voice in the world." Berkos hired actor [[w:Lou Ferrigno\|Lou Ferrigno]] and mixed his deep voice with the sound of a hissing cobra. However, Larson found the result "almost too frightening" and chose to go with Macnee's performance instead.<ref name="sswa125"/> The only known evidence of this performance is in a scene that aired in 1978 on ''Good Morning America'', featuring an interview with [[Lorne Greene]].

	{{#widget:Video\|id=uUphRIFYv\|time=~~535~~}}		{{#widget:Video\|id=uUphRIFYv\|time=598}}

	In the theatrical version of the pilot, the Imperious Leader orders [[Baltar]]'s execution.<ref>{{cite book/sswa\|126}}</ref> However, for the television series, this was changed. In the epilogue to "Saga of a Star World," the new Imperious Leader spares Baltar's life, telling him his mission is to offer peace to the surviving Colonials. This is later [[Wikipedia:Retcon\|retconned]] in "[[Lost Planet of the Gods, Part I]]," where this peace mandate is absent, and Baltar is simply escorted out of the [[throne room]] by [[Lucifer]].		In the theatrical version of the pilot, the Imperious Leader orders [[Baltar]]'s execution.<ref>{{cite book/sswa\|126}}</ref> However, for the television series, this was changed. In the epilogue to "Saga of a Star World," the new Imperious Leader spares Baltar's life, telling him his mission is to offer peace to the surviving Colonials. This is later [[Wikipedia:Retcon\|retconned]] in "[[Lost Planet of the Gods, Part I]]," where this peace mandate is absent, and Baltar is simply escorted out of the [[throne room]] by [[Lucifer]].

Joe Beaudoin Jr.: /* Character Conception and Portrayal */

2025-07-14T02:15:24Z

Character Conception and Portrayal

← Older revision		Revision as of 02:15, 14 July 2025
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	The voice of the Imperious Leader was provided by the distinguished actor [[w:Patrick Macnee\|Patrick Macnee]].<ref name="sswa125">{{cite book/sswa\|125}}</ref> Initially, producer [[Glen A. Larson]] instructed sound editor [[Peter Berkos]] to create "the most evil voice in the world." Berkos hired actor [[w:Lou Ferrigno\|Lou Ferrigno]] and mixed his deep voice with the sound of a hissing cobra. However, Larson found the result "almost too frightening" and chose to go with Macnee's performance instead.<ref name="sswa125"/> The only known evidence of this performance is in a scene that aired in 1978 on ''Good Morning America'', featuring an interview with [[Lorne Greene]].		The voice of the Imperious Leader was provided by the distinguished actor [[w:Patrick Macnee\|Patrick Macnee]].<ref name="sswa125">{{cite book/sswa\|125}}</ref> Initially, producer [[Glen A. Larson]] instructed sound editor [[Peter Berkos]] to create "the most evil voice in the world." Berkos hired actor [[w:Lou Ferrigno\|Lou Ferrigno]] and mixed his deep voice with the sound of a hissing cobra. However, Larson found the result "almost too frightening" and chose to go with Macnee's performance instead.<ref name="sswa125"/> The only known evidence of this performance is in a scene that aired in 1978 on ''Good Morning America'', featuring an interview with [[Lorne Greene]].

			{{#widget:Video\|id=uUphRIFYv\|time=535}}

	In the theatrical version of the pilot, the Imperious Leader orders [[Baltar]]'s execution.<ref>{{cite book/sswa\|126}}</ref> However, for the television series, this was changed. In the epilogue to "Saga of a Star World," the new Imperious Leader spares Baltar's life, telling him his mission is to offer peace to the surviving Colonials. This is later [[Wikipedia:Retcon\|retconned]] in "[[Lost Planet of the Gods, Part I]]," where this peace mandate is absent, and Baltar is simply escorted out of the [[throne room]] by [[Lucifer]].		In the theatrical version of the pilot, the Imperious Leader orders [[Baltar]]'s execution.<ref>{{cite book/sswa\|126}}</ref> However, for the television series, this was changed. In the epilogue to "Saga of a Star World," the new Imperious Leader spares Baltar's life, telling him his mission is to offer peace to the surviving Colonials. This is later [[Wikipedia:Retcon\|retconned]] in "[[Lost Planet of the Gods, Part I]]," where this peace mandate is absent, and Baltar is simply escorted out of the [[throne room]] by [[Lucifer]].

