Outlander: Blood of My Blood star totally unrecognisable from beloved Doctor Who episode

Warning - this article contains major spoilers for Outlander: Blood of My Blood

Outlander devotees might be surprised to discover that a much-loved guest star from Doctor Who has assumed an entirely new role in the fresh prequel series.

Launching this weekend, ardent fans have already been treated to two episodes of Starz's eagerly awaited prequel series, Outlander: Blood of My Blood.

It's already garnered glowing reviews, achieving an impressive 92 percent on Rotten Tomatoes.

The grand historical drama finally reveals the concealed narrative that led to the birth of the original show's two main characters, Claire (portrayed by Caitriona Balfe) and Jamie Fraser (Sam Heughan), reports the Daily Record.

Harriet Slater and Jamie Roy assume the roles of Jamie's parents in 18th Century Scotland, while Jeremy Irvine and Hermione Corfield portray Claire's parents set against the backdrop of the First World War.

The first season, consisting of 10 episodes, also boasts a remarkable supporting cast, with numerous well-known Scottish stars taking on key roles.

Among them is Tony Curran, who plays Jamie's grandfather Lord Lovat, who so far has adopted an antagonistic role.

Consider this your final spoiler warning if you've not yet watched the premiere. The initial episodes deliver a massive revelation, as both Henry (Irvine) and Julia (Corfield) are transported back in time to the 1700s during a trip to Scotland.

Sadly, the duo are separated and while Henry swiftly ascends the societal ladder, Julia finds herself ensnared as a servant to Lovat.

Lovat poses a menacing threat towards her, compelling her to remain vigilant and follow the stern housekeeper's instructions.

Audiences are now eagerly awaiting Julia's escape from his clutches and her reunion with Henry but, with eight episodes and a second series confirmed to be on the horizon, it could be years before they manage to return to their time, if at all.

For aficionados of time-travel dramas, actor Curran might appear unfamiliar from when they last saw him.

Renowned for roles in films like Outlaw King and television dramas such as Mary and George, one of his most memorable performances was his portrayal of the misunderstood Dutch artist Vincent van Gogh during Matt Smith's stint in Doctor Who.

Regarded as one of the finest episodes of the sci-fi classic, his depiction of the tormented painter who is transported to the future to discover how much his work is eventually appreciated is a far cry from the predatory Lord Lovat.

Hopefully, Julia will soon manage to break free from his grip following her unsuccessful attempt to escape at the conclusion of episode two.

Outlander: Blood of My Blood continues Fridays on Starz in the US and Saturdays on MGM+ via Prime Video in the UK.