On this day five years ago, Caitriona Balfe was announced as the face of Claire Randall in STARZ’s Outlander. Here’s a look over the last five years and her transformation.
Five years ago, the “Claire Watch” ended. Caitriona Balfe was announced as the face of one half of the iconic duo in STARZ’s Outlander. This came two months after Sam Heughan landed the role of Jamie Fraser.
It was certainly a long search and the casting department needed to make sure they got this one perfect. Caitriona went through multiple screen tests and earlier this year we got to see the steamy screen tests with co-star Sam Heughan. It was clear from that point that they were perfect together. According to Deadline’s article at the time, Caitriona wasn’t on anyone’s list at the time, but from the screen tests, it was clear they had Claire.
Since then, Caitriona Balfe has certainly been on a journey. She’d just moved to L.A. at the time of casting and never expected to land this role. In fact, she didn’t have a passport when she was asked to fly back to Britain for the screen tests.
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Now we couldn’t imagine anyone else in the role and Caitriona is definitely a rising star. She’s starting to land more movie roles (this year she is filming her first movie feature since Money Monster) and she is becoming a star many will want in her features and on her shows. However, she is certainly loyal to Outlander and we can’t see her leaving until the show is done (same with Sam Heughan).
And Caitriona’s looks have certainly changed over the years. She’s gotten rid of the long curly hair now and opted for a short bob with bangs. It looks cute, but Claire will keep the locks through a wig by the looks of the trailer.
The great thing is Caitriona and Sam developed a loving friendship behind the scenes. They are close friends and supportive of each other, whether it comes to roles, nominations, or charitable events.
Like Caitriona, Claire has been on a journey over the years. Here’s to another season of Claire and Jamie’s passionate relationship.
Do you remember Caitriona Balfe being cast in the role of Claire Randall? What did you think of her on Outlander when you first saw her? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Outlander Season 4 premieres on Nov. 4 at 8/7c on STARZ.