Robert Carlyle, most recently seen as Jack Bauer's cohort in 24: Redemption, has been chosen to headline the Stargate brand's third live-action series, Stargate Universe.

The Scottish actor will portray Dr. David Rush, the leader of a group of soldiers, scientists, and civilians that have been stranded on an ancient ship in outer space.

"We are very excited about having an actor of this caliber, around which we can build a strong, character-based series," series creators Brad Wright and Robert Cooper wrote to Michael Ausiello. "Robert Carlyle will engage a broad audience and we hope to deliver a show that demonstrates to new viewers that the loyalty of longtime fans of the Stargate franchise has been well-deserved."

Stargate Universe will premiere with a two-hour movie on Sci-Fi in July 2009.

Matt Richenthal is the Editor in Chief of TV Fanatic. Follow him on Twitter and on Google+.