We know a little about Brian Fraser from Outlander, but there is still a lot to explore about the character. The Outlander: Blood of My Blood series premiere brought us some character development we’ve needed.
Caution: This post contains SPOILERS for Outlander: Blood of My Blood season 1, episode 1.
The first episode was mostly focused on Ellen and Brian’s story. While there was a small connection to Julia and Henry, we spent the second episode mostly with them. It’s a great way to split up the two storylines and offer everyone all the time they need to grow.
It’s time to look back at Brian’s standout moments from the first episode. There are certainly elements of Jamie Fraser in his character.
His preference to stay away from the MacKenzies
When we meet Brian, it’s while he’s working the land at Castle Leathers. Murtagh wants him to go to the wake at Castle Leoch, but Brian isn’t interested in that. The MacKenzies know that he exists, but they don’t know what he looks like, and that’s the way that he likes it.
It’s clear that he’s not interested in power or attention. This is a man who wants a quiet life, potentially to settle down with a good woman. If only he knew now what is to come.
Seeing his friendship with Murtagh
We know that Murtagh loved Ellen, but it’s rare that there’s a discussion of Murtagh’s friendship with Brian Fraser. The two are cousins, so it makes sense that they would have some sort of connection. Outlander: Blood of My Blood gives us that, and we get to see how close they are, almost like brothers.
This is going to be important when it comes to the development of Brian and Ellen’s relationship. We need to see how Murtagh handles it, and why he is so easily able to step back from his interest in Ellen. Then there’s the fact that he becomes the godfather of Jamie. It all forms from this close relationship with Brian.
His need to protect Julia in Outlander: Blood of My Blood
When Julia comes to give Simon Fraser his meal, Brian can immediately tell that she needs to get out of the room. He knows what his father is like, but there’s only so much that he can do. Simon makes it clear that Brian needs to keep quiet, just like Murtagh.
In the end, it’s Davina, Brian’s mother, who is able to get Julia out. However, we do get to see a good side of Brian, a side that we will eventually see in Jamie Fraser.
Brian stays out of the way of people
At first, Brian tries to fit in with the people around, but he quickly makes a few enemies. Rather than fighting, he decides to head to the stables, staying well out of the way of people. However, he’s not alone.
This is a chance for Ellen and Brian to meet. He remains appropriate, but he also makes it clear that he is interested in Ellen. This isn’t because of her name or title, but because of who she is on the inside as they get to talking.
Needing to find a way to be together in Outlander: Blood of My Blood
Brian remains a gentleman when the two meet in secret at the bridge. This is his chance to find out who he has actually meet with, and it comes with some disappointment, as they realize that their families hate each other.
That doesn’t stop Brian, though. He wants to be with Ellen, and he makes it clear that he is interested in her. Her name and title isn’t what he is interested in, and he even makes sure that she is comfortable with any physical touch they share. It’s a beautiful moment that shows us exactly what type of man he is.
Outlander: Blood of My Blood airs on Fridays on STARZ.
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