The seventh season of fantasy period drama Outlander ended on Saturday 18 January, and a combination of cliffhangers and emotional moments had fans flocking to social media in distress. The series, based on the novels of Diana Gabaldon, tells the story of the romance between Second World War nurse Claire (Caitriona Balfe) and Highlander Jamie (Sam Heughan), whom she meets when she travels back in time to 18th century Scotland.
Over seven seasons, the couple has endured numerous obstacles to their relationship, including a near-drowning at sea, kidnappings, fires and war. They were also separated by time for two decades when Claire returned to the 20th century for her safety and Jamie, who cannot time travel like his wife, remained behind and nearly died in the Battle of Culloden.
The couple, and their extended family, finally settled in America but became caught up in the Revolutionary War, and the previous episode ended with Claire being shot and nearing death. While she happily recovered with Jamie by her side, there were two scenes in the episode that had fans reeling and asking when the final eighth season will be aired.
The first moment that distressed fans was a heartbreaking one, as Young Ian (John Hunter Bell) had to say goodbye to his beloved canine companion Rollo, who had been by his side since the fourth season but who died of old age just after Ian’s wife Rachel revealed she was pregnant.
That was upsetting enough, but a twist involving Claire and Jamie ended on a cliffhanger that shocked viewers, even those who have read the books. As Claire was recovering, she had what seemed to be a dream of Master Raymond (Dominique Pinon), the mysterious and possibly magical French apothecary who tended to her in France after her and Jamie’s daughter Faith was stillborn in season two.
