<SteveKrutzler> ADMIRAL ON DECK!

<SteveKrutzler> I would like to welcome you all, as well as Ira Steven Behr to the chat tonight! Thanks for coming tonight Ira!

<IraBehr> #

<SteveKrutzler> Typing tonight for Ira is Mike Mistovich.

<IraBehr> It's good to be here, Steve. Especially since it's the end of the season.

<SteveKrutzler> Well, would you like to make any comments, or delve right into questions?

<StevePerry> AGAIN, as a reminder: Forward questions to me. Steve K is swamped. And PLEASE, make them good, original questions.

<IraBehr> Just so we don't waste time, I want to make it clear to everyone that there will be a 7th season...

<IraBehr> and that 7th will be the last season of DS9. Other than that, let's rock-n-roll!#

<SteveKrutzler> Alright then, I'll start us off... <SteveKrutzler> We're getting reports that Hans confirmed Dax's demise - something we've all <SteveKrutzler> been anticipating - last night. Can you confirm it for us here tonight and <SteveKrutzler> possibly give some hints about the circumstances surrounding her death, or <SteveKrutzler> at least her "departure"?

<IraBehr> There won't be a dry eye in the house. <IraBehr> We're all sorry to see Terry go.

<IraBehr> But it's understandable that after six seasons a person would want to move on to new things.

<IraBehr> I do believe that Jadzia's death will make the 7th season that much more interesting.#

<SteveKrutzler> Incidentially, so do I. :-) <SteveKrutzler> Next question... <SteveKrutzler> From Defiant Lad: There are many loose ends right now. Do you think you will be able to wrap <SteveKrutzler> all of them up by the end of season 7? Which ones do you want to take <SteveKrutzler> precedence over others? With any of the loose ends that remain, what are <SteveKrutzler> your plans to address them? <IraBehr> At least I know someone's watching.

<IraBehr> Defiant Lad, you are absolutely right... there are many loose ends. <IraBehr> I'm not certain that we'll wrap them all up, but Lord knows we're going to try.

<IraBehr> The writers are very aware that, at this time next year, we won't have DS9 to play with anymore... <IraBehr> so we want to give it our last, best shot at having a truly memorable season.

<IraBehr> We hope we do justice not only to the regular characters, but the many recurring characters that <IraBehr> we have on the show.

<IraBehr> And I'd hate to think that the Federation would be at the mercy of the Dominion once we put <IraBehr> the for sale sign on the station. <IraBehr> #

<SteveKrutzler> hehe <

StevePerry> FOR THOSE WHO HAVE JUST ARRIVED: Questions go to me, not SteveK. Don't be on them being asked since we have a ton already, and don't argue with me over it because I'm a jerk and I'm always right.

<SteveKrutzler> From JoseG: Is the season finale this year another big, galaxy-shattering, <SteveKrutzler> series-altering, speical-effects heavy extravaganza like "Call to Arms," or <SteveKrutzler> a more intimate, character-altering, personal tale like "Broken Link"?

<IraBehr> Well, JoseG, I would say that it is a bit of both. <IraBehr> There's definitely going to be special effects galore... <IraBehr> and we're going to ratchet up the Dominion war. <IraBehr> But, obviously, any episode that deals with the death of a series regular is going to have a strong <IraBehr> emotional kick, as well. <IraBehr> #

<SteveKrutzler> mmm... fx... ratchets... sounds cool... <SteveKrutzler> Emony_Dax: Do you feel that some of the main characters are being neglected as a result <SteveKrutzler> of the character development of some of the recurring guest characters (Ex: <SteveKrutzler> Weyoun) ?

<IraBehr> Not at all. <IraBehr> Do you? <IraBehr> #

<SteveKrutzler> CaptainCrunch: I've heard a lot of things about His Way and I must say they have all been <SteveKrutzler> positive. I was worried that Odo+Vegas=flop. Where did the idea come from?

<IraBehr> Personally, I think "His Way" is one of the best shows we've ever done on DS9.

<IraBehr> It's certainly one of the most effective romances in the history of the franchise.

<IraBehr> Actually, the idea first came up three seasons ago.

<IraBehr> I wanted to do a recurring Vegas lounge singer who would show up for one scene every couple <IraBehr> of episodes, and maybe sing a song. <IraBehr> Basically, he would be there to give advice on life, love and the cool way to hold a martini glass to our <IraBehr> characters. <IraBehr> Robert Wolfe liked the idea and we actually wrote it for one of the shows. <IraBehr> I wanted to get Frank Sinatra, Jr. to play the part but he preferred to play an alien. <IraBehr> So the idea kind of died. <IraBehr> Then, about a year later, I tried to put it in an episode that Rene Echevarria was writing...

<IraBehr> so he took a shot at a scene, but it got cut for time. <IraBehr> This season, it began to dawn on me that time was running out.

<IraBehr> And if I had a Jones to do an episode, I'd better get going before they erase my name off the parking <IraBehr> permits at the studio.

<IraBehr> So I decided to do an entire episode, instead of just one scene.

<IraBehr> And seeing that we wanted to move the Kira/Odo relationship along, a little advice from a Vegas <IraBehr> lounge singer seemed to be just the thing that the Constable needed. <IraBehr> We lucked out by getting Jimmy Darren to play Vic Fontaine. <IraBehr> We could not be happier. <IraBehr> Jimmy's already been back to do a scene in the final episode. <IraBehr> We hope to see more of him next season.#

<StevePerry> ANOTHER NOTE FOR PEOPLE ASKING QUESTIONS: Keep them short, since I'm giving it all she's got and I still can't type worth a flip. Thanks ahead of time.

<SteveKrutzler> ah, yet another finale tidbit. <SteveKrutzler> here we go....Miss Jan with Tony-O: I loved Far Beyond the Stars. Is there any chance that the death of the <SteveKrutzler> Jake character in the vision will play out in reality?

