Fans of Outlander received a mix of news: while it’s a relief for the series’ protagonists, it’s disappointing for admirers of Tobias Menzies.
Menzies, known for his dual portrayal of Frank and Jonathan “Black Jack” Randall, has revealed in an exclusive interview with TVLine that he will not be returning to the series for its eighth and concluding season.
“What can I say?” Menzies pondered with a light-hearted laugh, raising fans’ hopes briefly before quashing them. “It would be outstanding. [However], I won’t be returning.”
Starz has been contacted by TVLine for an official statement.
The revelation isn’t entirely unpredicted as both of Menzies’ characters, Claire’s modern-era husband Frank and his malevolent ancestor Black Jack, have met their ends in the series narrative.
[ALERT: BOOK SPOILER AHEAD] The intricacies of time travel allowed for the brief reappearance of Black Jack in Written in My Own Heart’s Blood, the ninth book by Diana Gabaldon, which the television series is adapted from. Opportunities such as flashbacks or dream sequences could bring back characters; however, it seems none will feature Menzies’ roles.
The first half of Outlander Season 7 concluded in August 2023. There’s no confirmation on when Season 7B will air. Earlier in 2023, Starz informed fans that the series will conclude after Season 8, which will consist of 10 episodes. Further expanding the Outlander universe, the network has greenlit a prequel titled Outlander: Blood of My Blood, exploring the lives of Jamie’s and Claire’s parents.
Menzies expresses confidence that the show’s conclusion will be spectacular. This interview was conducted around the time of his latest project, Apple TV+’s Manhunt, where he plays Edwin Stanton. The historical limited series is set to begin streaming on March 15.
Disheartened by Menzies’ absence for the series’ wrap-up? Share your thoughts below!
FAQ About Tobias Menzies’ Departure from ‘Outlander’
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Will Tobias Menzies return as Frank or Black Jack Randall in future seasons of ‘Outlander’?
No, Tobias Menzies has confirmed that he will not reprise his roles in the final season of ‘Outlander’.
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Could Tobias Menzies appear in flashbacks or dream sequences?
Though the narrative allows for such possibilities, Menzies indicated that his characters will not appear in such contexts for the remaining seasons.
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When will ‘Outlander’ return for Season 7B?
Starz has not yet announced a release date for the second half of Season 7 of ‘Outlander’.
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Will there be more ‘Outlander’ content after the main series ends?
Yes, Starz has ordered an ‘Outlander’ prequel series titled ‘Outlander: Blood of My Blood,’ which will delve into Jamie’s and Claire’s parent’s stories.
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What is Tobias Menzies’ next project?
Menzies stars as Edwin Stanton in the Apple TV+ historical limited series ‘Manhunt,’ set to begin streaming on March 15.
Conclusion
The announcement that Tobias Menzies will not return for the final season of ‘Outlander’ marks the end of an era for Frank and Black Jack Randall’s stories within the vast narrative of the series. While this may sadden fans who appreciated the depth Menzies brought to his dual roles, the actor leaves behind an unforgettable legacy as part of the ‘Outlander’ saga. As the series moves towards its conclusion, a prequel ensures that the enthralling world of ‘Outlander’ will continue to captivate audiences. Furthermore, Menzies’ venture into historical drama with ‘Manhunt’ suggests that while his journey on ‘Outlander’ has ended, his exploration of complex characters in historical contexts is far from over.