‘Doctor Who,’ the quintessential British science fiction television series, has been a cornerstone of geek culture since its inception in 1963. Known for its whimsical travels through time and space, ‘Doctor Who’ introduced a myriad of characters, aliens, and companions who have journeyed alongside the titular character, the Doctor. Among these companions was Jamie McCrimmon, a Scottish Highlander from the 18th century. Portrayed by actor Frazer Hines, Jamie first appeared in the serial “The Highlanders,” quickly becoming a fan favorite due to his brave heart and strong moral compass.

Jamie’s Scottish heritage and gallant persona left such an indelible impression that it became the muse for another pivotal character in modern storytelling—James Fraser from Diana Gabaldon’s ‘Outlander’ series. Gabaldon has admitted that the kernel of her time-travel romance was sparked while she caught an episode of ‘Doctor Who.’ Enamored by Jamie McCrimmon’s character and intrigued by his historical backdrop of the Jacobite risings, she was inspired to craft her own story about a man from 18th century Scotland.

‘Outlander,’ first published in 1991, revolves around Claire Randall, a nurse from the 20th century who is mysteriously whisked back in time to 1743. There she meets James Fraser, a gallant and chivalrous Scottish warrior with an uncanny resemblance to ‘Doctor Who’s’ Jamie McCrimmon both in spirit and ancestry. Like McCrimmon, Fraser is characterized by his bravery, loyalty, and cultural pride which have endeared him to audiences much like it did with Frazer Hines’ portrayal decades earlier.

Both characters share not only a name but also an unyielding sense of honor and fierce combativeness when defending those they love. The thematic parallels extend further as both men face the complexities of navigating through different time periods—McCrimmon with an alien Time Lord and Fraser with his time-displaced love interest.

‘Doctor Who’s’ influence on Diana Gabaldon’s work is a testament to how established fictional universes can inspire new creative realms. As Jamie Fraser continues to capture hearts in both Gabaldon’s novels and the successful television adaptation of ‘Outlander,’ he also carries on the legacy of Jamie McCrimmon, proving that characters—much like time travel—can transcend boundaries and eras to inspire generations of storytelling.