TVLine posted an exclusive video of Caitriona Balfe explaining how she nabbed the role of beloved Claire Elizabeth Beauchamp Randall Fraser. 

She had no idea what a long search it had already been casting Claire. She self taped her audition and sent it in. Three weeks later they asked her to come in for a test with Sam Heughan aka Jamie Fraser. The rest is herstory.

The one line she nailed to cinch the role was “Stop! Help! He’s going over!”. This is at a key moment in the premiere episode 101 when they are riding by cover of darkness after being ambushed by dragoons.

Ronald D. Moore, Executive Producer and Maril Davis, Co-Executive Producer were in the midst of this long, exhaustive casting search for Claire Beauchamp Randall when Caitriona’s tape arrived. Maril said immediate notice was taken as this was something different than they had seen before. Ron knew the actress to ultimately play Claire had to be smart, a thinker, able to handle the rigors of this character.





It seems so long ago we were anxiously awaiting casting news of Claire. Sam was cast so early on that it seemed forever for anticipating fans.

Caitriona Balfe, as I have said over and over is the perfect Claire. I am thankful the search was taken so seriously. She was worth the wait.

More screen captures from the video for your enjoyment.