The beloved Scottish series Outlander is set to receive BAFTA Scotland's highest honour at the annual awards ceremony on Sunday, November 15. The show, produced by Sony Pictures Television and based on Diana Gabaldon's novels, concluded earlier this year after 12 years and eight seasons.
Four team members to be honoured
BAFTA Scotland announced on November 2 that four members of the Outlander team will receive the Outstanding Contribution to Television accolade. Ronald D. Moore, who developed the series for television and served as executive producer, and Matthew B. Roberts, who was showrunner and executive producer, will be honoured. Caitríona Balfe and Sam Heughan, who played Claire and Jamie Fraser and also served as executive producers, will also be present.
Since its premiere in 2014, Outlander has captivated millions of viewers globally with its epic, time-travelling narrative and the enduring love story between Jamie and Claire Fraser.
Impact on Scottish tourism and industry
Audiences have been enchanted not only by Jamie and Claire's romance but also by the Scottish heritage and traditions showcased throughout the series. Research by VisitScotland shows that Outlander has become one of the most influential drivers of screen tourism in the nation, inspiring visitors to discover historic sites, castles, villages and landscapes throughout Scotland.
The series' success has had a profound impact on Scotland's global reputation and its contribution to the screen industry has created opportunities for local talent to grow. The Outlander Training Programme, launched before the first series began filming, has supported over 170 newcomers through intensive on-the-job training alongside experienced technicians. The programme continues with the prequel, Outlander: Blood of My Blood, which released its second series in September this year.
Creators reflect on the honour
Matthew B. Roberts said of being awarded the Outstanding Contribution to Television: "When we first landed in Scotland, we were outsiders – sassenachs – strangers in a strange land telling a very Scottish story. What we found was a country that opened its doors and a crew that opened their hearts. They welcomed us, guided us when we needed it, and made us feel like we belonged. That welcome is the real heart of Outlander and Blood of My Blood."
Ronald D. Moore added: "Since we first came to Scotland many years ago and decided to shoot the show here, it has been a tremendous pleasure to work with our Scottish crew, to utilise the Scottish locations and to learn more about Scottish culture and history. It's been a huge joy for all of us on the production, especially those of us from North America who perhaps did not know as much about Scotland as we should have but who learned so much down through the years."
