As the husband of the Cylon Sharon and the father of the first human-Cylon baby, Hera, pilot Karl Agathon (callsign "Helo") knows what it's like to be on the periphery of the Galactica's community. The days when his fellow officers publicly ostracized him for loving a "toaster" are over, but his colleagues are still sometimes disconcerted by his compassion not only for Cylons but also for marginalized humans within the fleet. He once sabotaged a plan to unleash a genocidal virus against the Cylons and has also defied the Galactica's leadership on behalf of persecuted Sagittaron refugees. Despite — or perhaps because of — this, Admiral Adama trusts Helo, assigning him to various critical leadership positions.
Before landing his role on Battlestar Galactica, Tahmoh Penikett starred in the final season of the critically acclaimed Canadian series The Cold Squad. His performance on that series earned him a LEO award nomination.
He has also guest-starred on a variety of other series, including a recurring role on Whistler (The N), Smallville and The L Word. He also stars in the short film Trapped Ashes, helmed by renowned director Monte Hellman, which debuted at the 2006 Cannes Film Festival. Penikett was in two films released in 2007: Trick 'r Treat (Warner Bros.) and The Green Chain (Movie Central).
Penikett was born in the city of Whitehorse, in the Yukon, and his background, which includes strong ties to the Upper Tanana tribe and their traditions, led him to his love of storytelling. He has a very strong connection and devotion to his family, with whom he spends time whenever possible.
In his spare time he enjoys a variety of athletic pursuits, including competitive kickboxing.
