Outlander fans know that the death of a character doesn’t always mean that they won’t show up again – but it seems time is most definitely up for this fan favourite.
Outlander fans who had hoped for the return of one show stalwart for season eight have been left disappointed this week.
Tobias Menzies has confirmed he’s not set to reprise his role as either Frank or Jonathan ‘Black’ Jack Randall for the last and final instalment which is currently being filmed in Scotland, season eight.
Menzies has been a part of the much-loved show since it first launched back in 2014, starring as both Frank and his 18th century slightly less friendly ancestor, Black Jack.
It might not be that shocking news to some loyal fans, as both the characters are dead. But, as anyone who has been there since the beginning knows.. that doesn’t always mean we’ve seen the last of people in Outlander, thanks to the many flashbacks and dream sequences – not to mention spooky visions!
In an interview last week with TVLine, the actor gave the confirmation some fans didn’t want to hear. He said, chuckling: “What am I allowed to say?
“It would be great. [But] no, you will not see me.”
Black Jack Randall, the 18th century baddie, was killed by Jamie – played by Sam Heughan in season three and his modern day relative, Frank, died in a car crash in 2018 in season 3, leaving fans in floods of tears. Of course, it was a bittersweet end, as it allowed Claire – Caitríona Balfe – to travel back in time and be with Jamie again.
Fans had hoped that Tobias would return, and it was still a possibility, given the fact the character does appear in Diana Gabaldon’s ninth book, Written in My Own Heart’s Blood.
But Menzies, currently starring in Apple TV+’s Manhunt, had some positive words about the show’s prequel Blood of My Blood – an origin story based on Jamie and Claire’s parents – currently being filmed in Glasgow with recent cast announcements including Mayflies’ Tony Curran. Menzies said: “They’re going to bring it home magnificently, I’m sure.”
Meanwhile, the current ‘Droughtlander’ continues as viewers wait with bated breath for the arrival of season seven, part two, thought to be hitting screens this spring.
Highland warrior Jamie and Claire were in the middle of the Revolutionary War in the first half of the season as Brianna and Roger McKenzie, leapt forward to the 20th century.
When the show’s official Instagram page revealed a two-part season, due to extra episodes on the back of the pandemic, they also gave a huge clue about how many instalments there will be in 2024.
“Ready for summer on Fraser’s Ridge?” read the official caption for a series of photos last March.
“#Outlander Season 7 will officially premiere JUNE 16! The sixteen episode season will be split into two parts with the first half premiering June 16 and the second half airing in 2024.”
Source: dailyrecord.co.uk