Eileen the Machine

"Eileen the Machine" is a woman from the past of Saul Tigh and Daniel Novacek, referenced during their reunion conversation aboard Galactica following Novacek's escape from Cylon captivity.

Background

Eileen is remembered by Novacek as someone he "gifted" to Tigh during their earlier service together, likely during their time aboard Valkyrie. According to Tigh's recollection, she was notable for having "no front teeth," which Novacek suggests made her particularly suited to Tigh's "tastes and sensibilities."

Novacek describes Eileen as being "custom-made" for Tigh, though he acknowledges she was "no Ellen," referencing Tigh's deceased wife.

Character Context

The reference to Eileen emerges during a conversation where Novacek attempts to reconnect with Tigh through shared memories from their past. Having spent three years in Cylon captivity, Novacek explains that he "clung to every precious memory" during his solitary confinement, which included recollections of Eileen and the camaraderie of his earlier military service.

Tigh's reaction to the mention of Eileen is one of discomfort and embarrassment, suggesting the memory holds significance but perhaps not one he wishes to revisit. The conversation becomes awkward when Novacek inadvertently brings up Ellen Tigh, not yet knowing of her death during the occupation of New Caprica.

Notes

From Script to Screen

• The entire conversation referencing Eileen the Machine was removed from the final aired version of "Hero." The scene in the script shows Tigh and Novacek reminiscing about their shared past, but this dialogue was cut during production, likely for time constraints and narrative focus.
• The reference provides insight into the bachelor military culture that existed between Tigh and Novacek during their earlier service, suggesting a pattern of casual relationships that contrasts with Tigh's later devotion to Ellen.

References