<IraBehr> I don't think so.#

<SteveKrutzler> JoseG: Your writing partner in crime, Hans Beimler, let it be known that the <SteveKrutzler> writing staff is planning out the entire season, all 26 episodes, ahead of <SteveKrutzler> time before you begin next season. That, to say the least, is mondo <SteveKrutzler> exciting. Can you tell us anymore about that process?

<IraBehr> I don't think we should put too much emphasis on that idea.

<IraBehr> It's something I've been kicking around since the middle of this season, basically to keep the writing

<IraBehr> staff focused and fierce for the final year. <IraBehr> But I have no idea whether it's going to work or not. <IraBehr> I'm sure that, throughout the season, many cool ideas will surface that will force us to head in directions <IraBehr> we hadn't thought of previously. <IraBehr> As a plan of action, it's a great idea.

<IraBehr> But as we all know, the best laid plans of mice and men...# <StevePerry> YET ANOTHER NOTE FOR QUESTION ASKERS: No need to reply to my return comments to you with "Thanks," "OK," etc. I've got eight people at once asking me stuff, and I feel like a certain ocean liner as a result.

<SteveKrutzler> From Psi Phi: With the phenomenal success of "The Ferengi Rules of Acquisition", "Legends <SteveKrutzler> of the Ferengi", and the audiobook of "Legends" (all still available in <SteveKrutzler> bookstores), will Quark be writing a third Ferengi book (as told by you and <SteveKrutzler> Hans Beimler, perhaps)?

<IraBehr> It's not something I'm planning to do. <IraBehr> I recently wrote the introduction to the DS9 Technical Manual that will be published in October.

<IraBehr> None of these projects were originated by me. <IraBehr> It was, basically, Pocket Books saying they wanted to do a book and would I be willing.

<IraBehr> But I truly don't believe we could do a better job than "Legends of the Ferengi".

<IraBehr> For better or worse, that about sums up everything I have to say about Ferengi culture, at least in <IraBehr> book form. <IraBehr> #

<SteveKrutzler> From RobinSmith: Considering "In the Pale Moonlight," do you feel Sisko is going own a path different from the one chosen for him by the Prophets?

<SteveKrutzler> own=down

<IraBehr> Well, RobinSmith, I hope you don't consider this a cop out, but I really can't answer that question <IraBehr> until you see the season finale.#

<SteveKrutzler> :-)

<SteveKrutzler> Brunt, FCA: What are you going to do after DS9 finishers. Go to Voyager, ST movie? <SteveKrutzler> Voyager needs a good writer like you! <StevePerry> touche

<IraBehr> Just knowing that someone has the handle "Brunt, FCA" makes my heart sore like an eagle as they <IraBehr> said in "Little Big Man". <IraBehr> I'm not sure what the future holds. <IraBehr> I think it highly unlikely that it holds Voyager. <IraBehr> But this is show business, so you never really know. <IraBehr> But, as far as having aTrek experience, I can't conceive of a better one than DS9... <IraBehr> at least for me. <IraBehr> And I suppose that's true for anyone named "Brunt, FCA". <IraBehr> #

<SteveKrutzler> From Berserker: Anything you can tell us about Valiant or Profit and Lace? You reckon you <SteveKrutzler> could tell us something about The Reckoning?

<IraBehr> I have now done these interviews enough, that I'm beginning to recognize people's screen names. <IraBehr> It's the BERSERKER... run for your lives!

<SteveKrutzler> sure enough, it's he who had about a million questions asked at your last Continuum chat... :-)

<IraBehr> Well, Berserk (if I can be so informal), it's a little hard to go into any detail about each individual episode. <IraBehr> But I will say this: the three that you mention, cover the entire spectrum of what DS9 has to offer. <IraBehr> "The Valiant" is a kickass action show that questions fundamental attitudes about Starfleet, <IraBehr> the Federation, glory, war and command. <IraBehr> "Profit and Lace" is another freakazoid Ferengi episode with Zek, Moogie and Brunt, which (now that I <IraBehr> think about it), <IraBehr> questions fundamental precepts of Ferengi society. <IraBehr> And "The Reckoning" is a pure example of DS9 taking Star Trek in directions it's never gone before. <IraBehr> It deals with faith, spirituality and good vs evil. <IraBehr> Take it all together and it sounds pretty good to me.#

<Berserker> Why thank you for answering my question! I suddenly feel that I have validation for all the time I've wasted on the internet!

<SteveKrutzler> hehe

<IraBehr> Bersker... <IraBehr> if you think it's a waste of time, by all means, pick up a book and read it. <IraBehr> #

<SteveKrutzler> touche

<SteveKrutzler> :-) <SteveKrutzler> going on to our next question... This one from myself: can you tell us the title of the finale? Rumor has it that it's called "Tears of the Prophets," or something to that effect...

<IraBehr> That be the title... at least for now. <IraBehr> But rumors always make me feel uncomfortable. <IraBehr> I'll have to debug the office again.#

<SteveKrutzler> hehe, that's amazing

<SteveKrutzler> hehe, seems like there is a pretty effective spy there somewhere! <SteveKrutzler> From SueDS9: We have watched our usual O'Brien suffering eps. and I am just curious <SteveKrutzler> if you are keeping his character in more b-story lines because not to <SteveKrutzler> many O'Brien lead stories have come along or will we get a taste of one <SteveKrutzler> more storyline that will center around O'Brien??? To me every season <SteveKrutzler> it seems every character gets two stories and "Honor Among Thieves" was <SteveKrutzler> the first and hoping for a second for O'Brien, since you got an actor like <SteveKrutzler> Colm that can pull anything off what ever you ask him.

