Starz has announced that Outlander will return for an eighth and final 10-episode season. The season will be based on Written in My Own Heart's Blood, the eighth book in Diana Gabaldon's Outlander series.
Kathryn Busby, Starz president of original programming, said in a statement, "For nearly a decade, Outlander has won the hearts of audiences worldwide, and we're pleased to bring Claire and Jamie's epic love story to a proper conclusion. But before we close this chapter there is plenty of their passionate story to tell over the course of 26 new episodes and even more to explore of this dynamic world and its origin story. We’re thrilled to continue to partner with Matthew, Maril and Ronald and can’t wait to see where their alluring storytelling takes us next.”
While fans may be disappointed to see the show come to an end, there's more to come in the Outlander universe. Starz has also greenlit a prequel series called Outlander: Blood of My Blood," which will focus on the love story of Jamie Fraser's parents, Brian Fraser and Ellen MacKenzie. Matthew B. Roberts will continue as the showrunner.
Roberts said in a statement, “Outlander: Blood of My Blood is, at its heart, a love story. It will explore what lengths a person will go to find love in a time when love is considered a luxury, and when marriages are made strategically, often for political or financial gain. 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. Jamie and Claire’s TV story may be coming to an end with season eight, but Diana is continuing on with their literary journey in her wonderful book series and is working diligently on book ten. With Jamie and Claire, and now Brian and Ellen, there is still so much more to come in the Outlander universe, and we cannot wait to continue sharing these stories with our dedicated fans.”
