Fans of Stargate:Atlantis character Dr. Carson Beckett will be pleased to hear that Paul McGillion will be reprising his role for a two-episode arc this season.  Fans were saddened when Dr Beckett was suddenly killed in an explosion at the end of season three.  Jewel Staite (Firefly) has come aboard as the new head doctor, but transitions are always tough.

McGillion told SciFi Wire, "When the fellas told me that they were going to be making some changes with the cast and stuff, they said, 'No one ever dies in sci-fi.'  I was kind of surprised, but having heard a lot of the fan reaction and stuff, I think it was a big thing when my character died, and I think that has a lot to do with the writing they gave the character and the opportunity to play such a fun character and a well-loved character. A lot of people have called him the heart of Atlantis. And I think the fans really stood behind that, and rallied behind the character a lot. So I was flattered and obviously thrilled to come back."

When asked about the extent of his role, he said, "They gave me a really great storyline.  I think the fans will appreciate it. Beckett has a lot to do in the storyline that they've given the character. So I'm really happy with it. I think it's a really great way to bring Beckett back. Without going into any details, because I really can't, he's heavily, heavily based in the episodes. They'll see a lot of Beckett."

SciFI has also announced that Torri Higgenson, who played Dr. Elizabeth Weir but whose character has been replaced by Amanda Tapping's Col. Samantha Carter, will also be returning to Atlantis this season for a few guest appearances.  Christopher Judge (Teal'c) will appear as well, though it's not clear how many times he will guest star.