<IraBehr> There will be a second O'Brien show. <IraBehr> And he will suffer in it.#

<SteveKrutzler> LOL <SteveKrutzler> poor Miles <

StevePerry> Poor Miles...

<SteveKrutzler> From ToraZiyal: Does Sisko's opinion of Section 31 contradict his actions in Pale Moonlight?

<IraBehr> Which ToraZiyal am I talking to?

<IraBehr> I know of three, off hand.

<IraBehr> I don't think Sisko's opinion of Section 31 contradicts "In the Pale Moonlight". <IraBehr> But there will be more of Section 31 to come. <IraBehr> I'm not sure Sisko's opinion of it won't change.#

<SteveKrutzler> From Jose: Its seems that pretty much the entire writing staff agreed that "Let He Who <SteveKrutzler> Is Without Sin" was the one episode that just plain didn't work last season. <SteveKrutzler> Any agreement on an episode this season that you'd all like another crack <SteveKrutzler> at?

<IraBehr> Ask me again next season after all the episodes have been through post-production and I will

<IraBehr> gladly give you an answer.#

<SteveKrutzler> He Might Be a Giant: Kudos on Far Beyond, one of DS9's best. So, do you think that making it <SteveKrutzler> all a dream makes it more poignant, or does it gut the story? :)

<IraBehr> I'm not sure it was a dream.#

<SteveKrutzler> Commander Tomalok: I've got a bad feeling that Far Beyond won't win the Hugo because of another <SteveKrutzler> show that will remain nameless. What are your feelings about the Hugo?

<StevePerry> Far Beyond is eligible next year, by the way

<IraBehr> A lot of people have been asking me about "Far Beyond the Stars" and the Hugo.

<IraBehr> So I'll just repeat what I've said before... <IraBehr> our goal is to put out the best 26 hours of television that we possibly can. <IraBehr> We try to make each episode as interesting and as entertaining as our meager talents allow.

<IraBehr> After that, it's out of my hands and I try not to loose a lot of sleep over what happens next...

<IraBehr> that includes awards, critical opinion, fan reaction... I mean, I have a healthy ego and I want to be <IraBehr> as loved and admired as the next guy. <IraBehr> But I really can't allow my head to explode about what happens after the shows are in the can. <IraBehr> #