Joe Beaudoin Jr.: /* Character Conception and Portrayal */

2025-07-14T01:22:58Z

Character Conception and Portrayal

← Older revision		Revision as of 01:22, 14 July 2025
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	'''''Note:''' Per this posting, Rambaldi claims otherwise, although it is not substantiated either way.''</ref> to have been designed and built by [[w:Carlo Rambaldi\|Carlo Rambaldi]], the famed creator of [[w:E.T.\|E.T.]]<ref name="sswa124"/> A deleted scene from "[[Saga of a Star World]]" offers a glimpse of this original reptilian concept, showing a non-robotic face communicating through a glass orb.		'''''Note:''' Per this posting, Rambaldi claims otherwise, although it is not substantiated either way.''</ref> to have been designed and built by [[w:Carlo Rambaldi\|Carlo Rambaldi]], the famed creator of [[w:E.T.\|E.T.]]<ref name="sswa124"/> A deleted scene from "[[Saga of a Star World]]" offers a glimpse of this original reptilian concept, showing a non-robotic face communicating through a glass orb.

	The voice of the Imperious Leader was provided by the distinguished actor [[w:Patrick Macnee\|Patrick Macnee]].<ref name="sswa125">{{cite book/sswa\|125}}</ref> Initially, producer [[Glen A. Larson]] instructed sound editor [[Peter Berkos]] to create "the most evil voice in the world." Berkos hired actor [[w:Lou Ferrigno\|Lou Ferrigno]] and mixed his deep voice with the sound of a hissing cobra. However, Larson found the result "almost too frightening" and chose to go with Macnee's performance instead.<ref name="sswa125"/>		The voice of the Imperious Leader was provided by the distinguished actor [[w:Patrick Macnee\|Patrick Macnee]].<ref name="sswa125">{{cite book/sswa\|125}}</ref> Initially, producer [[Glen A. Larson]] instructed sound editor [[Peter Berkos]] to create "the most evil voice in the world." Berkos hired actor [[w:Lou Ferrigno\|Lou Ferrigno]] and mixed his deep voice with the sound of a hissing cobra. However, Larson found the result "almost too frightening" and chose to go with Macnee's performance instead.<ref name="sswa125"/> The only known evidence of this performance is in a scene that aired in 1978 on ''Good Morning America'', featuring an interview with [[Lorne Greene]].

	In the theatrical version of the pilot, the Imperious Leader orders [[Baltar]]'s execution.<ref>{{cite book/sswa\|126}}</ref> However, for the television series, this was changed. In the epilogue to "Saga of a Star World," the new Imperious Leader spares Baltar's life, telling him his mission is to offer peace to the surviving Colonials. This is later [[Wikipedia:Retcon\|retconned]] in "[[Lost Planet of the Gods, Part I]]," where this peace mandate is absent, and Baltar is simply escorted out of the [[throne room]] by [[Lucifer]].		In the theatrical version of the pilot, the Imperious Leader orders [[Baltar]]'s execution.<ref>{{cite book/sswa\|126}}</ref> However, for the television series, this was changed. In the epilogue to "Saga of a Star World," the new Imperious Leader spares Baltar's life, telling him his mission is to offer peace to the surviving Colonials. This is later [[Wikipedia:Retcon\|retconned]] in "[[Lost Planet of the Gods, Part I]]," where this peace mandate is absent, and Baltar is simply escorted out of the [[throne room]] by [[Lucifer]].

Joe Beaudoin Jr.: /* Character Conception and Portrayal */

2025-07-14T01:17:09Z

Character Conception and Portrayal

← Older revision		Revision as of 01:17, 14 July 2025
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	[[File:Imperiouslizarddeleted.jpg\|thumb\|right\|The Imperious Leader]]		[[File:Imperiouslizarddeleted.jpg\|thumb\|right\|The Imperious Leader]]

