Outlander is set to return later this year with the eighth and final season, but not all of the storylines from the books will make it onto the screen in the show
Outlander fans are on tenterhooks for the final season, hoping it will tie up all the loose ends from the book series as the show concludes after eight seasons. However, with only 10 episodes to play with, it’s clear that not everything from the novels will make the cut.
While this season will wrap up the TV version of the story, there are certain elements from the books that will be left out. Here are two major plotlines that fans shouldn’t hold their breath for in Outlander Season 8:
Jamie’s ghost won’t be explained
One of the enduring mysteries from the very first season is Jamie’s (Sam Heughan) ghost, which appeared early on and sparked much speculation among viewers. Viewers will remember the strange season one moment when Frank Randall (Tobias Menzies) was convinced he saw a mysterious figure watching his wife Claire Fraser (Caitriona Balfe).
However, the couple were in 1945, while Jamie was a highlander in 1743. While the ghost’s identity was always meant to be Jamie, as confirmed by the author of the books Diana Gabaldon, the series has never fully delved into the how and why behind his supernatural appearance.
This storyline, which has been more of a background detail in the show, will not be addressed in the final season. Fans will have to turn to the 10th and final book for answers on this, reports the Daily Record.
Claire’s full power remains unexplored
Another key development in the books that won’t be explored in the show is Claire’s progression toward her full powers.
In the books, Claire’s white hair signifies her full realisation of her abilities, a journey that starts to unravel in Go Tell the Bees That I Am Gone. While the TV series has hinted at her powers, they’ve never been the main focus, and it seems doubtful this plot will have a major part in the final season.
Fans seeking a more thorough exploration of Claire’s abilities will find the books more satisfying than the TV series.