<SteveKrutzler> From Sherri Ko: For the sake of posterity, could you, pretty please, have cameos of all the
<SteveKrutzler> writers in DS9's last season?
<IraBehr> Actually, when I was producing the TV show "Fame", I did a cameo in the last episode with one
<IraBehr> of the other producers.
<IraBehr> I'd love us all to have a cameo on DS9.
<IraBehr> But I have a hunch that we're going to be beau coup busy.
<IraBehr> So, I can't say that it will happen.
<IraBehr> Besides, we'd have to all play aliens, because none of use look particularly human.
<IraBehr> #
<SteveKrutzler> LOL
<StevePerry> he he
<SteveKrutzler> ThunderLove: Are the relationships between the DS9 staff and Rick Berman different than
<SteveKrutzler> that between Voyager's staff and Berman? DS9 seems not to be quite so
<SteveKrutzler> worried about ratings...
<SteveKrutzler> with Voyager trying more "stunt" ideas in its
<SteveKrutzler> stories. Would DS9 be different if it were on a network?
<StevePerry> ooh, a ratings question
<IraBehr> Cool name, ThunderLove.
<IraBehr> It's a complicated question that seems to have more than one part.
<IraBehr> Working backwards, I'm sure DS9 WOULD be different if it were on a network.
<IraBehr> I think we'd have a lot more interference.
<IraBehr> And some of our less traditional stories would probably get a lot of flack.
<IraBehr> I'm not sure what Rick's relationship is with Voyager, but on DS9 he's been nothing but supportive.
<IraBehr> He and Michael Piller gave me the ball and said "run with it", and they haven't asked for it back yet.
<IraBehr> #
<SteveKrutzler> you've certainly run the right direction, in my opinion anyway.
<SteveKrutzler> our next question, from Ina: Ron Moore said you toyed with the idea of Kira Meru's being Ziyal's
<SteveKrutzler> mother but dropped it. Can you tell us what factors caused you not to go
<SteveKrutzler> in this direction?
<SteveKrutzler> I for one thought that it would have been a poignant
<SteveKrutzler> piece of irony, considering how close Major Kira and Ziyal were.
<IraBehr> It was an idea that had been raised.
<IraBehr> But it started to feel like DS9 was heading into Eugene O'Neill territory.
<IraBehr> I think it was better to keep it simple.
<StevePerry> i actually got that..
<IraBehr> Obviously, it kept the focus on Kira.
<IraBehr> I'd just like to take a moment to say how much I admire Nana Visitor's work.
<SteveKrutzler> here here!
<IraBehr> I try not to kiss the actors' asses too much, but she is an absolute pro.
<StevePerry> ah yes, an excellent actress!
<IraBehr> #
<SteveKrutzler> hehe
<SteveKrutzler> gotta love chatting with Ira Behr :-)
<SteveKrutzler> This one, from Robin: Was the idea of Odo remaining a turncoat entertained much?
<IraBehr> It was entertained, and dropped.
<IraBehr> #
<SteveKrutzler> Another from good 'ole self: We believe that DS9 should get its chance at the big screen. Although this
<SteveKrutzler> is unlikely, will you leave the show open to further development after the
<SteveKrutzler> series finale...
<SteveKrutzler> and if the opportunity presented itself after the TNG movies,
<SteveKrutzler> would you take it upon yourself to convince the Paramount big-whigs that DS9
<SteveKrutzler> could be a successful movie franchise?
<IraBehr> Obviously the thought of the Dominon war being transferred to the big screen in 2:35 Panavision is
<IraBehr> enough to make me want to pray at the urn of Gene Roddenberry himself.
<SteveKrutzler> hehehe
<IraBehr> Shapeshifting, Founders, wormhole experiences up the kazoo... these are a few of my favorite things.
<IraBehr> But is this going to actually happen in a reality beyond the parameters of my own imagination?
<IraBehr> I don't think so.
<IraBehr> But one can dream.#
<SteveKrutzler> unfortunate for Paramount then.
<SteveKrutzler> if only they gave DS9 the respect it deserves. :-(
<SteveKrutzler> Gotta love this handle...from Uncle Wacky: Ira, thanks for being here. Where do you see yourself in ten years?
<IraBehr> What scares me is that I once wrote a Fame episode entitled "Mister Wacky".
<IraBehr> And Mister Wacky was played by Garrett Graham who has been on DS9 and Voyager.
<IraBehr> And to think, now I'm talking to his uncle...
<SteveKrutzler> hehe
<IraBehr> In ten years, I see myself surfing the net, saying "this is Ira Steven Behr... remember me? I used to work
<IraBehr> on DS9."
<IraBehr> Somebody send me a pickle.
<IraBehr> #
<SteveKrutzler> lol
<SteveKrutzler> from Kevin Urciolo: Will we see the war conclude far enough before the end of the series to
<SteveKrutzler> explore new themes?
<IraBehr> I don't think the war has kept us from exploring new themes.
<IraBehr> #
<SteveKrutzler> from Beamer: Will the Romulans be present for the rest of the season and next season
<SteveKrutzler> and will they have a big impact on the war?
<IraBehr> The Romulans will be around.
<IraBehr> At this point, I don't see them having a huge role.
<IraBehr> But, inspiration may change that.#
<SteveKrutzler> no big Rommie fleet in "Tears..." eh? :-)
<IraBehr> There's a Romulan presence in
<IraBehr> the final episode.
<IraBehr> But right now, I just see them being an extra spice to the mix.
<IraBehr> I don't see them, necessarily, being a main ingredient.
<IraBehr> #
<SteveKrutzler> at least they're finally joining the party.
<SteveKrutzler> from Gladius Dei: Do you think Section 31 is contrary to Star Trek ideals?
<IraBehr> What do you think, Gladius Dei?
<IraBehr> #
<SteveKrutzler> hehe
<SteveKrutzler> been talking to Ron Moore about that argument? :-)
<StevePerry> Moore has to deal with that question all the time on AOL
<SteveKrutzler> this one's from JimmyBlakely: How does it feel being the executive producer of the best show America is
<SteveKrutzler> not watching?
<IraBehr> It makes me feel like dancing.#
<SteveKrutzler> lol
<SteveKrutzler> Smorgas of Borg: Read any good books lately?
<IraBehr> Yes... I just happen to have a list with me.
<SteveKrutzler> hehe
<IraBehr> "Muscle for the Wing"... a novel by Daniel Woodrell...
<IraBehr> "The Death of Che Guevera"... a novel by Jay Cantor...
<IraBehr> "The Napoleon of Crime"... about the real-life crook that Prof. Moriarity was based on...
<IraBehr> "Dark Ride"... novel by Kent Harrington...
<IraBehr> "Down by the River Where the Dead Men Go"... by George Pelecanos...
<IraBehr> ...and I'm currently in the middle of reading "Confederates in the Attic" by Tony Horwitz...
<IraBehr> which is non-fiction about Civil War reenactors.#
<SteveKrutzler> from Ev Sagan: Mr. Behr, will Dukat be returned to sanity by the end of the 6th season?
<SteveKrutzler> and - I really like the shades of grey that are being explored in episodes
<SteveKrutzler> like Inquisition and Pale Moonlight, gives the show a lot of complexity and
<SteveKrutzler> depth! Thank you :)
<IraBehr> I'll leave you to be the judge of whether Dukat is insane or not.
<StevePerry> Another question... JakeO wants to know if you've read Toni Morrison's Paradise and what you felt about it.
<IraBehr> As for complexity, why the hell not?!
<IraBehr> TV tends to give simple answers to complicated problems.
<IraBehr> If we can do anything, it would be to pose complicated problems and leave it to the audience to
<SteveKrutzler> indeed, 'tis true all too many times
<IraBehr> provide the solution.
<IraBehr> #
<SteveKrutzler> ok Emony, here's yours' :-) : Dax's departure has led many to speculate that she left because of a lack of screen time. Do you sometimes feel that you have too many characters to work with?
<IraBehr> I would say that as far as I know, that is not why Terry chose to leave.
<IraBehr> I can't look into her heart, but from my conversations with her, it wasn't about screen time.
<IraBehr> Sometimes I feel we have too many characters, sometimes I feel we don't have enough.
<IraBehr> #
<SteveKrutzler> AndrewR: Who do the Dominion have for engineers? like their ship builders geneticists
<SteveKrutzler> etc, I can't see Vorta getting their hands dirty nor Jem'Hadar being having
<SteveKrutzler> much expertise outside of killing/maiming circles.
<IraBehr> The Dominion has many worlds under their sway... many races, many cultures...
<IraBehr> #
<SteveKrutzler> Some praise...William John Dwyer: It's not really a question but, I wanted to send congrats to you for the
<SteveKrutzler> show 'Far Beyond The Stars'. The show really ment something to me. (Plus to see what our favorite actors/actresses really look like is candy in itself!)
<SteveKrutzler> I was really moved by the show, and I have to say to everyone who thought Brooks was 'Overreacting' really dosn't know what racism is or does to a person. Congrats again!
<IraBehr> Thank you, William John Dwyer.
<IraBehr> Obviously, "Far Beyond the Stars" was a show we took very seriously.
<IraBehr> It's great to get so much positive feedback.
<IraBehr> I think that we were lucky to do a show about a "issue" and make it interesting beyond just the usual
<IraBehr> fingerpointing.
<IraBehr> But the way this century is ending for American, in a lot of ways, really disturbs me.
<IraBehr> And at times, I fear that the heart of darkness that has been at the center of this country since
<IraBehr> it's inception, seems to be growing rather than shrinking.
<IraBehr> Don't get me wrong, it's still a country of great possibilities, but people better wake the hell up real soon
<IraBehr> or else things are going to get quite grim.
<IraBehr> #
<SteveKrutzler> gotta agree with that. FBtS really was one of the best.