	According to ''[[So Say We All: The Complete, Uncensored, Unauthorized Oral History of Battlestar Galactica]]'', the Imperious Leader was envisioned as a "reptilian creature with a cobra head," intended to be a physically imposing and sinister presence, though often kept in the shadows.<ref name="sswa124">{{cite book/sswa\|124}}</ref> The elaborate costume, which cost an exorbitant $50,000, featured an imposing cloak designed by [[Jean-Pierre Dorleac]], while the head itself is alleged to have been designed and built by [[w:Carlo Rambaldi\|Carlo Rambaldi]], the famed creator of [[w:E.T.\|E.T.]]<ref name="sswa124"/> A deleted scene from "[[Saga of a Star World]]" offers a glimpse of this original reptilian concept, showing a non-robotic face communicating through a glass orb.		According to ''[[So Say We All: The Complete, Uncensored, Unauthorized Oral History of Battlestar Galactica]]'', the Imperious Leader was envisioned as a "reptilian creature with a cobra head," intended to be a physically imposing and sinister presence, though often kept in the shadows.<ref name="sswa124">{{cite book/sswa\|124}}</ref> The elaborate costume, which cost an exorbitant $50,000, featured an imposing cloak designed by [[Jean-Pierre Dorleac]], while the head itself is alleged<ref>{{Cite web\|url=https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=625195459809876&id=100069582834284&set=a.401107145552043\|title=Facebook Post - Battlestar Galactica 1978\|accessdate=13 July 2025\|date=9 September 2023}}

			'''''Note:''' Per this posting, Rambaldi claims otherwise, although it is not substantiated either way.''</ref> to have been designed and built by [[w:Carlo Rambaldi\|Carlo Rambaldi]], the famed creator of [[w:E.T.\|E.T.]]<ref name="sswa124"/> A deleted scene from "[[Saga of a Star World]]" offers a glimpse of this original reptilian concept, showing a non-robotic face communicating through a glass orb.

	The voice of the Imperious Leader was provided by the distinguished actor [[w:Patrick Macnee\|Patrick Macnee]].<ref name="sswa125">{{cite book/sswa\|125}}</ref> Initially, producer [[Glen A. Larson]] instructed sound editor [[Peter Berkos]] to create "the most evil voice in the world." Berkos hired actor [[w:Lou Ferrigno\|Lou Ferrigno]] and mixed his deep voice with the sound of a hissing cobra. However, Larson found the result "almost too frightening" and chose to go with Macnee's performance instead.<ref name="sswa125"/>		The voice of the Imperious Leader was provided by the distinguished actor [[w:Patrick Macnee\|Patrick Macnee]].<ref name="sswa125">{{cite book/sswa\|125}}</ref> Initially, producer [[Glen A. Larson]] instructed sound editor [[Peter Berkos]] to create "the most evil voice in the world." Berkos hired actor [[w:Lou Ferrigno\|Lou Ferrigno]] and mixed his deep voice with the sound of a hissing cobra. However, Larson found the result "almost too frightening" and chose to go with Macnee's performance instead.<ref name="sswa125"/>

Joe Beaudoin Jr.: /* Notes */

2025-07-14T01:08:45Z

Notes

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	==Notes==		==Notes==
	~~[[File:Imperiouslizarddeleted.jpg\|thumb\|right\|The Imperious Lizard]]~~

	* In a deleted scene from "[[Saga of a Star World]]," a ~~Centurion is seen~~ communicating ~~with the Imperious Leader~~ through a glass orb. The ~~face~~ of the Imperious Leader ~~is clearly not robotic~~ and ~~possibly provides an insight into~~ the ~~original reptillian concept~~ for the ~~Cylons~~.		=== Character Conception and Portrayal ===
	* In the epilogue to "Saga of a Star World," the new Imperious Leader ~~tells~~ Baltar ~~that~~ his mission is to offer peace to the surviving Colonials~~, as the Empire is now supreme enough to tolerate humanity's existence~~. This is later [[Wikipedia:Retcon\|retconned]] in "[[Lost Planet of the Gods, Part I]]," where ~~the Imperious Leader does not tell him~~ this, and is ~~then~~ escorted out of the [[throne room]] by [[Lucifer]].		[[File:Imperiouslizarddeleted.jpg\|thumb\|right\|The Imperious Leader]]
	* Another Imperious Leader, with a different voice (provided by [[Dennis Haysbert]]), appears in the episode "[[Space Croppers]]" in the short-lived ''[[Galactica 1980]]''. (The sequence utilizes stock footage from the Original Series.)
	~~<br clear~~=~~"all" />~~		According to ''[[So Say We All: The Complete, Uncensored, Unauthorized Oral History of Battlestar Galactica]]'', the Imperious Leader was envisioned as a "reptilian creature with a cobra head," intended to be a physically imposing and sinister presence, though often kept in the shadows.<ref name="sswa124">{{cite book/sswa\|124}}</ref> The elaborate costume, which cost an exorbitant $50,000, featured an imposing cloak designed by [[Jean-Pierre Dorleac]], while the head itself is alleged to have been designed and built by [[w:Carlo Rambaldi\|Carlo Rambaldi]], the famed creator of [[w:E.T.\|E.T.]]<ref name="sswa124"/> A deleted scene from "[[Saga of a Star World]]" offers a glimpse of this original reptilian concept, showing a non-robotic face communicating through a glass orb.

