Benjamin Grey is a key character in the eighth and final season of Outlander, leaving fans curious about his identity.

The premiere episode of the concluding season of Outlander aired on Friday, March 6, in the US and Saturday, March 7, in the UK.

In the opening episode, Soul of a Rebel, William Ransom (portrayed by Charles Vandervaart) is devastated to discover that Benjamin Grey (Alex Bhat) succumbed to “jail fever” whilst incarcerated in a military prison.

Already grappling with his own demons at the onset of series eight, William spends most of his time drinking, wrestling with his identity and mourning the loss of Jane (Silvia Presente).

With the knowledge of Benjamin’s death, how will this additional loss affect William throughout the final series?

Benjamin Grey is the nephew of Lord John Grey in Outlander.(Image: MGM+)

Who is Benjamin Grey in Outlander?

Benjamin Grey is the nephew of Lord John Grey and the eldest son of John’s elder brother Hal Grey, the Duke of Pardloe.

Although William isn’t technically a member of the Grey family, being biologically the son of Jamie Fraser (Sam Heughan), he shared a close bond with Benjamin.

Growing up, Benjamin and his brother Henry Grey (Harry Jarvis) treated William as if he were part of their family, which explains why the latter was so distraught upon hearing of his death.

The shock for William isn’t solely due to Benjamin’s death.

Outlander season eight introduces Benjamin Grey’s widow Amaranthus Crowden.(Image: MGM+)

He also uncovers that a woman named Amaranthus (Carla Woodcock) has arrived at Lord John Grey’s (David Berry) residence, declaring herself to be Benjamin’s widow.

She further reveals they share a son named Trevor, though William initially remains sceptical, insisting that Lord Grey ought not to trust the “damn woman”.

Amaranthus catches wind of their conversation and departs in a huff, affronted by William’s remarks, but following John’s instruction that his step-son should make amends, the two reach an accord.

William makes his intentions plain that he would ensure Trevor’s wellbeing and happiness, whilst helping to preserve his father Benjamin’s memory.