*Warning – This article contains minor spoilers for Outlander season 7b.*
fans have swarmed social platforms to air their thoughts about the long-awaited return of season 7, part 2. Whilst admirers of the epic were delighted to welcome the likes of Claire Fraser (Caitriona Balfe) and Jamie Fraser (Sam Heughan) back onto their screens, there remained the feeling that “something is missing”.
The fanbase seems split over the new star stepping into the shoes of Jenny Murray, Jamie’s elder sibling. Laura Donnelly left an indelible mark as Jenny, capturing hearts in the role, yet she had been absent since the days of season 3.
This chapter, however, sees Jenny’s return, and she is now portrayed by Kristin Atherton. Despite Atherton’s clear skills, fans grapple with this change, with some voicing their disconcertment over the transition.
Viewers took to X, the platform once known as , to voice their unease over the change in casting, reports .
Outlander season 7b is here (Image: STARZ)
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One fan confessed: “The different actress playing Jenny in outlander season 7 is throwing me off.”
Another offered: “Nothing against new Jenny but the reunion definitely didn’t hit as hard with it being a new actress.”
A fellow viewer questioned: “Anyone else having a really hard time trying to choke down Jenny’s replacement? She’s just missing the essence that is Jenny.
“Not saying the new actress is necessarily bad at acting, she’s just missing what makes Jenny… Jenny.”
Kristin Atherton has taken over as Jenny (Image: STARZ)
Grieving fans expressed their yearning for the original portrayal, with one noting: “I miss old Jenny.” While another said: “I feel [the] Jenny played by Laura Donnelly was special. When an actor brings a character to life and makes you believe, it’s hard to replace them.”
On the flip side, there has been vocal support for the new actress’ take on the role, as enthusiasts assert: “Some big shoes to fill but the new actress has done an excellent job filling them!”
Echoing this positivity, a viewer added: “I think New Jenny deserves a chance she sounded like old Jenny but give the actress a chance.” (sic)
Laura Donnelly played the original Jenny (Image: STARZ)
Laura Donnelly won hearts portraying Jenny in Outlander’s first three series but ceased to appear post her character’s move from Scotland with the leads.
Donnelly’s bustling agenda, featuring commendable HBO’s The Nevers performances and Broadway appearances in The Ferryman and The Hills of California, prevented her return to the show.
Fans now hope Atherton will seamlessly usher in Jenny’s continued saga in forthcoming seasons.
The first episode of Outlander season 7b is available on Starz and to stream on Prime Video channel MGM+.You must be an Amazon Prime member before you can sign up for MGM+.