			The voice of the Imperious Leader was provided by the distinguished actor [[w:Patrick Macnee\|Patrick Macnee]].<ref name="sswa125">{{cite book/sswa\|125}}</ref> Initially, producer [[Glen A. Larson]] instructed sound editor [[Peter Berkos]] to create "the most evil voice in the world." Berkos hired actor [[w:Lou Ferrigno\|Lou Ferrigno]] and mixed his deep voice with the sound of a hissing cobra. However, Larson found the result "almost too frightening" and chose to go with Macnee's performance instead.<ref name="sswa125"/>

			In the theatrical version of the pilot, the Imperious Leader orders [[Baltar]]'s execution.<ref>{{cite book/sswa\|126}}</ref> However, for the television series, this was changed. In the epilogue to "Saga of a Star World," the new Imperious Leader spares Baltar's life, telling him his mission is to offer peace to the surviving Colonials. This is later [[Wikipedia:Retcon\|retconned]] in "[[Lost Planet of the Gods, Part I]]," where this peace mandate is absent, and Baltar is simply escorted out of the [[throne room]] by [[Lucifer]].

			=== Re-imagined Series Perspective ===
			The Imperious Leader has no direct analogue in the [[Battlestar Galactica (RDM)\|Re-imagined Series]]. The Cylon hierarchy in the 2004 series is decentralized, led collectively by the various [[Humanoid Cylon\|humanoid Cylon models]] rather than a single supreme ruler.

			=== Additional Details ===
			* Another Imperious Leader, with a different voice (provided by [[Dennis Haysbert]]), appears in the episode "[[Space Croppers]]" in the short-lived ''[[Galactica 1980]]''. (The sequence utilizes stock footage from the Original Series.)

			==References==
			{{reflist}}

	{{Characters (TOS)}}		{{Characters (TOS)}}

← Older revision		Revision as of 02:17, 14 July 2025
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	'''''Note:''' Per this posting, Rambaldi claims otherwise, although it is not substantiated either way.''</ref> to have been designed and built by [[w:Carlo Rambaldi\|Carlo Rambaldi]], the famed creator of [[w:E.T.\|E.T.]]<ref name="sswa124"/> A deleted scene from "[[Saga of a Star World]]" offers a glimpse of this original reptilian concept, showing a non-robotic face communicating through a glass orb.		'''''Note:''' Per this posting, Rambaldi claims otherwise, although it is not substantiated either way.''</ref> to have been designed and built by [[w:Carlo Rambaldi\|Carlo Rambaldi]], the famed creator of [[w:E.T.\|E.T.]]<ref name="sswa124"/> A deleted scene from "[[Saga of a Star World]]" offers a glimpse of this original reptilian concept, showing a non-robotic face communicating through a glass orb.

