Outlander Star Sam Heughan Joins Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games as First Celebrity Ambassador

On November 14, 2025, it was announced that Outlander star Sam Heughan has been named the first celebrity ambassador for the upcoming Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games. Heughan, who plays the role of Highlander Jamie Fraser in the hit TV series, will feature in a television advert for the games, which are set to take place in the Scottish city next summer.

The advert will also showcase world 1,500m silver medallist Jake Wightman, five-time Commonwealth Games gold medallist Alex "Tattie" Marshall, and Olympic weightlifting champion Emily Campbell, who is also a Games ambassador. Heughan expressed his joy and pride at joining the Glasgow 2026 team, stating that he is "overjoyed" to be part of the event.

The actor noted that the partnership feels like a "full circle" moment, as when Glasgow last hosted the Commonwealth Games in 2014, Outlander had just started filming its first season. Heughan said he was "desperate to go" to the 2014 games but was unable to, and now he is thrilled to be involved in the event's return to the city.

More than 3,000 athletes from 74 nations and territories will compete across 10 sports and six Para sports at Glasgow 2026 next summer. Heughan, who is an advocate for the power of movement to bring people together, founded the My Peak Challenge initiative, which is one of the partners for the upcoming Commonwealth Games.