The sweeping, dramatic landscapes of the Scottish Highlands have been the backdrop for an epic tale of love, loss, and time travel for over a decade. For the cast and crew of Outlander, a show that has captivated audiences worldwide, the final curtain is about to fall on its eighth season. Among those bidding farewell is Australian actor David Berry, who has embodied the complex and beloved character of Lord John Grey since 2017.
For Berry, the conclusion of Outlander marks the end of a significant chapter, one that has taken him across continents and immersed him in a world of historical detail and passionate storytelling. Based on the bestselling novels by Diana Gabaldon, the series, set primarily in the 1700s, has forged a deep connection with its fans, who eagerly dissect every plot twist and speculate on the ultimate fate of Jamie and Claire, the enduring heart of the show, portrayed by Sam Heughan and Caitríona Balfe respectively.
A Return to Roots and Family
While the allure of 18th-century Scotland has been a powerful draw, the conclusion of filming has allowed David Berry to focus on what truly matters: his family. After years spent away from home, the 42-year-old actor has returned to Australia, embracing the opportunity to be present for his son, Alexander.
“We wrapped the show last year, and I’ve been concentrating on family and being a dad,” Berry shared. “Obviously, the show took me away from my family for quite some time, and it’s important to me to be there for the things that I missed. It’s been wonderful to be able to do that.”
Though the mature themes of Outlander mean it’s not yet suitable viewing for his eight-year-old son, Berry was thrilled that Alexander had the chance to visit Scotland during production. “He came to Scotland, and we visited Stirling Castle and parts of the Highlands, and that’s one of the main attractions of the show,” he explained. “The period detail is incredible in this show, but to be honest, it’s better appreciated more by the fans than my son – he cares a lot more about Pokémon right now! Maybe when his tastes mature, he’ll come to see Dad as a bit cooler than I am right now.”
The Enduring Legacy of Lord John Grey
As season eight brings Lord John Grey’s compelling narrative arc to a close, David Berry reflects on the character’s profound journey. Lord John, a high-ranking aristocrat harbouring a secret love for Jamie Fraser, has navigated a path fraught with internal conflict and external challenges. Berry views his portrayal of this nuanced character as a privilege.
“John starts in a very uncertain place and is disillusioned with the world, then he finds a purpose through the Frasers that turns his life upside down,” Berry stated. “There’s a huge growth in character. And then by the end of it – I was just about to say something that might have spoiled the final season! – but there’s another layer to him.”
The actor remained tight-lipped about specific plot points concerning Lord John’s fate in the upcoming finale, particularly whether he would face a dramatic encounter with death, a common occurrence for many characters in the Outlander universe. His response was characteristically enigmatic: “I can’t tell you whether he lives or dies, but Lord John will live on forever,” he said with a smile.
A Complicated Friendship and Lasting Bonds
Berry did, however, offer a glimpse into the complex dynamic between Lord John and Jamie Fraser as the series draws to a close. Their friendship, already strained by past events and Lord John’s unspoken affections, faces further challenges. “They’re certainly not friends at this point, and a lot of healing needs to happen for that friendship to ever occur again,” Berry teased.
Beyond the on-screen relationships, David Berry cherishes the deep connections forged with his fellow cast and crew members. Over their years working together, many have experienced significant life milestones, from marriages to the birth of children. This shared experience has cultivated a familial bond that transcends the demands of production.
“There’s been a lot of life changes; the cast have been through marriages and kids born. We’ve been together a long time,” Berry remarked. “It’s been a great privilege to live with these characters and act with this wonderful cast and crew. We’ve become like family. And whilst I may not see them as often as I used to, they’ll always be part of my life. We don’t always see our family, but they’re with us all the time. I’m so lucky to have been part of it with them.”
The enduring appeal of Outlander as a cultural phenomenon is undeniable, and for David Berry, the experience of being a part of it has left an indelible mark.
Looking Ahead
As fans prepare to say goodbye to the world of Outlander for good, the legacy of its intricate storytelling, passionate characters, and breathtaking scenery will undoubtedly continue to resonate. The final season promises to deliver the emotional closure that audiences have come to expect from this beloved series.
