During The Gathering, a Starz event, Roy divulged some backstory to Sam Heughan, who plays Jamie Fraser, concerning the family’s plight.

Roy, portraying a younger Brian Fraser (who is played by Andrew Whipp in the original Outlander series), revealed: “Well, let me tell you about your roots, son. Brian Fraser lives with Lord Simon Lovat Fraser.”

Heughan humorously responded to this information: “Sorry for that. He’s quite a character”, referring to Lord Lovat’s notorious reputation, as depicted by Clive Russell in Outlander. Lord Lovat was known for being openly critical of Jamie and often made sexist remarks toward Claire Fraser, portrayed by Caitríona Balfe.

Roy further explained: “Yeah, I know, it’s not a great upbringing. We don’t have a lot of money and it’s not a great life, but Brian’s pretty content, I have to say. He’s this young lad. He’s very happy, kind of go-lucky.”

Brian Fraser has a tough life in Outlander: Blood of My Blood (Image: STARZ)

He went on to describe how Brian, despite suboptimal living conditions, seems to be at peace when audiences first encounter him.

Outlander has demonstrated how Lord Lovat frequently taunted Jamie about his father Brian, revealing the complex dynamics within the Fraser family lineage.

Tony Curran, cast as the youthful Lord Lovat in the prequel, shared his insights into Jamie Fraser’s grandfather’s character: “To get where he was, I think he’s a very uncompromising individual. If you get in his way, you better get out of his way.”

Jamie Fraser’s grandmother, Davina Porter (portrayed by Sara Vickers), will be a presence in the prequel series, and Vickers shared some insights: “I think she’s become quite canny as a character, surviving this world of the Frasers.”

Sam Heughan and Jamie Roy spoke about Outlander: Blood of My Blood(Image: STARZ)

Vickers added, “I definitely think that Brian’s good nature comes from Davina.”

Brian experienced a tough childhood and his relationship with his father becomes even more strained after he falls for Ellen MacKenzie (portrayed by Harriet Slater), yet he retains his loyalty and is a man of few words—traits that his son Jamie will later embody.

According to details from Outlander, Lord Lovat tried to thwart the romance, even abducting Ellen to prevent her marriage to Brian.

Brian Fraser had a difficult relationship with his father in Outlander: Blood of My Blood(Image: STARZ)

It’s said there was “bad blood” between the Frasers and MacKenzies around this time, which may explain some of Lord Lovat’s motivations.

This act of interference by Lord Lovat deeply affected the already tenuous bond between him and Brian, resulting in Brian severing ties with his father.

After the passing of Ellen, Lord Lovat attempted to visit Lallybroch only to be turned away decisively by Brian, who refused to let him enter.

Viewers are now set to witness the unfolding of these referenced events in Outlander and explore the turbulent relationship between Lord Lovat and Brian.