Sam Heughan Failed 'Game Of Thrones' Audition, Shares New Pic With Caitriona Balfe

There is no denying that Sam Heughan, 39, is one of the most sought-after actors of his generation. The Scottish star, along with Caitriona Balfe, 40, rose to fame as Jamie Fraser and Claire Randall-Fraser in the popular drama television show called “Outlander,” which is based on Diana Gabaldon’s historical time travel book series. But, did you know that Sam wanted to become a part of the “Game of Thrones” series before?

Speaking to Vulture in 2014, Sam revealed he auditioned for the HBO show seven times. “I auditioned for Game of Thrones seven times! Loads of times," Caitriona’s on-screen husband told the entertainment publication. "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! Everyone was going in for those parts,’" he went on.

Unfortunately, Sam Heughan did not get a role in David Benioff and D. B. Weiss’ American fantasy drama television series. Despite this, the actor said he became more confident and it helped him land the Jamie Fraser role in the “Outlander” show. Caitriona Balfe’s leading man even divulged he felt a connection with the character when he auditioned for it.

Now, “Outlander” is enjoying victory after victory with their solid ratings for STARZ, garnering millions of viewers per episode, Cheat Sheet shared. Aside from Heughan, “Peaky Blinders” star Sam Claflin also failed to become part of the “Game of Thrones” series. Claflin revealed, in 2013, that he auditioned for the Viserys Targaryen role.

Meanwhile, Sam Heughan just shared an update about the upcoming “Outlander” Season 5. On Sunday, the series lead star posted a photo of him and Caitriona Balfe riding horses. “Season 5. Last block of shooting. Riding into the new week like J&C..! @outlander_starz,” he wrote in the caption.

Sam and Caitriona started filming new episodes in April. In fact, the pair has been sharing updates of the production on Instagram, offering avid followers of the show behind-the-scenes look at the forthcoming “Outlander” Season 5. In August, the Irish actress-model tweeted a photo of her alongside her four-legged castmates.

Caitriona’s co-star, Sam Heughan, also posted about the imminent fifth installment earlier this year. "Getting ready for season 5!!!!! Excited to be working with this talented family again. I’m so lucky! _ " the hunky star wrote on Instagram, alongside a black-and-white snap of him and his colleagues. STARZ revealed that the next season will be based on Diana’s “The Fiery Cross” novel, which is the fifth volume of the book series.

Spoilers have it that the characters of Sam Heughan and Caitriona Balfe will stay in the New World and call the North Carolina wilderness as their new home. However, their decision will change their lives together. “Outlander” Season 5 will premiere on Sunday, Feb. 16, 2020, on STARZ.