[Ira and Mike were inadvertantly knocked off due to Win95 and connection problems]

<SteveKrutzler> giddyup
<SteveKrutzler> We're back!
<StevePerry> Elvis has entered the building
<SteveKrutzler> thank the Prophets
<SteveKrutzler> I believe Ira would like to make a brief comment...
<IraSteveBehr> I apologize for the delay, but you never know what's going to happen once the drugs kick in.
<IraSteveBehr> #
<SteveKrutzler> from RobinSmith: The Machiavellian philosophy of the end justifying the means has traditionally been a wrong in the Trek universe. Recent events have challenged this idea somewhat. What are your feelings on this
<SteveKrutzler> ?
<IraSteveBehr> My feelings are that we are a TV series and we get to explore ideas and possibilities.
<IraSteveBehr> That's what we try to do.
<IraSteveBehr> But I've found that Star Trek fans have never been shy about forming own opinions and attitudes.
<IraSteveBehr> I think that's a good thing.
<IraSteveBehr> I really don't feel comfortable trying to explain or expound on the content of the shows.
<IraSteveBehr> Also, I feel that we're playing in a very specific universe.
<IraSteveBehr> It's a 24th century paradise that we've accepted for so long.
<IraSteveBehr> So I think anything that forces the viewer to question those preconceived notions is a good thing.
<IraSteveBehr> Otherwise, the whole franchise will go stale... and that would be bad.#
<SteveKrutzler> another from the infamous Berserker: About Wrongs Darker... to say the least, I was confused by the chronology of the episode, 1)because I didn't think Dukat was that old and 2)I didn't think Terok Nor was that old. Anyway we can work around that little problem?
<IraSteveBehr> Actually, it does fit in the chronology.
<IraSteveBehr> You're just going to have to take my word for this one, at least for the time being.
<IraSteveBehr> At least until the next Okuda book comes out.
<StevePerry> he he
<IraSteveBehr> #
<StevePerry> Okuda saves the day
<SteveKrutzler> On the topic of "Wrongs Darker...," Percy Fish Shelley asks: Ron Moore said that originally Wrongs Darker had a Mengelesque storyline. What made you switch to the story of Kira's mom?
<IraSteveBehr> Let's just say, we walked down the wrong path until the Prophets guided us to a new one.
<IraSteveBehr> #
<SteveKrutzler> From SteveO: Will Worf seek to avenge Dax's death next season, as another issue for him to deal with?
<IraSteveBehr> I think that Rene Echevarria just walked into the room, so I'm going to allow him to answer that question.
<StevePerry> uh oh!
<SteveKrutzler> Hey everyone..
<IraSteveBehr> Says Rene Echevarria: I would if I were him.
<IraSteveBehr> #
<SteveKrutzler> look at that, TrekWeb gives you Rene and Ira both in one night. :-)
<SteveKrutzler> Cainus: A few months ago there was a rumor that United Artists was suing Paramount
<SteveKrutzler> because of the episode "Our Man Bashir" and its resemblance to the Bond
<SteveKrutzler> franchise. Was there any validity to that rumor? Also are there any plans to
<SteveKrutzler> have another "Agent Bashir" episode?
<IraSteveBehr> I'll have to ask my lawyers.#
<SteveKrutzler> seriously?
<IraSteveBehr> I have no independent recollection of those events.
<SteveKrutzler> :-)
<IraSteveBehr> Says Rene Echevarria: And I like my martinis stirred and not shaken.
<SteveKrutzler> hehe
<StevePerry> Well, United Artists... Man in the Iron Mask. Feh, a lousy film
<IraSteveBehr> ho ho
<SteveKrutzler> hehe
<SteveKrutzler> From the big man himself, straight from deep inside Cardassia Prime, Weyoun asks: I believe you left us hanging in Waltz. Will Dukat confront Damar over the death of his daughter?
<IraSteveBehr> Once again, it's better if you watch the season finale.
<IraSteveBehr> It'll give you an answer better than I can.
<IraSteveBehr> #
<SteveKrutzler> From "The Reviewer" [here at TrekWeb.COM]: How do you and Hans work out the writing?
<IraSteveBehr> We do it much like I did it with Robert Wolfe and as I so memorably did with Rene on "Meridian".
<SteveKrutzler> Rene still in the room, huh? hehe... :-)
<IraSteveBehr> Someone sits at the computer, and that someone isn't me.
<StevePerry> Meridian. I'm sorry, Rene. You made up for it in spades with "Children of Time."
<StevePerry> (Ducks)
<SteveKrutzler> LOL
<SteveKrutzler> Rene's gonna deck you Perry
<IraSteveBehr> That's because I wasn't sitting there helping him.
<SteveKrutzler> LOL
<SteveKrutzler> you better duck now
<IraSteveBehr> #
<SteveKrutzler> :-)
<SteveKrutzler> from Rollo Tomasi: I like the Ferengi, but I will confess that I enjoy Quark most when he is doing dramatic stuff, such as saving Rom and Kira. Don't get me wrong; I like the humor, but I was wondering if Quark could do some non humor stuff too
<IraSteveBehr> Quark will continue to do "serious stuff".
<IraSteveBehr> But he does provide a certain color to the show that none of our other characters really do.
<IraSteveBehr> #
<SteveKrutzler> Berserker can't be stopped... : With Dax going, the male/female balance is going to tilt quite a bit. Anyway Dax will have a replacement that so happens to be female/major babe?
<IraSteveBehr> There will be another Dax... more details to follow.
<StevePerry> hmm...
<SteveKrutzler> UH OH
<Arman> Hello All, sorry I'm late.
<SteveKrutzler> bombshell hath been dropped
<SteveKrutzler> [Arman is TrekWeb's AOL correspondant]
<IraSteveBehr> #
