Robert Carlyle to star in Stargate Universe

British actor Robert Carlyle will play the lead in Stargate Universe, the latest spin off to the Stargate franchice.

The new show comes from Stargate SG-1 and Stargate Atlantis creators Brad Wright and Robert Cooper, who will write and executive produce the new series. The Sci-Fi Channel is expected to order a 20 episode initial order, with production to start in February 2009.

The new show is described as being edgier and darker than the other two in the series. Stargate Universe follows a group of soldiers, scientists and civilians left to fend for themselves when forced through a Stargate after their hidden base comes under attack. The survivors are led by Dr. David Rush (Robert Carlyle).

Carlyle is best know for his roles as the psychopathic Francis Begbie in Trainspotting and Gaz in The Full Monty.