The Gateroom Interview - Cliff Simon
[The Gateroom] You’ve recently finished filming some season 10 episodes for “Stargate: SG-1”. Can you describe a typical day for you when you’re shooting?[Cliff Simon] Well, season 10 has got off to a good start, with some very big episodes. Typically, I will get picked up at around 6am, hair and makeup at 6.30, and on set to rehearse about 7 or 7.30am. A lot of the scenes we have shot, especially in "The Quest", are very big scenes with lots of SPX (special effects), so filming does take a long time. On an average day, we're finishing around 8pm. It is tiring, as we are on our feet most of the day.
[TG] So what can we expect from Baal in season 10 of SG-1?
[CS] I think the fans will see a change in Baal - I think, for the better, for the future. He is still quite funny, and more human, and I hope he doesn't lose his edginess.
[TG] Baal’s character has evolved from your typical “Big Bad” into a far more complex character, as possibly the only surviving Goa’uld System Lord. What is the most challenging part about playing Baal?
[CS] First of all, playing Baal is a lot of fun. I do have a fine line to follow, though, so as not to let him get weak, while still playing him as a fully 3-dimensional character. He is, and always will be, a dangerous character, but he is highly intelligent, and will sometimes pretend to be weak to get his own way - it's all part of the strategy!
[TG] Of all the episodes of SG-1 you've filmed over the years, which would you look back on and say was your favourite, and why?
[CS] Well, as of now, I would say "Insiders", as it was my storyline, and for me it was a lot of fun to do, as I had never done so much work with SPX and VFX (visual effects). I know "Abyss was very popular, and yes, it WAS good to torture O'Neill!
[TG] What do you enjoy the most about playing Baal?
[CS] I think he can be very quirky. Most of all, I enjoy the freedom that I have with the character, and now he has gone to the stage where he can either be good OR bad. Mmmmm, very interesting! Let's see what the writers come up with!
[TG] Baal has worn any number of costumes, ranging from almost biblical robes to designer suits. Do you find his changing style fun or annoying?
[CS] Yes, it's fun and good for the character. Sometimes, the costumes are not that easy to move in, and get extremely hot, but that's what we, as actors, have to endure. Although I am happy that Baal seems to be the fashion model on "Stargate: SG-1"!
[TG] Several cast members have written and/or directed episodes for SG-1 and Atlantis. If you were asked to write an episode of SG-1, what would your plot be?
[CS] We always see the heroes in situations that they can either handle or are in control of. We should see them when they really cannot do anything about a certain situation. Then, of course, Baal steps in and genuinely saves their lives! I think, just for once, the bad guy should save the people who are trying to get rid of him!
[TG] Are there any plans for you to appear in “Stargate: Atlantis”, either as Baal or a separate character, and would you ever consider switching galaxies should the chance arise?
[CS] I haven't been told anything, but yes, I would love to switch galaxies as Baal, and go to Atlantis, maybe to help the heroes, or just be baaaaad!
[TG] If you yourself, rather than a character you played, were to head out to Atlantis in the Pegasus Galaxy, what would your one luxury item be, and why?
[CS] Top of the line scuba equipment!
[TG] Your fans really seem to enjoy your performance as Baal. You do a great job at being evil. Although we'd love to see you play the character forever, the reality is that you will be performing in other roles in the future. What sort of roles do you see yourself doing in the next several years? What would be your dream role?
[CS] Thanks for the compliments! I see myself in features - I enjoy the psycho thrillers, and I would love to play the villain in a hard-hitting crime drama. I also see myself playing romantic lead roles in romantic comedies, etc. As for television, I would really like to do sitcoms as the unfunny guy.
[TG] Stargate seems to appeal to a lot of female fans. It also seems that the Stargate conventions have more women in attendance than men. How do you feel about being adored by so many women? Does it make life difficult at all?
[CS] Are you kidding??? (Laugh.) Okay, seriously. Generally, women watch more TV than men, in all cases, so there are always more female fans. Also, if a man is a fan, most of the time, he will not let you know. For some reason, men tend to think that to adore or admire an actor is a woman's thing, I don't know, but I must say that, of all the conventions I go to, things seem to be pretty even.
[TG] You appear at a lot of US and Canadian conventions. Are there any plans for appearances at conventions in Europe or elsewhere?
[CS] I really hope I get more cons in Europe! I have been to both London and Germany in the past, and have also been asked for in France. I've also been to Australia, and would love to go back. However, I should be at the NEC in Birmingham, England, in December this year if all goes well.
[TG] Have you ever considered coming to film something in Europe? There are plenty of fans over here who would be delighted to see Cliff Simon appearing in a more European environment.
[CS] Of course I would love to shoot a film in Europe! Unfortunately, it's not up to me. I think the industry over there is great, and they tend to make more of a real kind of film - real people, etc, etc - as opposed to these huge blockbuster action movies in the States - which, of course, I would not say no to! But yes, if I was asked (to make a film in Europe), I would definitely like to.
[TG] Out of all the things you have done: modelling, dancing, swimming or acting, what have you enjoyed the most and what has been the most rewarding?
[CS] Well, they are all completely different. My career as a dancer, acrobat, then model was my way of entering the business of acting, and working my way up to where I sort of am now, full time acting. I find that, with the acting, I am treated as more of a professional than when I was a dancer or a model.
[TG] Do you have any other projects you can tell us about?
[CS] Well, I am supposed to be doing either late this year or sometime next year. It's an amazing true story, but nothing is signed yet, so I would rather not talk about it at the moment. I have also been approached about a possible new sci-fi show...
[TG] Acting is obviously a huge part of your life. When you’re not working on a role, what do you do to keep yourself busy?
[CS] I work out in a gym a lot, and I do a lot of kiteboarding here in Malibu. For those of you who don't know what it is, check it out on the web - it's awesome! I used to windsurf a lot, then switched (to kiteboarding). I ride my motorbike through the Malibu Mountains, and I spend as much time on the beach as I can - I love the water. I also love to walk my dog.
[TG] You’re a bit of an action man. Do you feel this has helped or hindered your acting career on the whole?
[CS] It definitely helped my career. As an actor, you need to be aware of your body and movement. In a lot of acting classes, they will actually do a dance class. Movement and being aware of how you move are very important. Also, making myself take physical challenges helps me now with the mental challenges I face as an actor.
[TG] You moved over to Los Angeles from South Africa a few years ago. What prompted this move?
[CS] Well, a lot of things. I was a little bored with my career. South Africa is very small, and, eventually, I didn't feel like I was being challenged enough. Also, the political circumstances over there - I was just tired of it all, and wanted quality of life. The material things in life don't mean much if you don't HAVE a life. I was tired of being in violent situations, and was concerned for my wife. I had also always wanted to live in the United States - it's a great country!
[TG] Given the choice right this second to be anywhere in the world, where would it be?
[CS] In a water bungalow on the island of Bora Bora. Also Hawaii, where I will be in a few weeks for a break, on an island called Kauai.
[TG] One thing we never see in your more prominent roles is your sense of humour. What makes you laugh?
[CS] My bull terrier dog, my wife, and I have some very funny friends! Also, good stand-up comedians make me laugh. Other than that, I do tend to be a more serious type of person, but I try!
A Final Message From Cliff...
Thank you to all of you who posted these questions. I hope you are satisfied with the answer, and thank you all for your continued support. And remember - if you want to see me at a con near you, it is up to you guys, as the viewers need to get the organisers to request me! I really hope to see you all in both European conventions and in the States.
[TG] Thank you for your time, Cliff, and we hope to see much more of Baal in the coming seasons of SG-1!