Period drama and fantasy fans have yet another show to sink their teeth into, and this brand-new spin-off is already sending viewers into a frenzy.
The bestselling historical fantasy book series by Diana Gabaldon was adapted into a TV show that went on to have an impressive seven seasons, with an eighth on its way, and now fans have been given even more to digest. That’s right, Outlander has released a spin-off series for those who just can’t wait for the next season.
After the huge success of the original show, Outlander: Blood of My Blood is set to explore the time-bending love stories of both Claire and Jamie’s parents, the two protagonists viewers already know and love. This time, they’re taking us to 18th-century Scotland, where James’ parents met, and retelling the events of when Claire’s parents met during World War One.
The official synopsis describes the show as a “romantic saga that unfolds across time.” It claims that after 11 years of the “groundbreaking” Outlander, its timeless tale continues.
The description reads: “From the battlefields of World War I to the rugged Highlands of 18th-century Scotland, two fated couples must defy the forces that seek to tear them apart, unfolding in surprising and unforeseen ways.
“After 11 years of epic romance on the groundbreaking series Outlander, the timeless tale continues – or rather begins – on the eve of an earlier Jacobite rebellion. A prequel to Outlander, the series explores the lives and relationships of two couples as they fight against all odds to be together.”
Plenty of praise has already been given to the brand-new episodes that just dropped on MGM+ in the UK. Fear not, an additional subscription to the service is accessible through Amazon Prime, meaning you can watch every drop that follows.
The review site Rotten Tomatoes has already garnered a number of reviews, giving the show an impressive 92% overall score. A fan wrote: “Two episodes in and already loving this series! The casting for the new characters—Jamie and Claire’s parents—and the younger versions of familiar characters from Outlander is absolutely phenomenal.
“The chemistry between both couples is fantastic, and I’m especially excited to see how Brian and Ellen’s relationship evolves… I love the detailed portrayal of 18th-century Scotland; it really immerses you in the era.”
Another fan of the show shared: “It’s definitely as good as its predecessor, and I’m falling in love with this cast.” Meanwhile, another viewer confessed: “It’s so good I’m already addicted to it; I can’t wait for next week’s episode.”
The leading actress Harriet Slater, who plays Ellen MacKenzie, admitted that she had never seen Outlander in an interview with The Sunday Post but knew that she’d landed herself a huge role. She said: “When I got the tape for my very first audition, I started watching it, and it probably took me until midway through shooting season one to finish it – it’s a long show.
“I especially found it helpful whenever there was a reference to my character in the series. I took that as a little nugget of information and found it really useful. It just helped me immerse myself even further in the world. Now I’ve seen the whole thing, I’m looking forward to seeing what happens in season eight with the rest of the fans.”