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Sam Heughan says Outlander actors were 'perhaps forced' into nude scenes

other · 2026-07-27

Sam Heughan, known for his role as Jamie Fraser in Outlander, remarked that the cast often felt "perhaps forced" into performing nude scenes. During an event at Pitlochry Festival Theatre alongside Alan Cumming, he explained that discussions about nudity with the production team were "always a negotiation" and "not particularly pleasant." Heughan pointed out that the show, which concluded after eight seasons, initially operated without intimacy co-ordinators, leaving actors to navigate these situations on their own. He recounted an early audition experience where he was asked to undress, labeling it "awful." He commended the later inclusion of intimacy co-ordinators as "great protection." Heughan also described a challenging rape scene that required extensive filming. Production for the Outlander prequel, Blood Of My Blood, commenced in August last year, and it has been confirmed for a second season set to air in September. Sony Pictures Television has been contacted for a response.

Key facts

  • Sam Heughan said actors were 'perhaps forced' into nude scenes on Outlander.
  • Heughan spoke at Pitlochry Festival Theatre with Alan Cumming.
  • Nude scenes were 'always a negotiation' with the production team.
  • The show initially had no intimacy co-ordinators.
  • Intimacy co-ordinators were introduced in later series.
  • Heughan described a rape scene as his most challenging.
  • Outlander ended after eight seasons.
  • Prequel Blood Of My Blood began in August last year and renewed for second season in September.

Entities

Artists

  • Sam Heughan
  • Alan Cumming
  • Caitríona Balfe

Institutions

  • Pitlochry Festival Theatre
  • Sony Pictures Television

Locations

  • Pitlochry
  • United Kingdom

Sources