Jamie Fraser, played by Scots star Sam Heughan, and his loving wife Claire, portrayed by Caitriona Balfe, were last seen heading back to Scotland having become embroiled in the American Revolution. It has already been confirmed that season eight of the drama, based on the novels by Diana Gabaldon, will be the last installment as it brings the story to its conclusion.

The growing popularity of Heughan, 45, and Balfe, 46, has played a part in the decision to bring things to a conclusion before Gabaldon completes her own story in written form. The pair are now recognisable stars who will want to stretch their acting wings in the coming years.

Heughan has already bagged a variety of roles in films and TV dramas, such as Channel 4’s The Couple Next Door, while Dublin-born Balfe’s performance in Oscar-winning Belfast was lauded by critics. With prestigious screen credits behind them, both have notched up a considerable net worth over the years – but one star’s wealth outshines the other.

According to Celebrity Net Worth website, Heughan is worth an estimated $5 million, almost £4m. In contrast, Balfe as an estimated net worth of $4m the equivalent of just over £3m – 20% less than Heughan.

The discrepancy is likely explained by Dumfries and Galloway-born Heughan’s business ventures. As well as his screen roles, the actor runs a successful drinks business, launching the award-winning Sassenach whisky in 2020. He has since released his own range of gins and co-authored two books with fellow Outlander star Graham McTavish.

Sam Heughan launched his own brand of whisky(Image: Sam Heughan)

He lives in a £1m remodeled farmhouse on the outskirts of Glasgow. He has previously hinted that juggling his various ventures have prevented him from finding love, saying; “Relationships are hard when you’re working in Scotland 10 months a year. I travel a lot and any downtime I have, I’m trying to do other projects, so very much, my career comes first.”