<SteveKrutzler> Get this... from the "Doge of Arkansas" (hehe): I find Dukat to be fascinating character study. Did you look into past dictators, etc, to research him? Or did it just flow naturally from what the character had previously done?
<IraSteveBehr> Dukat is fun to write, basically, because he's a character who truly lacks self-knowledge...
<IraSteveBehr> or at least he did when he was sane.
<IraSteveBehr> Actually, his insanity has proven to be quite healthy for him.
<IraSteveBehr> #
<SteveKrutzler> from JC2astro: Is Dukat experiencing the cycle of grief? (Morning, disbelief, anger, depression, acceptance [not necessary in that order/name])?
<SteveKrutzler> morning=mourning
<IraSteveBehr> To be honest, I don't think Dukat has genuine emotional responses like we do.
<IraSteveBehr> I think his relationship with his daughter was tied into his view of himself.
<IraSteveBehr> Or at least how he wanted to view himself.
<IraSteveBehr> #
<SteveKrutzler> from Tora Ziyal (number four!): Will this "new" Dax be a recurring character?
<IraSteveBehr> C'mon, guys. Let's leave some surprises for the 7th season.#
<SteveKrutzler> d'oh!
<SteveKrutzler> from Eric Price: I was just wondering if we are going
<SteveKrutzler> to see anymore of Worf's brother
<SteveKrutzler> Kurn (now Lodik?) I really miss
<SteveKrutzler> that character. Thanks and keep up
<SteveKrutzler> the great work.
<IraSteveBehr> Right now, we have no definite plans for Kurn.
<IraSteveBehr> But it is the 7th season, afterall, and we are looking to touch all the bases.
<IraSteveBehr> #
<SteveKrutzler> Here's one that's always elusive, from RMS: When will we see Odo's Cardassian neck trick?
<IraSteveBehr> That's going to be in the spinoff: "Odo, P.I.".#
<SteveKrutzler> that question is always as slippery as Odo in his gelatinous state
<SteveKrutzler> (sorry, lame joke) :-)
<SteveKrutzler> from Jose: In your estimation, how does this season of DS9 compare to the previous ones in terms of overall quality?
<IraSteveBehr> This was an extremely tough season in terms of the work involved.
<IraSteveBehr> Let's just say, I don't think the show's declining in quality.#
<SteveKrutzler> From Zurgon: Several years from now, when you look back at DS9, what parts of the show do you want to be most proud of?
<IraSteveBehr> That is a loaded question.
<IraSteveBehr> It can be answered in many different ways.
<IraSteveBehr> Right now, I just prefer to say that I'm very proud of the show.
<IraSteveBehr> #
<SteveKrutzler> From RS: Do the actors ever disagree with their character development? If so, how much of the show has been changed as a result?
<IraSteveBehr> I think the show has changed a lot from what the actors have brought to their roles.
<IraSteveBehr> As I've said in the past, Odo, Dax, Sisko and others have all developed beyond their initial paramenters,
<IraSteveBehr> because of the way each actor played the role.
<IraSteveBehr> I think that's a good thing.
<IraSteveBehr> I'm sure the actors disagree, at least in the small details, with us more than the lead on.
<IraSteveBehr> But as far as the picture goes, I don't think they have much to complain about.#
<SteveKrutzler> From Van: DS9 "fish out of water" episodes like Far Beyond the Stars, Our Man Bashir, and the Tribbles one are a hoot. Are these kinds of stories the most spongeworthy for Paramount?
<IraSteveBehr> What does "spongeworthy" mean?
<IraSteveBehr> #
<StevePerry> It's a Seinfeld joke
<SteveKrutzler> ah
<IraSteveBehr> Sorry, I don't watch much television.#
<StevePerry> I think.. yes, I remember now. You don't want to know!
<IraSteveBehr> Okay by me.#
<SteveKrutzler> was thinking more along the lines of marketability in 2nd run syndication
<SteveKrutzler> From Danny: I enjoy unusual episodes with unsual formats, such as the upcoming "The Sound of Her Voice". Any way season seven could include more of that experimentation?
<IraSteveBehr> We see every show as an experiment.
<IraSteveBehr> We never know what's going to grow in our petri dish.#
<SteveKrutzler> apparently this time, someone's voice.
<SteveKrutzler> ok, ok, I'll stop... I'm not a comedian.
<SteveKrutzler> From Jose: Ira, are there any plans for you guys to do another multi-episode arc any time during next season? Be a shame to just do it once.
<IraSteveBehr> I look at seasons six and seven as one lone, multi-arc episode.
<IraSteveBehr> If I were being honest, I had to say that I see the entire series as one long, multi-arc episode.
<IraSteveBehr> When you think that the Dominion was first mentioned in a second season Ferengi episode,
<IraSteveBehr> you gotta start figuring that the whole thing is one of those novel-for-television sort of deals.
<IraSteveBehr> Maybe we need to get Richard Chamberlain as a guest star before the series is over to have everyone
<IraSteveBehr> suss it out.
<IraSteveBehr> #
<SteveKrutzler> From Manos, the Hand of Fate: The war arc was great but it took attention away from the war itself. With these individual stories happening, the fact that a war was going on got lost in the picture. Any way of changing that, without beating the war over our heads?
<IraSteveBehr> The Hand of Fate is like the Prophets... its meaning can be obscure, though profound.#
<SteveKrutzler> From Robin: DS9 is as much drama as science fiction. Do you take much inpsiration from the field of science fiction itself?
