Gary Young has pleased and impressed Outlander fans with his portrayal of Yi Tien Cho (AKA Mr. Willoughby), but it’s the decision to change the character that’s so good.
When Outlander chose to adapt “Voyager,” the showrunners chose to take a step away from the books. Changes occurred from the very beginning, with one of the clearest being keeping Murtagh alive. Now fans want to know what will come of Yi Tien Cho, also known as Mr. Willoughby. After all, the character has seen changes Murtagh did in the earlier years.
For those who haven’t read the books, there are going to be spoilers. However, these spoilers are minor and more about the characters than what happens to them.
Murtagh was never a focal character
In the book series, Murtagh never took a focal point. He was here and there, explaining the odd things to Claire and supporting Jamie, but he wasn’t the same guy he was in the series. This change was excellent. Fans got to know Jamie’s godfather more and see him interact with Claire in ways fans could never initially expected it. It was possible to create a more warming, funny, and interesting guy. The change to his character’s storyline in Outlander season 3 really wasn’t that surprising with how much fans loved him.
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A similar thing can be said for Yi Tien Cho. In “Voyager,” the character was far more stereotypical of the time period. He owed Jamie a debt, but that didn’t mean he actually liked Jamie. He wasn’t afraid to betray those close to him if he needed to. If you talk to most book fans, they’ll tell you that they didn’t really care for Yi Tien Cho—although most will refer to him as Mr. Willoughby.
Changing the character was an excellent decision
Like with Murtagh, the chances to Yi Tien Cho’s character has been for the better. Fans have been able to connect to him, understand him more, and actually respect him. This even comes with the use of his real name. Mr. Willoughby was the name given to him by Jamie, making it easier for people in Scotland to call him by a name. Claire has honored him by calling him by his real name multiple times, rather than to continue the attempt to Westernize him.
The character isn’t stereotypical in a way that it leaves a bad taste in the mouth. He’s kind and considerate. While he will do illegal things when necessary, he wouldn’t hurt those he cares about. And two of those people are Claire and Jamie. Rather than the character being some sort of comedic and hurtful impression, he’s been realistic for the time period. The development has been considerate and understanding.
He’s been one of those side characters that fans want to watch on the screen. They want to see what he will do next and are curious to know whether his character will stick around for the next season. This could be a problem for the cost of production, but it means the Frasers have someone else they can count on if the need comes.
Next: Why will happen to Mr. Willoughby in Outlander season 4?
Do you like the changes to Yi Tien Cho’s character? Did you prefer the one from the books? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Outlander continues with the season 3 finale on Sunday, Dec. 10 at 8/7c on Starz.