'Outlander' season 2 spoilers: new characters to join, what to expect

Claire and Jamie deals with the French Court in Outlander season 2. starz.com/originals/outlander/

More roles have been filled for the next season of Starz's highly-acclaimed historical fiction adventure drama "Outlander," according to recent reports. 

Earlier, Access Hollywood reported that "Wuthering Heights" star Robert Cavanah was tapped to portray the role of Jamie's (Sam Heughan) cousin Jared. It is said that Jamie and Claire (Caitriona Balfe) will stay in Jared's mansion while the two are in Paris. E! Online then said that "Borgia" alum Stanley Weber will portray the role of wine merchant Le Comte St. Germain, who has an obsession with the occult and brutality. 

Now, a series of casting announcements has been made, including the one posted on the Entertainment Weekly saying that "The Seasoning House" star Rosie Day landed the role of minor baronet Mary Hawkins, the young and innocent niece of Silas Hawkins. Mary is said to be engaged to a member of the French court, but she later on realizes that she is being used by her elders for their own intentions. 

On the other hand, Variety reported that "The Village" actor Andrew Gower will be Prince Charles Edward Stuart in the series, the heir to the exiled dynastic ruler who will do whatever it takes to return to power, at whatever cost.

The role of the young French thief Fergus was given to Romann Berrux. Fergus is reportedly very loyal to the Frasers, willing to give up even his own life just to save Jamie and Claire. 

Also, Dominique Piñon was cast to portray the role of a mysterious healer named Master Raymond. He seems to have knowledge on a lot of important matters, including the occult and politics. Master Raymond will be spending some time with Claire this season. 

"Outlander" season 2 is expected to return with 13 action-packed episodes in 2016. 

News
Archbishop of Canterbury calls for peace in first Easter sermon
Archbishop of Canterbury calls for peace in first Easter sermon

Dame Sarah Mullally has used her first Easter Day sermon as Archbishop of Canterbury to renew calls for peace in the Middle East. 

Easter Sunday and the hope of resurrection
Easter Sunday and the hope of resurrection

The hope of the resurrection is especially precious in a world filled with grief, violence, uncertainty, and pain.

Activists warn Syriacs being erased in Syria
Activists warn Syriacs being erased in Syria

The Syriacs are mostly Christian.

New Iraq report urges stronger action to protect Christians and other religious minorities
New Iraq report urges stronger action to protect Christians and other religious minorities

Jim Shannon MP said the report records both “the progress observed” and “the ongoing challenges” that remain for religious minorities seeking to live in safety and freedom in Iraq.