Teal'c is a member of the alien race known as Jaffa, of the home planet Chulak. Similar to humans in overall appearance, Jaffas have an "X" shaped incision or marsupial pouch in the abdomen. When a Jaffa reaches approximately eight years of age, a Goa'uld larva, the infant form of a parasitic being, is placed in the Jaffa pouch in order to mature. There is a strong symbiotic relationship between them as the Jaffa is guaranteed powerful healing abilities and immunity to myriad diseases including all viral or bacterial infections for as long as he carries the symbiote. For this reason, Jaffa live to be very old. Teal'c, although he looks much younger, is actually over 90 years old. After a seven year gestation period, the mature Goa'uld parasite seeks out a new host, (usually human). All Jaffa have a mid-forehead tattoo or symbol indicating that they carry a Goa'uld symbiote. The Serpent Guards are the elite or royal guard of the Jaffa in service to the Goa'uld Apophis. They wear the heavily armored "serpent head" helmets. Teal'c had served as the First Prime of Apophis, but after aiding the SG-1 team during their first mission to Chulak, he left his family and culture behind and returned to Earth as a voluntary member of the SG-1 team. His main reason for joining SG-1 was to try to set straight the misdeeds of his past, and to win freedom for his people from the Goa'uld.

Played by CHRISTOPHER JUDGE

Although Christopher Judge seemed pre-destined to have a career in football after receiving a football scholarship from the University of Oregon, becoming a three time All-American and playing in the Hula Bowl, he always knew he wanted to be an actor.

While in Oregon, Judge entered a contest to host the West Coast FOX KLSR Morning Show. His witty five-minute monologue helped him beat out thousands of other hopefuls for the job. This break lead him to several guest star appearances on such television sitcoms as Martin, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Lush Life, and The Jamie Foxx Show. His guest starring roles on dramatic series included The Burning Zone, Wise Guy, 21 Jump Street, MacGyver, and Gabriel's Fire before becoming a series regular on Sirens where he played Richie Styles. Judge's feature film credits include lead roles in Cadence, Bird on a Wire, Little Feet, The Glory Years, and House Party II, where he played the memorable antagonist Miles. More recently, he appeared in Disney's Snow Dogs as Dr. Brooks.

Judge studied drama at the renowned Howard Fine Studio in Los Angeles and continues to be an avid athlete.

During the 1998-99 hiatus, Judge produced and starred in his first short film called Hacks.