Who are these folks, you say? Here is a breakdown of the new additions and how they’ll fit into the narrative for the coming season, which is based on the fourth book in Diana Gabaldon’s best-selling Outlander series called Drums of Autumn.
Boyd (above) will portray Gerald Forbes, a wealthy lawyer in Cross Creek who is friends with his prominent client, Jocasta Cameron (Maria Doyle Kennedy). Boyd is best known for Lord of the Rings; his other credits includeThe Flying Scotsman, Seed of Chucky, and An Urban Ghost Story.
Brown pays Gayle, Brianna’s best friend and college roommate. Her TV credits include the new C4/Netflix series Kiss Me First. She was also in Roots for A&E.
O’Ryan is Lizzie, a Scottish woman who goes on a big adventure with Brianna Fraser (Sophie Skelton), the daughter of Jamie (Sam Heughan) and Claire (Caitriona Balfe). O’Ryan is is a recent graduate from the Oxford School of Drama; this role marks her TV debut.
Simpson will take over as Phaedre, the personal maid and seamstress for Jocasta, and is considered a trusted member of the River Run household. Her TV credits include Les Miserables.
Downie portrays Governor William Tyron, who was an actual historical figure. The ambitious William is a former British officer who used his family connections to land the position of governor. Downie’s film credits include Transformers: The Last Night, War Machine, Paddington, and The King’s Speech.
Earlier this month, Starz announced it renewed Outlander for a fifth and sixth season. The fourth season is currently filming through June in Scotland.