@StarSancFar I always thought it weird that people who could speak many languages never really got to show it off (Daniel Jackson, Elizabeth Weir). But you're right - Helen has had longer to practice!
Amanda has said they wouldn't bring Ashley back JUST to please fans, so it had to be organic to a story. They had an idea to bring Ashley back in season 3 and season 4, but both didn't work out due to scheduling.
What a TERRIFIC interview! Thanks so much for doing/posting this!