Saul Tigh
The gruff Executive Officer hiding a Cylon secret in plain sight.
Colonel Saul Tigh, portrayed by Michael Hogan, is Galactica's XO (Executive Officer) and William Adama's second-in-command. A gruff militarist with an alcohol problem, his relationship to civilians and those under his command is often strained. One of the leaders of the human Resistance against the Cylon occupation on New Caprica, he is jailed and tortured, which embitters him even more. In the season three finale "Crossroads", Tigh learns that he is one of the Final Five Cylons.
Quick Facts
- Role
- Executive Officer (XO)
- Rank
- Colonel
Lore & Background
Saul Tigh serves as Galactica's Executive Officer and William Adama's second-in-command. He becomes one of the leaders of the human Resistance against the Cylon occupation on New Caprica, where he is jailed and tortured, an experience that embitters him even more. Nicholas Bigelow of Screen Rant called Tigh "a deeply flawed yet compelling character", noting that his transformation from a troubled man to a pivotal leader against the Cylons, and the life-altering revelation of his own Cylon nature, make him "a captivating study in imperfection". Screen Rant's Craig Elvy wrote that Tigh's best moment of character development in the series was the death of his troublesome wife Ellen at his hands, though it was later rendered "meaningless" by her resurrection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Saul Tigh?
Colonel Saul Tigh serves as the Executive Officer aboard Battlestar Galactica, acting as Commander Adama's loyal second-in-command throughout the fleet's exile. He is known for his gruff personality and heavy reliance on alcohol to cope with the stress of war.
What is Saul Tigh's secret?
Despite appearing human, Tigh is actually one of the Final Five Cylons who was placed in hiding among humanity before the Fall. He eventually regains his memories but chooses to remain loyal to Adama and the Colonial Fleet rather than his creators.
Does Saul Tigh betray humanity?
Although he is a Cylon, Tigh actively fights against his own kind and protects humans throughout the conflict. He ultimately sacrifices himself to prevent Cavil from revealing the truth about the Final Five to the human population.
More in Characters
Elsewhere in Battlestar Galactica
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