Exploring Connections in Outlander: My Blood
This might make me a bit of an outlier, but I’m really looking forward to watching the new Starz series, Outlander: My Blood. It feels nostalgic to see a younger version of one of my favorite characters from Season 1, Ned Gowan. When I first encountered this charming Edinburgh lawyer, portrayed by Bill Patterson, he quickly became a friend to Claire (Caitriona Balfe) in that season.
In Outlander: My Blood, the character is played by Conner McNeill. He’s still that clever and friendly Ned Gowan we love. Interestingly, his closest companions in this series include Jamie’s fiery mother, Ellen (Harriet Slater), and Claire’s own father, Henry (Jeremy Irvine).
We’re only partway through the first season of Outlander: My Blood, but the friendship between Ned and Henry stands out as one of the most touching elements of this dramatic tale. They share personal sorrows and professional concerns. Jeremy Irvine, who plays Henry, mentioned that their bond even extends beyond the screen.
“Connor is fantastic and full of energy on set; it’s really fun,” Irvine said during a recent discussion.
He elaborated on why the friendship makes so much sense, especially since Henry is desperately searching for his pregnant wife, Julia (Hermione Colfield). “Henry’s in a world where he feels isolated. He carries a significant secret that not even Ned is privy to,” Irvine noted. “But with Ned, he finds these small, intimate moments, creating a unique connection.”
Irvine chuckled, suggesting that in an alternate timeline, their bond might evolve into something romantic, but for now, that’s just a thought.
As for Henry Beauchamp, the sole time traveler forging friendships in Scotland back in 1714, Outlander: My Blood also showcases Julia deepening her connection with Jamie’s father, Brian (Jamie Roy), in Episode 4. Their relationship grows as she acts as a bridge between him and Ellen.
Hermione Colfield expressed her hope for a blossoming friendship between the two strong mothers. “I certainly think Julia sees some of herself in Ellen. They’re both women who have faced challenges but continue to follow their hearts,” she shared.
While Outlander: My Blood might tug at our romantic heartstrings, it’s really the friendships that keep bringing us back.