<IraSteveBehr> I take inspiration from everything... every book I ever read, every movie I ever watched, every person
<IraSteveBehr> I've ever known...
<IraSteveBehr> but I do agree that DS9 is as much drama as science fiction.
<IraSteveBehr> #
<SteveKrutzler> From Arman: Much has been said about how the DS9 cast and crew are not into having "fun" or practical jokes as the TNG or Voyager cast, they are just there to do their job and go home. Can you shed any light on this? Are the cast and crew really not so happy to be there?
<IraSteveBehr> I was there during the third season of TNG and I don't remember the crew being all that happy.
<IraSteveBehr> By the sixth year of a TV show, it's amazing that people are still speaking to each other, given
<IraSteveBehr> the amount of pressure involved in putting out a weekly TV series.
<IraSteveBehr> And I think it's pretty silly that people who spend at least 13 hours on a sound stage just want to do
<IraSteveBehr> their job and go home.
<IraSteveBehr> If I was them, at the end of hour 13, I'd want to go home, too.
<IraSteveBehr> #
<SteveKrutzler> Berserker strikes again: OK, this isn't me, but other people. A lot of people say that the war advances militaristic values and is generally anti-Trek and anti-Roddenberry, since Trek is supposedly about exploration. your thoughts?
<IraSteveBehr> I think Trek is about a lot of things.
<IraSteveBehr> A lot of different types of explorations.
<IraSteveBehr> One of these happens to be war.
<IraSteveBehr> At least at this moment in time on DS9.
<IraSteveBehr> I don't think we're saying that war is fun or a good thing... once again, I think we're just exploring
<IraSteveBehr> the concept and letting the audience decide.
<IraSteveBehr> But this whole idea of being anti-Trek amuses me.
<IraSteveBehr> Certainly, TNG was very different from TOS.
<IraSteveBehr> And I think DS9 has the right to be different from TNG.
<IraSteveBehr> But we don't set out to be anti-Trek or anti-Roddenberry...
<IraSteveBehr> ... all we want to do is shake the tree and see what falls out.
<IraSteveBehr> Sometimes the coconut lands on our heads, sometimes it doesn't.
<IraSteveBehr> #
<SteveKrutzler> incidentially, Ron didn't happen to mention the whole Anti-Trek thing to ya did he? He got into a pretty heavy debate with the originator of that statement a couple weeks ago.
<IraSteveBehr> Ron likes to debate.
<IraSteveBehr> He feels very passionately about Star Trek.
<IraSteveBehr> I feel very passionate about DS9.#
<SteveKrutzler> ahh, well said.
<SteveKrutzler> Ron is very fervid and active regarding such debates.
<SteveKrutzler> He Might be a Giant: Will Odo face the female shifter in a test of loyalty and love before the year is out?
<IraSteveBehr> I think certainly before the SERIES ends he will.#
*
<SteveKrutzler> from Malaci Throne: Who is your dream guest star? How about casting me, Malachi Throne?
<StevePerry> Malachi Throne, a guest actor for TOS I believe...
<IraSteveBehr> We actually had Malachi Throne in for an audition a couple of months ago, and I wouldn't be surprised
<IraSteveBehr> if we had him in again.#
<StevePerry> Cool!
<SteveKrutzler> Dukat seeks: Might we see Ziyal in the Mirror Universe, it would be interesting to see Dukat's dilemma?
<IraSteveBehr> Only if we hire another actress to play her...
<StevePerry> ha ha
<IraSteveBehr> ... not that I have anything against Melanie Smith...
<IraSteveBehr> but I see the part of Tora Ziyal as our Felix Leiter.
<IraSteveBehr> You can never recast that role enough.
<SteveKrutzler> hehe
<StevePerry> (Felix Leiter was the CIA agent in the Bond movies.. one movie he was old and white, then young and black, etc..)
<SteveKrutzler> maybe she'll be a Klingon next too!
<IraSteveBehr> Just to see how the fans are willing to suspend disbelief.
<IraSteveBehr> #
<SteveKrutzler> Wormhole: Will the wormhole ever be open again?
<IraSteveBehr> That's one of those stay-tuned-and-find-out kind of questions.#
<SteveKrutzler> From Bombata: How are the Ferengi handling the Dominion War?
<StevePerry> Matt, ask me directly
<IraSteveBehr> I'm sure they're earning a tidy profit.#
<SteveKrutzler> Leboom: You imply that Ron feels passionately about Star Trek and you more to DS9. By making this statement you are implying that you have no regard for 30 years of established Trek philosophy and history but for whatever DS9 establishes?
<IraSteveBehr> Was that what I was implying?
<IraSteveBehr> I don't think so.
<IraSteveBehr> But I can see how you could read it that way.
<IraSteveBehr> I am well aware of 30 years of Star Trek philosophy and history.
<IraSteveBehr> I just think it's there to be used as a tool, and I definitely think it can be questioned.
<IraSteveBehr> And, personally, I think the best thing about it is that it gives us something to explore on DS9.#
<SteveKrutzler> From rms: Many of the star actors have said in interviews that they are sometimes unhappy with continuity between the characters...
<SteveKrutzler> ... i.e. one week two characters hate each other or go through a terrible ordeal with each other and then next week there is no evidence of the events of the last episode. Do you think this is a valid point?
<IraSteveBehr> Give me an example.#
<SteveKrutzler> doh!
<SteveKrutzler> From Carl: Do you have a favorite musician besides Iggy Pop?
<IraSteveBehr> Frank Sinatra Sr., Frank Sinatra Jr., Ian Dury, Lee Ving, Bob Dylan, Gang of Four...
