The Sackhoff Show James Callis Talks Battlestar, Gaius Baltar and Why Playing Bad Guys is Fun
Nov 4, 2025
Join British actor James Callis, best known as Dr. Gaius Baltar on Battlestar Galactica, as he shares insights into the art of acting and the joys of fatherhood. He explores the complexity of characters, how confidence shapes performance, and the importance of collaboration with legendary actors like Gary Oldman. James reveals his creative writing passions and reflects on balancing career and family life, all while adding his playful and goofy charm to the conversation.
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Power Of Pause And Internal Duality
- James Callis sees compelling acting in the unsaid and the internal duality of characters rather than pure monstrosity.
- He uses pauses and subtext to reveal conflict and keep audiences wondering what the character will do next.
Keep Creating Between Jobs
- James Callis advises actors to always be creating, especially writing, when not acting.
- He says self-driven projects make you more likely to seize unexpected opportunities like auditions.
Morocco Shoot Turned Grim
- Callis recounts shooting a violent biblical production in Morocco covered in ketchup and chained to a wall.
- He used the experience to remind himself that filmmaking can be grueling and far from glamorous.
