Sam Heughan (who plays Jamie Fraser) did a Twitter Q & A with fans. To participate, you only had to tweet at Sam and use #AskOutlander. Below is a transcript, but only relevant tweets are included. To read everything he responded to, head on over to his Twitter account.
He started it off by sharing a behind the scenes look at Tobias Menzies.
@TobiasMenzies and @ginger_jasper deep in rehearsal. pic.twitter.com/7VDUAikgxL
— Sam Heughan (@Heughan) August 15, 2014
[Spoiler Warning: Some of the questions and answers may spoil future episodes for non-readers.]
Q: As an actor how do you prepare for scenes like Wentworth? Do you find them difficult?
A: We’ve just been rehearsing those scenes. We have a wonderful script and great director but it’s a good challenge.
Q: Do you think you’ve developed a deeper/richer appreciation for being Scottish because of your role in the series?
A: Yes, rediscovering Scotland has been important, and part of Jamie’s journey. It feeds the story in every way
Q: What is the optimal season to film in Scotland or do you guys film in all seasons?
A: We have 4 seasons in one day. Every day, sun, rain, cloudy etc. It’s a challenge but Scotland shines!
Q: How much time will you have off before filming Season 2?
A: We have season 2????? OH YEAHHH! We have SEASON 2 EVERYONE!
Q: How many times did you have to film that scene where you jumped off the horse in the first episode?
A: We maybe did 4/5 takes of that part of scene. No more than usual.
Q: What was your reaction when you heard Outlander will be renewed for another season?
A: We just found out! Officially. Off for a wee dram later with everyone!
Q: Will your Jamie be saying “Mmphm?” I have no idea what that sounds like.
A: Wait and see in the show…! #AskOutlander “AAAaaaach”
Q: How many hours in a day do you typically film?
A: Shooting hours are 12. Plus pre call of makeup and costume, could be anything extra from 1-4hours depending… Plus travel
Q: If there was a gag reel who would be featured the most among the cast?
A: CAIT……
Q: Did you read the books before filming?
A: Of course. Though only book one (several times) and companion books. Didn’t want to get to far ahead of ourselves.
Q: How long does it take to learn the Gaelic lines/how long until it feels natural? You all sound as if you have been speaking it all your lives.
A: A few sessions with Adam. He’s great and it’s an important part of show (and Jamie’s character)
Q: On the basis of your friendship with Tobias, how you dealt the scenes of the flogging?
A: I’ll get him back….
Q: How long does it take make up to make your back looked scarred?
A: 2 hours before getting dressed. And half hour after. It’s made in two pieces, three makeup personnel work on it at same time.
Q: Do you prefer location or set?
A: Location. It’s so great to go outside and the countryside gives the actor a lot to play with.. #midges
Q: It seems you enjoy the horses. Are you considering horseback riding as an off camera pursuit?
A: I love it. Go as much as I can when I’m not working. We have a stables near the studio. Sleepy stays there.
Q: If you, Sam, were in Jamie’s shoes would Ye have married Claire?
A: Hmmmm, I’d better say YES, or won’t hear the end of it!?
Q: Do you have a favorite tartan?
A: My family is MacDonald.
Q: Congrats on 2nd series! Are you going to read Dragonfly in Amber now?
A: Absolutely.
Q: what is your favorite quote from episode 2 (or from any other episode you can think of spontaneously?
A: I love the Gaelic. And…. Watch on Saturday, there are some fantastic moments!
Q: Are you continuing special training for your role? Sword play, horseback riding, weight training?
A: Yes. Yes. Yes. Plus drinking whisky, VERY important.
Q: How often do you have to dye your hair?
A: Each “Block” (2 eps)
Q: I usually listen to music while I work and write. Do you listen to any music to get into character?
A: Yes, quite a lot, modern and traditional Scottish. Love @cuillinmusic Blackbird!
Q: What do you do to recharge your batteries? You seem to be working A LOT.
A: It’s been a hectic year. Nothing can prepare you. Coffee.
Q: What has been the funniest scene to film thus far?
A: The intimate scenes aren’t funny but are rather “strange/Surreal”…. Lots of people in the room!!!
Q: What is your natural hair color?
A: I’m soooooooo blonde. #BlondesHaveMoreFun
Q: Was that TWC commercial with guy added in later or is he really there?!
A: Really there. Poor guy. #SamCaitSandwich
Q: Which scene you played in the test to be Jaime?
A: Wedding night, pre spanking and one other… Tough scenes!
Q: Tell us an actor or actress you’d love to join season 2.
A: Billy Connely. The Big Yin.
Q: On your casting, did you meet some actors who are on the show too now ?
A: I read in on Graham’s audition.
Q: Any changes from the book? Ron Moore is good at keeping to the story…major changes that will make our jaws drop?
A: Hmmm, some surprises…!
Q: It looked like you had lost weight at Comic Con. Was that for filming the final episodes?
A: Possibly… 😉
Q: Scared by fame?
A: Hmm, maybe losing anonymity..?
Q: Have your fans recognized you on the street yet (non-Outlander appearances)? How will you handle all those ladies?
A: Recently in NYC. So lovely!
Q: Jamie can’t sing. Can you?
A: Makes two of us.
Q: What luxury will you buy with your #Outlander wages?
A: I bought a car…! And a record player.
Q: What was your reaction for Outlander Season 2? I’m very happy for this!! Congrats!!!
A: Delighted! Thank you. We are all so happy!
Source: Sam Heughan