<IraSteveBehr> there are others, but as I've revealed before, Iggy is God.#
<SteveKrutzler> From Corran: When will we next see a fleet as big as the one in Sacrifice?
<IraSteveBehr> Watch the last episode of the season.#
<SteveKrutzler> uh oh
<SteveKrutzler> don't tease
<SteveKrutzler> :-)
<SteveKrutzler> From bauchau: Do you have any influence on the
<SteveKrutzler> special effects on DS9 ?
<IraSteveBehr> I have an opinion, I voice it... people tend to listen.
<IraSteveBehr> That goes with the job.
<IraSteveBehr> But the special effects guys make it happen.
<IraSteveBehr> And they do a way cool job of it, too.
<IraSteveBehr> #
<SteveKrutzler> From Matt: Why does DS9 seem to take so many risks, while TNG seemed more play it safe?
<IraSteveBehr> I think TNG was a show that took itself very seriously.
<IraSteveBehr> I think Gene wanted a show that he had progressed beyond the Capt. Kirk philosophy of life.
<IraSteveBehr> Chuck Jones once said that we all want to be Bugs Bunny, but in reality we know we're Daffy Duck.
<IraSteveBehr> I think we all want to be living in the clean, righteous corridors of the Enterprise, but we're actually
<IraSteveBehr> living on Deep Space Nine.
<IraSteveBehr> I think we have to do the best job we can while we're there.#
<SteveKrutzler> From Steavis: Why does DS9 seem to take so many risks, while TNG seemed more play it safe?
<IraSteveBehr> #
<StevePerry> We just asked that!
<Arman> hehe
<SteveKrutzler> From Arman: oops
<SteveKrutzler> hehe
<SteveKrutzler> What I actually meant was :-): DS9 this season has been absolutely incredible. My question: Why have the Prophets take care of the Dominion instead of, say, having the Jem Hadar goof and come flying out of the wormhole, straight into the minefield? That would have been much more fun to watch.
<SteveKrutzler> From Steavis of course.
<IraSteveBehr> Okay, maybe next time that's how we'll do it.#
<SteveKrutzler> hehe, would've cost more too
<SteveKrutzler> From Arman: Do you feel that Voyager has hurt, and continues to hurt DS9's success?
<IraSteveBehr> I don't think about it much.
<IraSteveBehr> I'm too busy.
<IraSteveBehr> I just want to make sure that I don't hurt DS9.#
<SteveKrutzler> Steve Perry will now ask a question...
<StevePerry> Allright, I have a question. Obviously you try to avoid 20th century slang with the characters
<StevePerry> But have you ever played around with the idea of a 24th century slang? Just curious?#
<IraSteveBehr> Actually, we thought about it.
<IraSteveBehr> And it's a great idea.
<IraSteveBehr> But somehow it just doesn't seem part of that 30-year history.
<IraSteveBehr> So I guess in some ways, we are all prisoners of the past.
<IraSteveBehr> #
<SteveKrutzler> From Berserk-boy: I do not know if you saw the movie Wag to Dog, but it raised an interesting point. What DOES the producer do?
<SteveKrutzler> to=the
<IraSteveBehr> Obviously, he bends reality to his will.#
<SteveKrutzler> Arman: Music fans of Star Trek have often wondered why you, the producers, would not allow a more upbeat musical soundtrack for DS9 episodes (like the first two seasons of TNG). The music in recent years has not been as present as it used to be (with the exception of a few episodes). Any thoughts on this?
<IraSteveBehr> Watch "His Way".#
<SteveKrutzler> I thought "Far Beyond.." had a good track too
<IraSteveBehr> It sure did...
<StevePerry> Oh, I've heard rumors about His Way.. won't spoil though
<IraSteveBehr> ... and a lot of that was Avery Brooks.
<IraSteveBehr> He poured his heart and soul into that episode.#
<Arman> "I liked music from "sacrifice of Angels"
<SteveKrutzler> Avery composed?
<StevePerry> And did a damn good job
<IraSteveBehr> No, Avery didn't compose... he chose the music.
<IraSteveBehr> #
<SteveKrutzler> that makes more sense
<SteveKrutzler> A little something from myself: everyone's dying to know... when (or, will) the Founders pledge that "Cardassia is dead
<SteveKrutzler> be fulfilled?
<IraSteveBehr> Hasn't it been fulfilled already?#
<SteveKrutzler> you'd make a good Romulan
<SteveKrutzler> hehe
<Arman> cryptic...
<SteveKrutzler> From Toral: We have had time travel episodes to Earth's past. What about Bajor's?
<IraSteveBehr> "Wrongs Darker Than Death or Night" was a trip to Bajor's past.#
<SteveKrutzler> Well everyone..
<SteveKrutzler> I could always beg to hear more about the finale...
<SteveKrutzler> :-)
<SteveKrutzler> but we're just about out of questions
<StevePerry> Yeah, unless we ask him what his favorite food is or something
<SteveKrutzler> heheehe
<IraSteveBehr> Alright, guys...
<StevePerry> But this baby's at 3 hours, and was a @#$% good chat
<IraSteveBehr> to all of you out there in cyberspace, good night, keep watching the skies and drive home safely!
<SteveKrutzler> Thanks for joining us Ira... always proving that you're DA MAN for chats... just hit the 3-hour mark
<StevePerry> Yeah, thanks for coming and hanging out with us nerds
<SteveKrutzler> Sorry for the tech problems earlier, and we hope you'll join us again some time!
<IraSteveBehr> Sure enough!
<StevePerry> Yeah, blame Netscape!
<Arman> Thanks a lot for being here with us!
<SteveKrutzler> Good luck with all future events, and here's to DS9's 7th.
<SteveKrutzler> And thanks to Mike Mistovich for typing tonight!
<Arman> And a DS9 movie!
<IraSteveBehr> Good night, John Boy.
<StevePerry> And to some awards for Far Beyond!