As a dedicated Outlander enthusiast who has journeyed through time alongside Claire and Jamie since the very beginning, I find myself at a crossroads, much like our beloved characters often are. The recent departure of Jenny from the TV series, deviating significantly from Diana Gabaldon’s original tale, leaves me somewhat bewildered and longing for more of the Fraser clan’s adventures.
Following Ian’s passing in the tenth episode of Outlander season 7, Jamie requested Jenny to join him in America. However, she chose not to accept his offer, creating a significant departure from the original storyline as depicted in the novels.
In the Outlander series, it’s Jenny who proposes to Jamie that she might accompany him to America. With no ties left in Lallybroch for her, she wishes to be near Young Ian and his kin. Naturally, Jamie is delighted at the prospect of Jenny joining him in America and on Fraser’s Ridge.
The TV series made a significant shift regarding this matter – it seems Jenny won’t be traveling to America after all. It could be that Jamie is not aboard the ship due to Jenny changing her mind, but according to recent interviews, it appears Jenny has chosen to remain in Scotland at Lallybroch for the time being.
Why would the Outlander TV series change Jenny’s storyline so much?
I can think of one way to rephrase this in a more natural and easy-to-understand manner: There are a couple of explanations for why the show might be altering this aspect. One possibility is because of the cast change. It’s plausible that the production team was worried about how viewers would react to a new actress taking on the role, so instead of having Jenny appear throughout seasons 7 and 8 of Outlander, they might have chosen to eliminate those scenes altogether.
Instead, it seems that the acceptance or rejection of the new actress is more related to time, cost, and their previous attachment rather than the risk posed by a fresh face like Kristin Atherton. Fortunately, most fans have been accepting towards her, with some regrettable exceptions who exhibit toxic behavior. Remarkably, despite their disappointment, many fans have maintained an open-minded attitude towards the new actress.
As a devoted fan, I can see why they’re holding off on introducing another main character. With each passing book, it seems Jenny’s role becomes more significant, particularly in “Written in My Own Heart’s Blood” and “Go Tell the Bees That I Am Gone”. Given that there’s a good chance she’ll continue to be a focal point in the 10th book currently being penned, it makes sense they want to focus on her storylines. The series is already brimming with narratives, and adding yet another that doesn’t align with the ongoing story arcs might just tip the scale into overload.
Beyond the existing expenses, including another actor permanently on set would further escalate the cost. Already straining financially, the production aims to restrict spending as much as possible. There are other plotlines that take precedence, necessitating the presence of additional actors. Due to budget constraints and the importance of these other storylines, Jenny’s character may not have been considered essential.
It’s unfortunate, yet it aligns with the show’s narrative, that Ian’s death in Outlander season 7 was significant for wrapping up Lallybroch’s storylines. Following this, it could be argued that Jenny might not be necessary anymore – even though I would have enjoyed seeing more of Atherton in the role.
Outlander airs on Fridays on STARZ.
Stay up to date with the latest Outlander news with Claire and Jamie.
Read More
Sorry. No data so far.
2024-12-06 18:37