Not surprisingly, casting Outlander’s supporting characters is easier than casting the main players. I realize that I’ve still got Dougal MacKenzie, Column MacKenzie, Laoghaire, and Geillis Duncan to consider—all in due time. Today’s theme is ‘Young Outlander.’

I’m not at all particular as to who should play young Fergus. My solution: hire some French child actor. As for the adult Fergus, may I suggest Olivier Martinez. He’s le Frenchman with a trademark smoulder, perfect for the role of the rakish, one-handed pickpocket. Can you see him banishing a hook and still looking sexy?

As for Young Ian, I’ve always had a clear picture of him in my mind but never an actor ready for casting. In the book, he’s described as a lanky, gawky youth with a homely face, but with a certain appeal attributed to his young man’s likability. In my mind, I see him shoving his hands into his pockets while skipping stones into a river, giving a goofy sideways smirk when someone compliments him, and in possession of the characteristic bad posture of someone who is not comfortable with his height. In short, I imagine Young Ian as cute in an awkward sort of way. I see him played by French actor Gaspard Ulliel.

I pictured Brianna’s maid Lizzie as fragile as a glass menagerie. Whereas Brianna is tall, robust, and statuesque, Lizzie is the human equivalent of a rabbit: petite, pale, and vulnerable. She’s a withering daisy suffering from malaria and other personal insecurities. I see her played by English actress Carey Mulligan, who you may remember from Pride and Prejudice (2005) and Bleak House (2005).