Brianna’s Decision To Stay In The Past Explained By Outlander Star

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The possibility of time travel is a central theme of the show, and the characters constantly grapple with a difficult choice: remain in the past during the Revolutionary War, or return to their original time in the 1940s after World War II.

Brianna Fraser, like her mother Claire, can travel back to the 20th century using the standing stones, but it’s not an easy decision. Time travel is risky and requires magical gemstones for protection. More importantly, Brianna has created a new life and family with her husband, Roger MacKenzie, in the 18th century, making the thought of returning to her original time incredibly difficult. In the end, Brianna chose to remain in the past, becoming a vital and steadfast presence for the Fraser family.

Ahead of the eighth episode of the popular Starz show, ScreenRant’s Tatiana Hullender interviewed Sophie Skelton about her characters, Bri and Roger, and their choice to remain in the 18th century. Skelton also shared her thoughts on why the couple feels so at home in that time period.

You know, watching Sophie Skelton portray Brianna, it really struck me how powerfully she embodies the idea that ‘home is where the heart is.’ Given all the loss her character has experienced across the different time periods, and especially with the heartbreaking death of Fergus in this season, it’s clear that family is everything to Brianna. Skelton really sells that emotional weight, making it the core of her performance and driving her character’s motivations.

Bri understands that returning would mean leaving Roger with very little support, potentially causing long-term difficulties for their family.

As a critic, I found Sophie Skelton’s insights into her character’s motivations particularly compelling. She really articulated the layers of protection at play in that heartbreaking scene. It wasn’t just about her own safety, but about ensuring Roger wouldn’t be utterly alone if something happened to her. She understands him so well – perhaps better than he understands himself – and fears his potential to simply walk away if devastated. It’s a mother’s instinct, really, wanting to safeguard her children and her husband. She’s essentially pleading with him to lean on their family, to let them be a support system for both him and the kids, and to allow her memory to live on through those connections. It’s a beautifully nuanced performance, and Skelton’s explanation really highlights the selflessness driving her character’s final request – a promise that he’ll take care of himself and their family, even after she’s gone.

Brianna proved she made the right decision by staying with her family. She’s been a constant support to her siblings, helping them with everything from figuring out who they are to coping with the loss of Fergus.

Sophie Skelton believes a central theme of Brianna’s character this season is her role as the family’s emotional anchor. Whether she’s actively involved in events or patiently waiting at home, as seen in episodes five and six, Brianna provides stability and support. Skelton feels that, no matter what challenges arise, people will turn to Brianna for comfort and a sense of peace.

Episode 9 of Outlander airs Friday, May 8, at 8:00 p.m. ET on Starz.

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2026-04-30 00:48