Sam Heughan is a Scottish actor, producer, author, and entrepreneur best known for his role as Jamie Fraser in the hit TV series Outlander. Born on April 30, 1980, in Balmaclellan, Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland, Heughan grew up in a creative environment and later trained at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama (now the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland), graduating in 2003. He began his career in theater and British television, gaining early recognition for his stage work, including a nomination for a Laurence Olivier Award.
Heughan rose to international fame in 2014 when he was cast as Jamie Fraser in Outlander, a time-travel drama based on Diana Gabaldon’s bestselling novels. His portrayal of the charismatic 18th-century Highland warrior earned him critical acclaim and a devoted global fanbase, often referred to as the "Heughligans." The role also brought him multiple awards, including a People’s Choice Award and a Saturn Award.
In addition to Outlander, Heughan has starred in films such as The Spy Who Dumped Me, Bloodshot, and Love Again. He co-authored the bestselling book Clanlands with his Outlander co-star Graham McTavish, which led to their travel series Men in Kilts. He is also the founder of Sassenach Spirits, a whisky brand, and launched the global fitness and charity movement My Peak Challenge, which supports causes such as Blood Cancer UK and Marie Curie.
Known for his generosity and commitment to wellness, Heughan balances his career in entertainment with philanthropy and entrepreneurship. He is set to return to the stage in 2025 in the Royal Shakespeare Company's production of Macbeth, and will also appear in the final season of Outlander as well as its upcoming prequel. With his talent, drive, and heartfelt connection to fans, Sam Heughan has become a defining figure in modern Scottish popular culture.