	The voice of the Imperious Leader was provided by the distinguished actor [[w:Patrick Macnee\|Patrick Macnee]].<ref name="sswa125">{{cite book/sswa\|125}}</ref> Initially, producer [[Glen A. Larson]] instructed sound editor [[Peter Berkos]] to create "the most evil voice in the world." Berkos hired actor [[w:Lou Ferrigno\|Lou Ferrigno]] and mixed his deep voice with the sound of a hissing cobra. However, Larson found the result "almost too frightening" and chose to go with Macnee's performance instead.<ref name="sswa125"/> The only known evidence of this performance is in a scene that aired in 1978 on ''Good Morning America'', ~~featuring~~ an interview with [[Lorne Greene]].		The voice of the Imperious Leader was provided by the distinguished actor [[w:Patrick Macnee\|Patrick Macnee]].<ref name="sswa125">{{cite book/sswa\|125}}</ref> Initially, producer [[Glen A. Larson]] instructed sound editor [[Peter Berkos]] to create "the most evil voice in the world." Berkos hired actor [[w:Lou Ferrigno\|Lou Ferrigno]] and mixed his deep voice with the sound of a hissing cobra. However, Larson found the result "almost too frightening" and chose to go with Macnee's performance instead.<ref name="sswa125"/> The only known evidence of this performance is in a scene that aired in 1978 on ''Good Morning America'', during an interview with [[Lorne Greene]].

	{{#widget:Video\|id=uUphRIFYv\|time=598}}		{{#widget:Video\|id=uUphRIFYv\|time=598}}

← Older revision		Revision as of 02:16, 14 July 2025
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	The voice of the Imperious Leader was provided by the distinguished actor [[w:Patrick Macnee\|Patrick Macnee]].<ref name="sswa125">{{cite book/sswa\|125}}</ref> Initially, producer [[Glen A. Larson]] instructed sound editor [[Peter Berkos]] to create "the most evil voice in the world." Berkos hired actor [[w:Lou Ferrigno\|Lou Ferrigno]] and mixed his deep voice with the sound of a hissing cobra. However, Larson found the result "almost too frightening" and chose to go with Macnee's performance instead.<ref name="sswa125"/> The only known evidence of this performance is in a scene that aired in 1978 on ''Good Morning America'', featuring an interview with [[Lorne Greene]].		The voice of the Imperious Leader was provided by the distinguished actor [[w:Patrick Macnee\|Patrick Macnee]].<ref name="sswa125">{{cite book/sswa\|125}}</ref> Initially, producer [[Glen A. Larson]] instructed sound editor [[Peter Berkos]] to create "the most evil voice in the world." Berkos hired actor [[w:Lou Ferrigno\|Lou Ferrigno]] and mixed his deep voice with the sound of a hissing cobra. However, Larson found the result "almost too frightening" and chose to go with Macnee's performance instead.<ref name="sswa125"/> The only known evidence of this performance is in a scene that aired in 1978 on ''Good Morning America'', featuring an interview with [[Lorne Greene]].

	{{#widget:Video\|id=uUphRIFYv\|time=~~535~~}}		{{#widget:Video\|id=uUphRIFYv\|time=598}}

	In the theatrical version of the pilot, the Imperious Leader orders [[Baltar]]'s execution.<ref>{{cite book/sswa\|126}}</ref> However, for the television series, this was changed. In the epilogue to "Saga of a Star World," the new Imperious Leader spares Baltar's life, telling him his mission is to offer peace to the surviving Colonials. This is later [[Wikipedia:Retcon\|retconned]] in "[[Lost Planet of the Gods, Part I]]," where this peace mandate is absent, and Baltar is simply escorted out of the [[throne room]] by [[Lucifer]].		In the theatrical version of the pilot, the Imperious Leader orders [[Baltar]]'s execution.<ref>{{cite book/sswa\|126}}</ref> However, for the television series, this was changed. In the epilogue to "Saga of a Star World," the new Imperious Leader spares Baltar's life, telling him his mission is to offer peace to the surviving Colonials. This is later [[Wikipedia:Retcon\|retconned]] in "[[Lost Planet of the Gods, Part I]]," where this peace mandate is absent, and Baltar is simply escorted out of the [[throne room]] by [[Lucifer]].

