Last night, I had the opportunity to gather with a group of Outlander fans for Q and A with Maria Doyle Kennedy, Outlander’s beloved but formidable, Aunt Jo!
Although the session lasted for 30 minutes, my cell phone died after just 10. So, the following video represents only the first third of the session. Sorry! 😬
Notice her cute red tennies? As she explains in the video, her luggage didn’t arrive so she had to buy a new dress that paired nicely with the tennis shoes. Hopefully, her bag will catch up with her soon!
After my phone died, Maria continued with the delightful session. As you may know, she is a wonderful singer who as a 13 y.o., became entranced and inspired by the work of Billie Holiday. So much so, she chose to pursued singing.
Years ago, she was singing with a band when an acting opportunity came knocking at her door. Fortunately, we fans are the beneficiaries of that serendipitous event.
Billie Holiday
Maria said she likes the challenge of playing complex and damaged characters. Vera Bates from Downton Abbey remains one of her favorite rolls.
This thrilled me to hear… she loves the part of Aunt Jo! Apparently, it takes only a short while to revive the role even after extended breaks in filming. She also loves using a Scottish accent as it helps her slip into the part with greater ease.
Preparing to play the role, she took time to understand that Jocasta was once sighted and retains some small bit of vision. So, she placed filmy material over her eyes to imagine how Jocasta saw the world.
From Drums of Autumn, when Claire realizes Aunt Jo is blind.
Suddenly, the truth dawned on me: her hand on the butler’s arm, her touching Jamie’s face in greeting, the glass put ready for her grasp, and the shadow on her face when Ian talked of her painting. Jocasta Cameron was blind.
Of course, there was much more to the session and I wish you all could have witnessed the elegant, calm and generous, Maria Doyle Kennedy!
The deeply grateful,
Outlander Anatomist
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Photo and Video Credits: Sony/Starz, Wikipedia, Outlander Anatomy, Biography.com
Thanks for this, Karmen! 💗
Most welcome, Kelly. Thanks for reading and watching!