Outlander fans 'struggle to get past the doom' as they're left 'traumatised' by scenes

Outlander season 7 part 2 trailer on STARZ

Outlander fans have sparked a debate over its more "disturbing" content after one viewer admitted the first season left them feeling shaken, confessing they felt the need for "a session with my psychologist".

The gritty time-travel saga, heading back to our screens this Autumn on Starz, is as famed for its savage depictions of violence as it is for the steamy romance between its stars Caitriona Balfe and Sam Heughan, who bring life to Claire Fraser and Jamie Fraser.

Since its first appearance on the small screen in 2014, Outlander, adapted from Diana Gabaldon's book series, has captivated audiences with its blend of historical adventure and fantasy.

With their palpable on-screen connection, Balfe and Heughan have sealed their London fan base's fervent loyalty. As the dynamic duo edges towards an emotive on-screen goodbye, the stirring journey they've shared for more than ten years remains a testament to their craft.

Despite fans' eagerness for the upcoming second half of season 7, set for release this November, there's still an undertone of unease lingering from the show's earlier and darker chapters.

Sam Heughan plays Jamie Fraser (Image: STARZ)

A Reddit discussion thread started by user @buttonandthemonkey reveals the depth of impact, as the viewer admitted: "I've just finished the first season and I think I need a session with my psychologist. Holy hell of trauma."

Expressing a struggle with the series' dark undertones, they continued: "So many people have recommended the series over the years as a romantic and interesting show but I'm struggling to get past the doom.

"I'm on episode 2 of season 2 and so far it's been good but I'm worried it's going to convert to season one's horror. Should I continue?"

This prompted fellow viewers to weigh in with thoughts on some of Outlander's most gruelling scenes.

One viewer commented: "It does get easier....and it is definitely worth watching, imo. That being said, there are a few more disturbing scenes in future episodes, but the good outweighs the bad. Enjoy it!!" (sic)

Jack Randall is one of Outlander's worst villains (Image: STARZ)

Another added their perspective, reasoning: "No. It doesn't. If you feel that strongly about the trauma in the first season it's probably not the show for you."

A third chimed in with a warning: "The last episode of season 1 is known as the most graphic and gruesome of the entire series. There are some other scenes with sexual assault in future seasons, but that one is the worst."

They continued: "Many of us loyal fans have watched that episode one time and never again. There's a list of triggers warnings pinned somewhere in the sub, so you might want to take a look at those. But if you're enjoying the other aspects of the show, I'd say definitely stick with it." (sic)

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The scene in question from season 1 involves Jamie suffering a brutal rape and beating by Black Jack Randall (Tobias Menzies) while imprisoned. The moment was profoundly shocking for viewers, and actor Sam Heughan later recounted the difficulty of filming that day.

Echoing the sentiments of others, another fan remarked: "There's more but you kind of get used to it. I used to get anxiety watching the show, especially with the graphic and SA scenes but you get past it eventually. I didn't watch the very graphic scenes and if they came up, I just skipped through them. I never watched that one prison scene and so glad I didn't. Many people mentioned it's forever stuck in their head."

Joining the discussion, a thoughtful fan advised: "You managed through the worst part. I will put Trigger List in case you want to check out / be prepared for more triggering scenes."

Echoing the sentiments, another individual contributed: "Unlike most people, I can't binge this show. I need to rest between episodes so as not to become depressed. It doesn't get much easier, but time between episodes helps."

Following the closure of Lionsgate+ in the UK, new episodes of Outlander will be available on Starz and to stream on Prime Video channel MGM+ from Sunday, November 22. You must be an Amazon Prime member before you can sign up for MGM+.

Outlander fans 'struggle to get past the doom' as they're left 'traumatised' by scenes

Outlander fans 'struggle to get past the doom' as they're left 'traumatised' by scenes

Outlander fans 'struggle to get past the doom' as they're left 'traumatised' by scenes

Outlander fans 'struggle to get past the doom' as they're left 'traumatised' by scenes

Outlander fans 'struggle to get past the doom' as they're left 'traumatised' by scenes