UPDATE: Caitríona Balfe, the star of Starz’s beloved series Outlander, shares an emotional farewell as the show wraps up its final season, marking over a decade of her life invested in the iconic role of Claire Fraser. In a revealing interview on the Parting Shot Podcast, Balfe expressed, “Outlander has been a quarter of our lives! An insane amount of time,” emphasizing the deep connection she feels to the series and its fans.

The final season of Outlander, which first aired in 2014, has generated immense excitement among its dedicated fanbase. Balfe acknowledged the show’s ability to transcend demographics, captivating audiences across various age groups. “It’s amazing how many people watch it. The breadth of people who watch it is remarkable,” she stated, pointing to the fervent engagement of fans on social media.

Balfe reflected on the bittersweet nature of concluding such a monumental chapter in her career, revealing that both she and co-star Sam Heughan felt the weight of responsibility to deliver a satisfying ending. “The pressure was real,” she admitted, highlighting the uncertainty of the final scripts as the writers kept the plot under wraps to avoid spoilers.

As viewers anticipate the finale, Balfe hinted at the emotional journey Claire undergoes. “There’s always drama on Outlander, but Claire finds peace in some ways,” she noted, suggesting that the culmination of the series resonates with the show’s overarching themes of love and family.

In addition to her acting role, Balfe took on new challenges this season, including directing an episode and producing. “I felt part of so many conversations,” she explained, showcasing her growth within the creative process. This transition allowed her to expand her storytelling capabilities, revealing her desire to explore diverse narratives in future projects.

Balfe also touched on her experiences outside Outlander, including her role in the critically acclaimed film Belfast. She expressed pride in being part of such a special project, noting its emotional impact amid the chaos of the pandemic. “It was a beautiful experience,” she said, reflecting on the accolades the film received.

Looking ahead, Balfe is taking her time to decompress after the series finale. “I took six months off after we wrapped,” she shared, focusing on family and personal well-being before diving into new roles. She remains committed to pursuing meaningful projects, stating, “I just want to work with interesting artists and on great scripts.”

As the Outlander finale approaches, Balfe’s heartfelt reflections underscore the lasting impact the series has had on her life and career. Fans eagerly await the conclusion of this epic journey, and Balfe’s journey into new creative endeavors is one to watch.

Stay tuned as more updates on the final season of Outlander unfold.