*Warning – This article contains spoilers for Outlander.*
Outlander star Sam Heughan, who portrays Jamie Fraser in the historical fantasy series, has hinted at a “difficult storyline” for his character in future episodes. The second half of season 7 is set to premiere on Starz today, and according to Heughan, one of Jamie’s family members has been significantly “put through the wringer”.
The actor, a decade-long veteran of Outlander, discussed what lies ahead for Jamie and his wife Claire Fraser (Caitriona Balfe) in the upcoming season 7b, in an interview with TV Insider. He revealed some tension within the Fraser family.
Discussing how the Frasers maintain their love amidst the harsh and brutal world around them, Heughan stated: “The passion hasn’t changed. It’s deeper and it’s developed.”
He further addressed how Jamie will have to confront his adult son William Ransom (Charles Vandervaart). Raised by Lord John (David Berry), William is unaware of his ‘true’ parentage, but that seems set to change, reports the Scottish Daily Express.
Heughan alluded to “a difficult storyline for those two”, with the interviewer noting there’s no Father’s Day card for this situation”.
Executive Producer Maril Davis ominously added: “William has been through the wringer this season. “
William is the covert illegitimate offspring of Jamie and Geneva Dunsany (Hannah James), who coerced him into a one-night stand. He is legally recognised as the son and successor of Ludovic Ransom, Eighth Earl of Ellesmere, who was married to his mother when he was born.
However, since he was six, he has been brought up by Lord Grey, his mother’s brother-in-law and legal guardian. The show has yet to disclose how William might respond upon learning about his ‘true’ parentage – but it appears things are set to heat up.
Davis previously hinted that fans should brace themselves for an “emotional rollercoaster” in the upcoming episodes, stating: “[Season] 7b is such a rollercoaster.
“I always say this every season – I feel like I say, ‘Buckle your seatbelts.’ But this one in particular is an emotional rollercoaster, so I think people should prepare to be, kind of… wrung out.”
Following the closure of Lionsgate+ in the UK, new episodes of Outlander will be available on Starz and to stream on Prime Video channel MGM+ from Friday, November 22. You must be an Amazon Prime member before you can sign up for MGM+.