Behind the Scenes of Outlander’s Graphic Medical Scenes
The Starz historical drama, Outlander, renowned for its depiction of 18th-century Scotland and early America, frequently features intense and visceral sequences. Actress Caitriona Balfe, who embodies Claire Fraser, is often at the center of these graphic medical scenarios. Questions have arisen regarding how Balfe navigates filming such explicit content, as highlighted by reports from the Scottish Daily Express.
Balfe’s Unfazed Demeanor on Set
In an episode of the official Outlander podcast, writer Anne Kenney and executive producer Ronald D. Moore discussed Balfe’s approach to these demanding scenes.
“Caitriona, I’ve never perceived her as squeamish regarding any of this material,” Kenney disclosed, noting that even the sight of “cooked rabbits” did not unsettle the actress, who hails from Belfast.
Moore concurred, affirming, “I don’t believe she is. I don’t think it poses any issue for her.”
He elaborated on Balfe’s initial exposure to the show’s more gruesome aspects: “Her very first day on set involved scenes in a World War II field hospital with open wounds, spurting blood, truly unpleasant material. I believe she adapted to it very rapidly.”
Filming Complexities of Visceral Content
The production team also addressed the challenges associated with filming these unsettling scenes. Kenney acknowledged they can be “tricky,” particularly when considering practical limitations, such as Balfe’s inability to perform procedures directly on another actor.
The acclaimed series employs varied filming techniques for medical procedures. Balfe sometimes interacts with co-stars bearing makeup effects, while close-up shots may utilize prosthetics, excluding the actor’s body from the frame.
Moore further revealed, “Certain shots are captured later. The insert shots focusing on the wounds themselves were filmed weeks afterward ā often employing stand-in hands rather than Caitriona’s.”
Anticipation for Outlander’s Final Season and Plot Developments
As fans eagerly await the premiere of Outlander‘s eighth and concluding season, anticipation is high for what is expected to be a season filled with dramatic moments.
Departing from Diana Gabaldon’s original Outlander novels, which serve as the basis for the series, the upcoming season is expected to feature unforeseen plot twists.
Surprising Storylines Ahead
One notable storyline involves the unexpected survival of Claire and Jamie Fraser’s (Sam Heughan) daughter, Faith, who tragically died at birth in season one.
In a significant divergence from the established narrative, viewers will discover that Master Raymond (Dominique Pinon) secretly transported the infant to a different time period, thus ensuring her survival.
Moreover, the final season aims to resolve the long-standing mystery surrounding Jamie’s apparition and his inexplicable presence in the 1940sāa paradox given his inability to time travel as a Highlander.
As the popular television adaptation approaches its conclusion, author Gabaldon continues to expand her extensive saga in the novels, hinting at further deviations in the narrative’s trajectory.
Outlander season 7 is available now on Digital and streaming on MGM+ via Prime Video.