How was Matt B. Roberts introduced to Outlander?
Some members of the Outlander crew were fans before the show was planned and developed. Others became fans during the process. Which of those was Matt B. Roberts?
We all know that some of the cast and crew had read the “Outlander” novels long before the series was in development. Others have read the novels as they go, with some only reading the current book they’re working on. Which of those groups was showrunner Matt B. Roberts in? You may be pleasantly surprised.
During a Twitter Q&A, one fan asked him outright, knowing that he was the one to introduced Maril Davis to the time-traveling series of books. Roberts shared that he was a reader for a production company and “Outlander” was assigned to him. He doesn’t go any further into that–such as whether he then instantly fell in love with the books–but it wouldn’t be that surprising if he did.
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Roberts also shared that he’s a history buff (that and he like to read history in the buff…*wink, wink*) so the novels by Diana Gabaldon were likely perfect for him. After all, they start in 1945 (1946 depending on the version) and take Claire to 1743. Readers are taken through times and through an unstable time in British history. It would have drawn him in like it has many others–I know it was the history in the novels that led to a friend suggesting I read the books.
Our Outlander showrunner has read all the books. Now he’s rereading “The Fiery Cross” to clarify the plotline and find the points in the novel that would work to turn into the TV series.
Having someone who already knew the novels and is a fan of them is important when it comes to the story. He’ll have a clearer idea of the moments everyone else fell in love with and this is more than just another job for him, but a dream job.
Next: The moment in Season 4 Matt B. Roberts can't wait for you to see
Did you know Roberts had read the novels before getting the show? Are you happy to hear that he was a book reader first? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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