Sassenachs, every good story must come to an end — time’s running up for Outlander as Sam Heughan and Catriona Balfe just revealed the series’ fate.
Amid the exciting announcement that Starz officially renewed Outlander for another season, Claire and Jamie’s real-life counterparts helped break the news. Sam shared an Instagram video that looked back on moments throughout the historical drama, while also confirming the show’s next installment.
However, that rejoice turned bittersweet as it was revealed that season 8 would be Outlander‘s final chapter. “Thank you so much for being with us since day one,” Catriona said in one clip. “We hope that we do you proud, and we are very very grateful, so thank you.” Sam, dressed in character, added that he couldn’t wait to bring the last season to fans.
What’s more, Sam took a moment to share a personal message with fans in the caption. “@outlander_starz season 8, the last and final season! So delighted to have the opportunity to finish this epic story, and we hope you will come along with us,” he wrote.
The Spy Who Dumped Me star continued: “What a journey. What a story. What fans!!! So excited … can you guess how it ends? (But don’t worry, an extended season 7 is coming this year, 16 [episodes] to enjoy!) X.”
While the cast promises to “go out with a bang” and there’s another year before we must bid farewell, Outlander fans are having trouble coming to terms with it all. “I’m not ready to accept this. I heard the announcement yesterday and I’m having trouble processing it,” one person wrote. “I refuse to believe it will end 😢,” another added. “Wonderful news but also bittersweet! Thank you for the magic ❤️,” a different follower said.
Catriona shared the same video on her Instagram, with an equally heartfelt goodbye. “It’s been a gift beyond my wildest dreams … brought me friendships for life, stretched me as an actor and a person,” she captioned it. “Now we get to give you back one more season and finish it right for all you amazing fans. Thank you for being with us on this magical journey. @outlander_starz @sptv ❤️❤️❤️.”
While the end of an era, the Outlander universe has more in store. Starz officially picked up an Outlander prequel titled Blood of My Blood as showrunner Matthew B. Roberts joins the project. Confirmed for 10 episodes, the new show will be an origin story of sorts.
“The title is a nod to Jamie Fraser’s marriage vow to Claire, and there will be several names and faces that Outlander fans will know and recognize,” he told Deadline in January. “Jamie and Claire’s TV story may be coming to an end with season eight, but Diana [Gabaldon] is continuing on with their literary journey in her wonderful book series and is working diligently on book 10.”
Now, it won’t be long until Outlander fans see their favorite duo reunite again — take note that season 7 will premiere in summer 2023 (!).
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