← Older revision		Revision as of 02:15, 14 July 2025
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	The voice of the Imperious Leader was provided by the distinguished actor [[w:Patrick Macnee\|Patrick Macnee]].<ref name="sswa125">{{cite book/sswa\|125}}</ref> Initially, producer [[Glen A. Larson]] instructed sound editor [[Peter Berkos]] to create "the most evil voice in the world." Berkos hired actor [[w:Lou Ferrigno\|Lou Ferrigno]] and mixed his deep voice with the sound of a hissing cobra. However, Larson found the result "almost too frightening" and chose to go with Macnee's performance instead.<ref name="sswa125"/> The only known evidence of this performance is in a scene that aired in 1978 on ''Good Morning America'', featuring an interview with [[Lorne Greene]].		The voice of the Imperious Leader was provided by the distinguished actor [[w:Patrick Macnee\|Patrick Macnee]].<ref name="sswa125">{{cite book/sswa\|125}}</ref> Initially, producer [[Glen A. Larson]] instructed sound editor [[Peter Berkos]] to create "the most evil voice in the world." Berkos hired actor [[w:Lou Ferrigno\|Lou Ferrigno]] and mixed his deep voice with the sound of a hissing cobra. However, Larson found the result "almost too frightening" and chose to go with Macnee's performance instead.<ref name="sswa125"/> The only known evidence of this performance is in a scene that aired in 1978 on ''Good Morning America'', featuring an interview with [[Lorne Greene]].

			{{#widget:Video\|id=uUphRIFYv\|time=535}}

	In the theatrical version of the pilot, the Imperious Leader orders [[Baltar]]'s execution.<ref>{{cite book/sswa\|126}}</ref> However, for the television series, this was changed. In the epilogue to "Saga of a Star World," the new Imperious Leader spares Baltar's life, telling him his mission is to offer peace to the surviving Colonials. This is later [[Wikipedia:Retcon\|retconned]] in "[[Lost Planet of the Gods, Part I]]," where this peace mandate is absent, and Baltar is simply escorted out of the [[throne room]] by [[Lucifer]].		In the theatrical version of the pilot, the Imperious Leader orders [[Baltar]]'s execution.<ref>{{cite book/sswa\|126}}</ref> However, for the television series, this was changed. In the epilogue to "Saga of a Star World," the new Imperious Leader spares Baltar's life, telling him his mission is to offer peace to the surviving Colonials. This is later [[Wikipedia:Retcon\|retconned]] in "[[Lost Planet of the Gods, Part I]]," where this peace mandate is absent, and Baltar is simply escorted out of the [[throne room]] by [[Lucifer]].

← Older revision		Revision as of 01:22, 14 July 2025
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	'''''Note:''' Per this posting, Rambaldi claims otherwise, although it is not substantiated either way.''</ref> to have been designed and built by [[w:Carlo Rambaldi\|Carlo Rambaldi]], the famed creator of [[w:E.T.\|E.T.]]<ref name="sswa124"/> A deleted scene from "[[Saga of a Star World]]" offers a glimpse of this original reptilian concept, showing a non-robotic face communicating through a glass orb.		'''''Note:''' Per this posting, Rambaldi claims otherwise, although it is not substantiated either way.''</ref> to have been designed and built by [[w:Carlo Rambaldi\|Carlo Rambaldi]], the famed creator of [[w:E.T.\|E.T.]]<ref name="sswa124"/> A deleted scene from "[[Saga of a Star World]]" offers a glimpse of this original reptilian concept, showing a non-robotic face communicating through a glass orb.

	The voice of the Imperious Leader was provided by the distinguished actor [[w:Patrick Macnee\|Patrick Macnee]].<ref name="sswa125">{{cite book/sswa\|125}}</ref> Initially, producer [[Glen A. Larson]] instructed sound editor [[Peter Berkos]] to create "the most evil voice in the world." Berkos hired actor [[w:Lou Ferrigno\|Lou Ferrigno]] and mixed his deep voice with the sound of a hissing cobra. However, Larson found the result "almost too frightening" and chose to go with Macnee's performance instead.<ref name="sswa125"/>		The voice of the Imperious Leader was provided by the distinguished actor [[w:Patrick Macnee\|Patrick Macnee]].<ref name="sswa125">{{cite book/sswa\|125}}</ref> Initially, producer [[Glen A. Larson]] instructed sound editor [[Peter Berkos]] to create "the most evil voice in the world." Berkos hired actor [[w:Lou Ferrigno\|Lou Ferrigno]] and mixed his deep voice with the sound of a hissing cobra. However, Larson found the result "almost too frightening" and chose to go with Macnee's performance instead.<ref name="sswa125"/> The only known evidence of this performance is in a scene that aired in 1978 on ''Good Morning America'', featuring an interview with [[Lorne Greene]].

