I couldn’t resist writing about this topic. I mean, who on the planet Earth does NOT love OUTLANDER and the  indomitable, saliva-worthy Jamie Fraser? Lord help the poor bastard who miscasts the actors or fumbles the plot. The wrath of millions will come down upon them. So what’s so great about Jamie in OUTLANDER anyway?
MEN WANT TO BE HIM
Jamie is everything a man wishes he had–
1. a striking physique, but not in the usual way
3. a way with a sword, stick, horse, and best of all, his hands (a.k.a. he’s a badass warrior)
4. a sense of humor
Okay maybe men don’t want to be him during the whipping or prison horrors, but he has the best asset of all–
EVERY WOMAN WANTS HIM
And that’s because he’s–
1. strong but sensitive
2. deliciously masculine and brawny, tall and virile
3. funny
4. a sex god…or at least learns to be
5. forgiving
6. a family man to the death
Which leads us to my next question.
Who in tarnation will have the chutzpah to fill Jamie’s shoes on screen? I’m envisioning Chris Hemsworth with died red hair or a complete unknown scotsman.
Anyone have a better idea? Post your pictures or links and we’ll vote!
By the way, if you’re one of the few people left in the Milky Way Galaxy who hasn’t read this novel or the series, you’re missing out. BIG TIME. I haven’t met a woman OR man who doesn’t adore it, laugh at it, and cry with it.
Alternative Jamies:
1. @EddieLouise says cutie pie Andrew Rothney may be a better fit:
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About Heather Webb
Heather’s historical novels have received national starred reviews, been featured in print media including the New York Times and the Wall Street Journal, and have been chosen as a Goodreads Top Pick in 2015. To date, her books have sold in a dozen countries. She enjoys helping other writers and may often be found tweeting helpful links, writing craft articles, or speaking about the industry and her love of books at conferences and retreats. For more information, see her AUTHOR page.
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You are right – that pic of Chris has a certain something… still Jamie would never be caught dead dressed as Thor!
Here is the young actor I mentioned on Twitter. Remember, although we know and love Jamie as a grown man, in the first two books he is so young (just 19) so I think casting a younger actor and letting him grow into the role is appropriate.
http://www.castingcallpro.com/uk/file.php?uid=222419
I so agree, Louise. I’ll add Andrew’s picture to the post! đŸ˜‰
I had to see if you were just speculating or if a TV show is actually in the works (it is — here’s a link ). Being a fan of Battlestar Galactica, I’d say Ron Moore brings promise to the project; I admit, I *don’t* love Jamie Fraser. Sorry! I get the appeal but I had too many issues with that book and some of the directions the characters took to say I loved it. BUT, the book has left a lasting impression on me because I discuss it fairly regularly when it comes up. That’s what I love about books — what one person swoons over, I may find objection, but I can still find merit in the story. (I really wanted to like it, but when Claire punched a wolf I just kind of lost it).
Being a junkie for book-to-screen adaptations, I would definitely give the series a try. Especially considering Ron Moore and it would be on cable; best case scenario: Game of Thrones style show. Lesser good example: Trainwreck True Blood. Could go either way.
I hope some former BSG folks get cast. I can just see Gaius Baltar as some sort of smarmy Scotsman!
Stephanie, I actually love that you aren’t a huge fan. It makes for a much more interesting conversation. I couldn’t help but laugh when you brought up the whole ‘punching a wolf’ part. Lol! But yes, Ron Moore could bring a lot to the series, which is what I’m hoping for. Why I love the books so much goes beyond the characters . I adore the brawling scotsman, the descriptions, and the abundance of rich cultural references. Now let’s see what Ron makes of it! I’ll look up your suggestion of Gaius Baltar. đŸ™‚
I am drooling. Hemsworth. Gah…Curious about this book- how did it escape my radar? Especially since my WIP is called, “We are the Outlanders.” Will have to check it out especially because of the mixed thoughts.
Cheers!
OHHH, Outlander is one of my favorite books of all time. If you haven’t read it, I highly suggest you do! đŸ™‚