The Universe is Expanding on ‘Outlander’ As Starz Plans Prequel to Its Most Popular Series
Another successful (and sexy) series has begotten a prequel.
Variety reports that Starz is developing a prequel to Outlander, one of its most popular original series. The network show has tapped Outlander executive producer and showrunner Matthew B. Roberts to write and executive produce the as-yet untitled series. Ronald D. Moore, who developed the novel for television, and Maril Davis will executive produce as well.
No plot details have been released, but the author of the Outlander book series has given hints that could point to what the show will be about. Diana Gabaldon, who has written nine hefty novels featuring the characters of 20th century time-traveler Clare Randall and her Scottish Highlander lover Jamie Fraser, has stated that she is working on a prequel novel about Ellen MacKenzie and Brian Fraser, the parents of Outlander‘s Jamie Fraser. Gabaldon also published a prequel novella titled Virgins, which focused on Jamie and his friend Ian Murray.
Outlander has been renewed for a seventh season, with Season 6 set to premiere on Starz on March 6th. The series stars Caitríona Balfe as Claire Randall and Sam Heughan as Jamie Fraser and Sophie Skelton as their grown daughter Brianna.
Every season of the series is based on one of the novels, with the upcoming season coming from the book A Breath of Snow and Ashes. It will consist of eight episodes. Season 7 is based on An Echo in the Bone and will consist of 16 episodes. Gabaldon has also written numerous novellas and short stories based on her characters.
The move to create a sequel is not surprising, especially given that the series, which has a lot of romantic and steamy TV-MA scenes (in addition to historical drama and humor), remains one of the premium cabler’s most popular shows even after being on since 2014.
Outlander‘s prequel series does not yet have a release date.