Interesting, didn't realize planning for a series continuation got that far. I thought it was just Richard Hatch making a fan film.
I would think Benedict and Jefferson were too old to play leads in 2001. Maybe they would have been senior officers, taking over for Lorne Greene and Terry Carter.
I like the 2000s version. The plot definitely runs deeper, and I think there is more action overall (maybe?). But it is a little more somber than I'd like - I miss the Star Wars-ish adventure vibe of the original. And I really miss Stu Phillips' score. Also the charisma of a certain cast member...