	In the theatrical version of the pilot, the Imperious Leader orders [[Baltar]]'s execution.<ref>{{cite book/sswa\|126}}</ref> However, for the television series, this was changed. In the epilogue to "Saga of a Star World," the new Imperious Leader spares Baltar's life, telling him his mission is to offer peace to the surviving Colonials. This is later [[Wikipedia:Retcon\|retconned]] in "[[Lost Planet of the Gods, Part I]]," where this peace mandate is absent, and Baltar is simply escorted out of the [[throne room]] by [[Lucifer]].		In the theatrical version of the pilot, the Imperious Leader orders [[Baltar]]'s execution.<ref>{{cite book/sswa\|126}}</ref> However, for the television series, this was changed. In the epilogue to "Saga of a Star World," the new Imperious Leader spares Baltar's life, telling him his mission is to offer peace to the surviving Colonials. This is later [[Wikipedia:Retcon\|retconned]] in "[[Lost Planet of the Gods, Part I]]," where this peace mandate is absent, and Baltar is simply escorted out of the [[throne room]] by [[Lucifer]].

← Older revision		Revision as of 01:17, 14 July 2025
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	[[File:Imperiouslizarddeleted.jpg\|thumb\|right\|The Imperious Leader]]		[[File:Imperiouslizarddeleted.jpg\|thumb\|right\|The Imperious Leader]]

	According to ''[[So Say We All: The Complete, Uncensored, Unauthorized Oral History of Battlestar Galactica]]'', the Imperious Leader was envisioned as a "reptilian creature with a cobra head," intended to be a physically imposing and sinister presence, though often kept in the shadows.<ref name="sswa124">{{cite book/sswa\|124}}</ref> The elaborate costume, which cost an exorbitant $50,000, featured an imposing cloak designed by [[Jean-Pierre Dorleac]], while the head itself is alleged to have been designed and built by [[w:Carlo Rambaldi\|Carlo Rambaldi]], the famed creator of [[w:E.T.\|E.T.]]<ref name="sswa124"/> A deleted scene from "[[Saga of a Star World]]" offers a glimpse of this original reptilian concept, showing a non-robotic face communicating through a glass orb.		According to ''[[So Say We All: The Complete, Uncensored, Unauthorized Oral History of Battlestar Galactica]]'', the Imperious Leader was envisioned as a "reptilian creature with a cobra head," intended to be a physically imposing and sinister presence, though often kept in the shadows.<ref name="sswa124">{{cite book/sswa\|124}}</ref> The elaborate costume, which cost an exorbitant $50,000, featured an imposing cloak designed by [[Jean-Pierre Dorleac]], while the head itself is alleged<ref>{{Cite web\|url=https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=625195459809876&id=100069582834284&set=a.401107145552043\|title=Facebook Post - Battlestar Galactica 1978\|accessdate=13 July 2025\|date=9 September 2023}}

			'''''Note:''' Per this posting, Rambaldi claims otherwise, although it is not substantiated either way.''</ref> to have been designed and built by [[w:Carlo Rambaldi\|Carlo Rambaldi]], the famed creator of [[w:E.T.\|E.T.]]<ref name="sswa124"/> A deleted scene from "[[Saga of a Star World]]" offers a glimpse of this original reptilian concept, showing a non-robotic face communicating through a glass orb.

	The voice of the Imperious Leader was provided by the distinguished actor [[w:Patrick Macnee\|Patrick Macnee]].<ref name="sswa125">{{cite book/sswa\|125}}</ref> Initially, producer [[Glen A. Larson]] instructed sound editor [[Peter Berkos]] to create "the most evil voice in the world." Berkos hired actor [[w:Lou Ferrigno\|Lou Ferrigno]] and mixed his deep voice with the sound of a hissing cobra. However, Larson found the result "almost too frightening" and chose to go with Macnee's performance instead.<ref name="sswa125"/>		The voice of the Imperious Leader was provided by the distinguished actor [[w:Patrick Macnee\|Patrick Macnee]].<ref name="sswa125">{{cite book/sswa\|125}}</ref> Initially, producer [[Glen A. Larson]] instructed sound editor [[Peter Berkos]] to create "the most evil voice in the world." Berkos hired actor [[w:Lou Ferrigno\|Lou Ferrigno]] and mixed his deep voice with the sound of a hissing cobra. However, Larson found the result "almost too frightening" and chose to go with Macnee's performance instead.<ref name="sswa125"/>