Outlander’s Sam Heughan auditioned for Game of Thrones seven times

Sam Heughan has become the face of STARZ’ Outlander, but before he became the household Scottish hunk Jamie Fraser, there was another role he was vying for. It turns out he could have played the role of Renly Baratheon, the youngest brother of Stannis and Robert Baratheon, on Game of Thrones.

Now, I’ll admit that I’m relieved he ended up on Outlander, because come on, Sam Heughan was destined to be Jamie Fraser. And Gethin Anthony did a fine job as Renly. But it’s still pretty cool that he potentially could have been on HBO’s hit series, isn’t it?

I was pretty shocked to learn that Heughan didn’t try out once but seven times for Game of Thrones. But guess what, that wasn’t the only Game of Thrones role he auditioned for, according to an interview he did with Vulture in 2014.

"I auditioned for Game of Thrones seven times! Loads of times, I auditioned for Renly, Loras, some of the members of the Night’s Watch. And I’d always get so close! I’d be like, “Guys, just give me a sword!” [Laughs.] Everyone was going in for those parts."

Ultimately, Sam Heughan didn’t end up playing Renly, Loras, or any other characters from Game of Thrones. But it that helped him get into character for Outlander, another period piece, we’re grateful.

To stay up to date on everything fantasy, science fiction, and WiC, follow our all-encompassing Facebook page and sign up for our exclusive newsletter.

Watch Game of Thrones for FREE with a no-risk, 7-day free trial of Amazon Channels

h/t Cheat Sheet