Jamie Roy | Stepping Into the World of Outlander: Blood Of My Blood

Photographed under the golden light of VULKAN-BELLO Media Group location in Los Angeles for our latest cover, Jamie Roy carries with him the presence of a man who has walked through centuries. In “Outlander: Blood of My Blood”, he doesn’t just act, he inhabits a layered, living history. The prequel’s sweeping landscapes, deep-rooted traditions, and emotionally charged relationships have found in Roy a performer who balances authenticity with a fresh, modern vitality. As he speaks, you sense both the awe of stepping into a beloved universe and the quiet determination to leave his own mark on it. Here, fresh from our shoot, Jamie tak

“Outlander: Blood of My Blood” dives into a rich, layered world of heritage and passion. What was the first moment on set when you felt you’d truly stepped into that universe?

I remember the first day we shot at Doune Castle (which doubles for Castle Leoch in the show) and I remember thinking “wow this is incredible”, because I was surrounded by hundreds of supporting artists, incredible set designs and of course lots of animals! That for me was the first time I really felt like I was transported in time, and had to give myself a wee pinch.

This prequel has the challenge of honoring the original while carving its own identity. How did you balance staying true to the *Outlander* spirit while creating something entirely your own?

I think that’s something that the writers of the show have done so well in. There are plenty of Easter eggs that are sprinkled in throughout the first season that avid fans are sure to pick up on. And the general tone of the show definitely has that *Outlander* trademark. But since we have such a big ensemble of amazing actors, our show has the ability to focus on several stories at once to keep things fresh and moving.

The show lives in a time of deep traditions and hidden tensions. Which aspect of that period, social, emotional, or political, did you find most fascinating to inhabit?

Great question! I think for me, seeing the way that women were treated during this time period was exceptionally difficult to get a grasp of. Thankfully, my character doesn’t buy into this way of thinking and is quite ahead of his time, but he still has to witness (and accept, to an extent) the abuse and lack of agency women had during this time. It’s difficult!

Your character’s relationships seem to be charged with unspoken emotion. How do you, as an actor, tap into that kind of layered intimacy on screen?

Brian is certainly a thinker rather than a speaker (although he does have some lovely words!). I love to do a lot of imagination and dream work as Brian. Imagining all the possibilities his life might have, all the conversations he would have with people, what his hopes and dreams are etc. Doing a lot of this prep work beforehand means that when it comes to the day, I can lean on all those thoughts I’ve had previously as Brian, and it stirs up a lot of emotions.

“Outlander” fans are famously passionate. How has stepping into this world changed the way you connect with an audience?

I’ve always wanted to tell stories which mean something to people, so already to have such a passionate fan base who care means the world to me. I love seeing and hearing people’s reactions to the episodes, and I’m just very lucky to be in this position.

Many actors speak of certain scenes that change them, not just as performers, but as people. Was there a moment in filming this season that left you personally transformed?

There certainly was. There is a scene in episode 9 that is quite heart-wrenching. But I’m not going to say any more about that one until it comes out!! But once you see it, you’ll know exactly what I mean.

If your character could step out of 18th-century Scotland and into present-day life, what do you think would shock him most… and what might he secretly love?