Sam Rockwell Suggests Helen Mirren as Potential Replacement for Alan Rickman in Galaxy Quest Sequel

The actor is hopeful a new version of the cult classic sci-fi film can move forward despite the loss of a key cast member.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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In a recent interview, actor Sam Rockwell discussed the long-gestating plans for a Galaxy Quest sequel series, acknowledging the challenges posed by the passing of his co-star Alan Rickman. Rockwell suggested that acclaimed British actress Helen Mirren could be an ideal replacement to fill Rickman's role as the Shakespearean actor Alexander Dane, a character inspired by Star Trek's Leonard Nimoy and Michael Dorn.

Why it matters

The original Galaxy Quest film developed a devoted cult following for its affectionate parody of Star Trek and the actors who portrayed its iconic characters. Attempts to revive the franchise have faced numerous hurdles, including Rickman's death in 2016, which has complicated plans for a sequel series. Rockwell's suggestion of Mirren as a potential replacement highlights the creative challenges the production team must navigate to honor the legacy of the original while moving the story forward.

The details

In the original Galaxy Quest, Rickman starred as Alexander Dane, a Shakespearean actor who resented his time on the fictional eponymous sci-fi series, a role inspired by the experiences of Star Trek actors like Leonard Nimoy and Michael Dorn. Attempts to develop a Galaxy Quest sequel series have been in the works for years, with various creative teams attached, including comedian Paul Scheer, Simon Pegg, and Georgia Pritchett. The most recent update came in 2025, when it was announced that the project was still in active development at CBS Studios following the Paramount and Skydance merger.

  • The original Galaxy Quest film was released in 1999.
  • Attempts to make a Galaxy Quest sequel have been ongoing for the past 26 years since the original's release.
  • Alan Rickman, who played a key role in the original film, passed away in 2016.

The players

Sam Rockwell

An American actor who starred in the original Galaxy Quest film and is now discussing the potential for a sequel.

Alan Rickman

The late British actor who played the role of Alexander Dane in the original Galaxy Quest film.

Helen Mirren

A renowned British actress whom Rockwell has suggested as a potential replacement for Rickman's character in a Galaxy Quest sequel.

Tim Allen

The American actor who starred as the lead in the original Galaxy Quest film.

Sigourney Weaver

The American actress who also starred in the original Galaxy Quest film alongside Rockwell and Rickman.

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What they’re saying

“I don't know what would happen now, but we'd have to get Helen Mirren or somebody. I don't know what's happening with [the Simon Pegg series]. We should definitely do it. I'm game.”

— Sam Rockwell, Actor (ScreenRant)

“We should definitely do it.”

— Sam Rockwell, Actor (ScreenRant)

What’s next

The Galaxy Quest sequel series is still in active development at CBS Studios, with the production team working to overcome the creative challenges posed by the loss of Alan Rickman.

The takeaway

The potential for a Galaxy Quest sequel highlights the enduring appeal of the original film's affectionate parody of the Star Trek franchise and the actors who brought those iconic characters to life. While the passing of Alan Rickman presents a significant obstacle, the creative team's willingness to explore new approaches, such as the suggestion of Helen Mirren as a replacement, demonstrates their commitment to honoring the legacy of the original while moving the story forward.